More than 30,000 spectators celebrated Native American music, art, and dancing at the 35th Annual Morongo Thunder & Lightning Powwow, held September 25–27 at the Morongo Indian Reservation in Banning, California.
Recognized as one of the nation’s premier powwows, the Morongo Powwow kicked off on California Native American Day, drawing more than 900 dancers and 20 drum groups from across the U.S. and Canada. Admission to the family-friendly powwow was free.
Throughout the weekend, dancers wearing intricate, handcrafted regalia of leather, fine beadwork, and brightly colored feathers competed in a variety of events showcasing the diversity of Native American dance styles from across North America. Visitors also experienced traditional drumming and Bird Singing, honoring ancient songs that have been passed down through generations and remain a vital expression of tribal heritage and identity.
“The Morongo Powwow allows us to share Native American culture and heritage with guests from across the globe,” said Morongo Tribal Chairman Charles Martin. “At its heart, the Thunder & Lightning Powwow is about renewing our commitment to our traditions and about making sure our culture, our heritage and our values continue to live on through our young people.”
The highlight of each day, the Grand Entry drew hundreds of dancers dressed in traditional regalia into the powwow arena for a remarkable display of music and motion as men, women and children of all ages danced together to the music of drum groups and singers.
The Powwow also included traditional bird singing and peon games of the Morongo Band of Mission Indians and other tribes in Southern California.
More than 115 vendors participated in the Morongo Indian Market, where artists offered authentic Native American crafts for sale, such as handmade baskets, beadwork, clothing, jewelry, and pottery.
Native food vendors served traditional homemade delicacies, such as Indian tacos and tasty Indian frybread.
