Nanticoke Indian powwow to carry on cultural traditions

Changing Tides is the theme for the Nanticoke Indian Tribe’s 46th Annual Powwow, set for 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 7 and 8, at Hudson Fields, 30045 Eagle Crest Road, Milton. Parking is free.

Powwow drummers and singers provide the music to which Native American dancers move in cultural celebration of their heritage. 

As emcee, Keith Colston will help spectators understand the program while encouraging the dancers and drummers. Coston will be assisted by Urie Ridgeway, the arena director whose responsibility is to organize the dancers and maintain the dance arena or circle. 

Entrance fees are $10 for adults, $5 for ages 11-17, and free for children 10 and under.

Vendors for food, music, jewelry, souvenirs, arts and crafts, beadwork, leather and regalia supplies are expected. A kids’ corner will offer face painting and make-and-take crafts. 

Shuttles will be available in the parking lot to bring people to the entrance both days. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs to enjoy the entertainment.

No alcohol, no smoking and no drugs are permitted. Pets are prohibited except for service animals displaying proper credentials. 

The Nanticoke Indians are the native people of lower Delaware. The first European contact with the Nanticoke Tribe was recorded by Capt. John Smith in 1608 when he was exploring the Chesapeake Bay and sailed up what is known today as the Nanticoke River.

Today, there are about 700 members of the Nanticoke Indian Association and more than 2,000 people who can trace their heritage back to the tribe.

For more information, go to NanticokeIndians.org.