Cherokee Blog

While the Eastern Band of Cherokee Nation Powwow organizers have made the difficult decision to postpone the annual powwow that usually takes place over the 4th of July weekend, we still want to celebrate the spirit of this amazing event. Cherokee's annual 4th of July Powwow—which is one of the biggest powwows on the East Coast—typically takes place over three days and attracts people from around the world for dancing and drumming competitions, tribal regalia, crafts, food, and fireworks. 

Both a physical and spiritual journey, the annual Remember the Removal Bike Ride (RTR) follows 950+ miles on the northern route of the Trail of Tears over a span of three weeks. For the riders, the event is a transformational experience. The 2020 ride has been cancelled due to COVID-19. Riders reflect on what the ride means to them.  

Even though the production of Unto These Hills is cancelled this year due to COVID-19, 2020 still marks 70 years of celebrating Unto These Hills. As one of the oldest running outdoor dramas in the United States, Unto These Hills remains one of the most popular and beloved attractions in Cherokee. For many of the actors and staff of Unto These Hills, being a part of the production has changed their lives.

For Cherokee dance instructor JaTanna Feather, 33, dance keeps her connected to the future as well as the past. She is the owner and lead teacher of Kanohesgi Storyteller Dancers, a nonprofit organization that teaches Cherokee children as young as four how to dance in the traditional Cherokee style and compete in powwows across the nation. 

We invite you to share your favorite photos and memories of time spent in Cherokee as part of a Cherokee Memories Contest. As a thank you, we’ll select one winner to receive $100 to the online gift shop of the Museum of the Cherokee Indian. Read on for how to enter!