Native American Encampment
Members of the Utenin Diahoga Tribe in Tioga County will be on hand to talk about Native American ways, including how their ancestors cooked using fire (not directly over the fire, but by using a trench system), and the art of making drums. A special story telling time is also on the schedule right at the Encampment for kids of all ages to enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions about Native Americans:
Q. What is a Pow Wow?
A. A pow-wow is often set up as a series of large circles. The center circle is the dance arena, outside of which is a larger circle consisting of the MC's table, drum groups, and sitting areas for dancers and their families. Beyond these two circles for participants is an area for spectators, while outside of all are designated areas with vendor's booths, where one can buy food (including frybread and Indian tacos), music, jewelry, souvenirs, arts and crafts, beadwork, leather, and regalia supplies.
At outdoor pow-wows, this circle is often covered by either a committee-built arbor or tent, or each group, particularly the MC and the drums, will provide their own. While most of the time, a tent provides shelter from the sun, rain can also plague outdoor events. It is particularly important to protect the drums used by the drum groups, as they are sensitive to temperature changes and, if it rains, they cannot get wet. Most vendors provide their own tents or shelters at an outdoor pow-wow.
