Hendricks County will once again host one of the nation’s biggest events promoting awareness and education of the American Indian culture.

National Powwow XVII, which has been held every three years since its inception in 1969, returns to Danville July 6-9 at the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds and Conference Complex. The four-day event introduces visitors to a cultural experience filled with traditional singing and dancers in full regalia, primitive skills demonstrations, a living history tipi village, ethnic foods, crafts, artisans, kids’ activities and so much more.

“We are so glad to be back in Hendricks County again,” said Jeff Brewer, festival organizer. “We are excited to showcase the current styles of dance while also celebrating American Indian history and culture.”

The powwow, which debuted in Danville in the summer of 2011 after previous stops in Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri and Tipton, Ind., attracted more than 850 participants and 2,000 visitors to Hendricks County. Brewer said he hopes to see those numbers increase this year with its return to the same location. Organizers also are expecting about 100 vendors at the event, whose wares will include American Indian jewelry, musical instruments, art and crafts.

Gates open at 8:30 a.m. daily. A full schedule of festivities continues throughout all four days, transforming the 110-acre fairgrounds into an American Indian experience with something of interest for everyone in the family. Participants will come from all over the country and even Canada to provide daily activities such as educational seminars focusing on tribal customs and history and various craft instruction. Highlights of the event include a special dance to honor Veterans on July 7, a children’s powwow and a national craft contest on July 8, the crowning of the National Powwow princess, and many other interactive activities designed to educate and entertain visitors.

“We are thrilled to have National Powwow here in Hendricks County for a third consecutive time as the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds & Conference Complex has proven to be a perfect setting for that event,” said Jaime Bohler Smith, executive director of Visit Hendricks County. “With the thousands of visitors and participants expected to attend who stay, eat, shop and dine in our communities, this is one of those activities that leaves a lasting economic impact while enhancing the quality of life in our area.”

• Thursday, July 6 – Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts in uniform.
• Friday, July 7 – Servicemen including Active Duty Military, Veterans, EMS, Police and Fire Services with identification.
• Saturday, July 8 – 4-H members.
• Sunday, July 9 – Hendricks County residents.