New Gorge Festival of Nations Launches This June
From Columbia Gorge Tourism Alliance:
Native American dancers at Festival of Nations
Photo by Ben McCarty
By Emily Reed
Hood River, Ore., May 23, 2024 — The Gorge Festival of Nations Committee, comprised of representatives from the tribes of the Columbia River Gorge, is excited to announce the Gorge Festival of Nations, a one-day cultural celebration on June 15, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in Cascade Locks, OR.
This event offers a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant cultures, traditions, and histories of the tribes of the Columbia River Gorge with a focus on raising awareness of salmon and river restoration. Attendees will enjoy a day of educational and family-friendly activities, exploring traditional and contemporary arts, crafts, music, dance, and cuisine.
Event Highlights Include:
● Pow Wow with Grand Entry at 5:00 PM: Witness the grandeur of a traditional pow wow, featuring a grand entry at 5:00 PM, with youth dancers in full regalia performing to the rhythm of the drums.
● Dance Performances: Enjoy mesmerizing dance performances by members of Little Swans and other youth from the Confederated Tribes of the Columbia River Gorge showcasing traditional regalia and ceremonial movements.
● Salmon Bake; Food Vendors: Savor the taste of delicious salmon (limited supplies), as well as the flavors of traditional and contemporary dishes, with food vendors offering Native American fry bread, indian tacos, and huckleberry shortcake.
● Artisan Market: Discover and purchase unique beadwork & regalia, handicrafts, artworks, and photography directly from talented Native American artisans.
● Storytelling: Immerse yourself in the rich oral traditions through talks led by river chiefs and respected elders.
● Live Traditional Demonstrations: Exhibits facilitated by skilled artisans including first foods, basket weaving, fish net creation, salmon baking, stick games, and more.
● Bouncy Castles: Kids can enjoy fun-filled activities in the bouncy castles, ensuring a memorable day for the whole family.
Celebrate the Culture, Heritage, and Future of the Native Communities of the Columbia River Gorge: This event is based on the original Festival of Nations event (2005-2010) and has plans to continue annually with a focus on raising awareness of salmon and river restoration. Proceeds will support Gorge Native Youth programs.
“We are honored to partner with the tribes of the Columbia River Gorge to bring this cultural celebration to life,” said Buck Jones, Salmon Marketing Specialist, Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission. “This festival is a wonderful opportunity for attendees to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the diverse traditions that enrich our community and of our connection to the river.”
The Gorge Festival of Nations is committed to fostering cultural exchange and understanding. This event is open to the public, and all are welcome to join in the celebration. Admission is free. Proceeds and donations will support Gorge Native Youth programs.
For more information about the Gorge Festival of Nations, please visit our website at www.gorgefestivalofnations.com or contact Emily Reed at (503) 360-3532 or emily@columbiagorgetourismalliance.org.
About the Gorge Festival of Nations Committee:
The Gorge Festival of Nations Committee is composed of representatives from the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs, Yakama Nation, Nez Perce Tribe, and the Confederated Tribes of Umatilla Indian Reservation. It is dedicated to promoting cultural diversity and understanding through community events and educational programs. Our mission is to celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures that make up our region and to provide opportunities for native youth in the Columbia River Gorge.
Additional sponsors include Travel Oregon, Friends of the Gorge, Cascade Locks Tourism Committee, Port of Cascade Locks, Oregon Parks and Recreation, Experience Mt Hood and the Gorge, and Brigham Fish. Further sponsors and donations are welcome, please contact emily@columbiagorgetourismalliance.org for more information.
Cascade Locks Marina Cascade Locks, OR, 97014 www.gorgefestivalofnations.com
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