Cherokee Blog

The sound of Mother Earth’s heartbeat, the drum is a powerful instrument in Native American rituals and ceremonies. Rhythmic beats provide the soundtrack for the 42nd annual 4th of July Powwow in Cherokee, which runs Friday through Sunday, June 30 through July 2, in Cherokee, NC.

Gather around the Cherokee Bonfire and listen to unique stories told by Cherokee tellers at the Oconaluftee Island Park on Friday and Saturday from 7 to 9 pm during the spring and fall. This free, family-friendly outdoor event series takes place at the Oconaluftee Island Park in a beautiful, natural setting under the stars. It's a beloved Cherokee tradition, and not to be missed! 

More than a dozen acclaimed musicians from all over the world will converge in Cherokee, North Carolina, June 8–10 for the 2017 Cherokee Bluegrass Festival. It won’t just be adults having all the fun. Children are also encouraged to attend.

On Saturday, June 10, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, the Cherokee Voices Festival will take place at The Museum of the Cherokee Indian in Cherokee, NC. Free and open to the public, the Festival began 20 years ago with a vision to celebrate and uphold traditional Cherokee art forms through the master artists living today. This year's theme is “passing the knowledge to the rising generation,” and the festival will feature many young Cherokee performers, artists, and demonstrators as well.

(Artist, Suzi Nonn of Naturally Yours)

In 2002, beloved gourd artist Jerry Lewis of California founded the first Gourd Gathering in Cherokee, NC, as an opportunity for fellow craftspeople to meet and share their methods. Over the years, it became known as a “reunion” among guests. When Jerry passed away, new coordinators stepped up to ensure that the event carried on and was successful.

Today, the annual Gourd Gathering at Cherokee continues to bring people from all over the country together. The next event will take place Thursday through Sunday, June 1–4, 2017. Entry is free, while classes vary in costs.

Artists and enthusiasts alike may see gourds in a whole new light. Gourd artists meet for four days to exchange ideas...