46th Annual 4th of July Powwow with Fireworks on July 4

With last year’s powwow being cancelled due to COVID, we are thrilled to gather again this year, with our “powwow family,” and visitors from all over the world, for the 46th annual 4th of July Powwow, taking place over three days, from Friday, July 2 to Sunday, July 4, only in Cherokee, NC. 

The amazing Powwow fireworks show will light up the skies over the Cherokee Acquoni Expo Center on July 4th at sunset. 

If you've never been to a powwow before, it's a unique chance to experience authentic Indian culture in a fun, family-friendly event. The annual Cherokee Powwow is the biggest in the southeast, and you’ll have the chance of a lifetime to see some of the most talented Native American dancers, drummers, and singers perform. 

(Photo by Kristy Herron)

Dance competitions kick off the excitement with over $150,000 in prize money! See a variety of contests and dance styles, with native dancers from different tribes competing against each other within a wide range of age categories, from 0-5 (Tiny Tots) to 55 and older (Golden Age).

Everyone is invited to the Cherokee Powwow to hear, watch, enjoy, and learn about Native American cultures in the beautiful Smoky Mountains of North Carolina.

"It's the good spirit you have in the powwow that brings everyone together," says organizer Daniel Tramper. "It's a celebration of life." 

Craft and Food Vendors

Several favorite local Cherokee food vendors will be on hand alongside vendors from other tribes. You will also have the opportunity to shop for authentic crafts made by Indigenous artists. Bone and shell crafts, pottery, beadwork, weaving, carving, and an array of other traditional crafts will be offered for sale by artisans from various nations.

Fireworks

Daniel promises that this year the Powwow fireworks will be one of the best displays found anywhere in Western North Carolina. The fireworks will begin about 10 p.m. on Saturday night (July 3).

(Photo by Kristy Herron)

Tips for Enjoying the Powwow

Parking is free, but on a first-come, first-served basis. Carpooling is encouraged.

There will be bleachers for Powwow seating, but you are welcome to bring a lawn chair.

Ask permission before taking photographs of dancers in their regalia. “Different tribes have different beliefs. It is just polite to ask,” says Daniel. Most of the dancers will be more than willing to talk to you about their culture if you ask them.

Event Dates and Times

Friday, July 2 - gates open at 5 p.m. ending at 10:30 p.m.

Saturday, July 3  - gates open at 12:00 p.m. 

Sunday, July 4 - gates open at 12:00 p.m. Contest winners announced at 6 p.m. Fireworks start at 10 p.m.

(Photo by Kristy Herron)

Ticket Info

Tickets are $15.00 per day. This is a cash only event! Bring cash to purchase tickets at the gate the day of the event. Children 6 and under are free.

Location

Cherokee Acquoni Expo Center, 1501 Acquoni Road in Cherokee, NC 28719

Schedule

Come to the 4th of July Powwow to see for yourself why the Cherokee Powwow has become a beloved annual tradition for so many. See the full schedule of events here.