Native America celebrates itself

By chance, we had read that the big "Gathering of Nations" would take place in Albuquerque next weekend. It is the largest Powwow in the USA. So a celebration where the different tribes come together, celebrate, sing, present themselves, dance and, in modern terms, network. I have always wanted to see such a festival on our trip and now the largest one is practically on our doorstep. A great opportunity. So we took a little detour via Albuquerque and stayed there for two days. What can I say, it was definitely worth it!

Around the event hall, there were of course food stalls with Native American food, but that was not a highlight. And sales stands for beads, feathers, jewelry and whatever the modern Indian needs. And many references to health programs and addiction counseling, because even today, a lot of drinking, drug taking, and domestic violence occurs in the reservations. The suicide rate is 5 times higher than in other American groups.

Approximately 3000 registered dancers participated. The entrance into the hall accompanied by drums and singing was unique. Then followed the dance competitions. Very interesting, even if we didn't understand the rules. Open Bar, it depends on the footwork and ending exactly with the last drum beat. That is difficult, especially for the men, who move very fast and wildly. Costumes and dances changed constantly. It was also nice that there were many children and youth groups. In the audience stands, people put on makeup, changed clothes, fastened feathers, styled hair, and braided braids. In between, all the little and big Winnetous looked at their smartphones 🤳 😄

The photos are mostly not sharp, but I will still post them so that you get an impression. It was a great opportunity to get a small insight into the culture of the Native Americans.