SALAMANCA, N.Y. – A nationwide and international audience will once again convene in Salamanca for one of the most grand and enthusiastic celebrations of Native American culture.
The 2016 Marvin “Joe” Curry Veterans Pow Wow will take place at Veterans Park from today through Sunday. The annual three-day event will feature a series of dance and drum competitions, including what is billed as North America’s biggest Smoke Dance contest, with competitors coming from across the United States and Canada.
More than $100,000 in prize money will be awarded during the Pow Wow.
The Pow Wow is named in honor of Marvin “Joe” Curry, a member of the Seneca Nation of Indians’ Snipe Clan, who led a long and distinguished career of military service in the United States Navy. He was a strong advocate of veterans’ causes who served the United States and the Seneca Nation of Indians with pride and valor throughout his life. Curry passed away in 2010.
“The Pow Wow holds special meaning for us because, along with celebrating our Native culture and traditions for people and tribes from across Indian Country, we are also celebrating the spirit of our dear friend, brother and role model, Joe Curry,” said Seneca Nation of Indians President Maurice A. John Sr.
Grand entry is scheduled at 7 p.m. on Friday. Grand entry begins at noon and 7 p.m. on Saturday and at noon on Sunday. Gates will open at 10 a.m. Winners will be announced on Sunday evening, before the conclusion of the Pow Wow.
On Friday, admission is free. Daily admission is $10 for adults and two-day passes are available for $15. Admission for students age 5-17 and seniors age 60 and older is $5. Veterans and military personnel (with valid ID) and children age 4 and younger will be admitted free of charge.
Native crafts, artwork and food will be available from a wide variety of vendors.
Contests will feature several dance styles from various tribes attending the event, including Salamanca’s own Iroquois Smoke dance, as well as Fancy Dance, Grass Dance, Traditional Dance and Jingle Dance.
Along with the drum group singing competition there will also be many special competitions, including Women’s Traditional 2nd Style Song, Men’s Original Style, Hand Drum and Songbird Special.
The Marvin “Joe” Curry Veterans Pow Wow is being sponsored by the Seneca Nation of Indians, Seneca Nation Veterans Iroquois Post #1587, Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino, and local businesses.
For a complete schedule, registration and other information, visit www.SenecaPowWow.org or call 716-532-8333.
