Dancers and regalia put the wow in Seafair pow wow

Native American song, dance, arts, traditional crafts and food by communities in the Northwest and from around the country highlight the Seafair Indian Days Pow Wow this weekend on the scenic grounds of the Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center in Seattle's Discovery Park.

"The pow wow is a social gathering, an annual highlight for us and a chance to share our culture. It's a very welcoming event for everyone," says Nicole Adams, program director for United Indians of All Tribes Foundation, which hosts the event.

The grand entry, a procession pageant with honor guard of distinguished guests and dancers in regalia, highlights each day's events. In the long history of Native Americans, pow wows are relatively recent events, celebrated with regional variations around the United States and drawing families who travel the "Pow Wow Highway" to events around the country. Drum groups provide the pow wow's "heartbeat" during songs and dancing.

Dance competitions in categories including men's and women's traditional, men and women's fancy dance, men's grass dance and women's jingle are judged on dance technique and regalia style. Dancers' regalia are often ornate, one-of-a-kind works of art with beadwork reflecting regional styles. An emcee/announcer hosts each day, sharing information on events throughout the festival.

Fry bread and a traditional salmon bake are among popular food offerings by festival vendors. Vendor also offer Native arts and crafts and souvenirs.

Friday is Family Night, with admission by donation only that day. Admission is free for children all weekend.

The details

Time: 4-10 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday; grand entry, 7 p.m. Friday; 1 and 7 p.m. Saturday; 1 p.m. Sunday.

Cost: Free, though a donation is suggested, Friday only. $5/person Saturday-Sunday; ages 12 and younger free.

Location: Daybreak Star Cultural Center, Discovery Park, 3801 W. Government Way, Seattle.

Getting there: From 15th Avenue West, take the Dravus Street exit. Go west on Dravus, then right onto 20th Avenue West, which becomes Gilman Avenue West, then West Government Way; follow to the east entrance of the park. Follow signs to Daybreak Star Cultural Center. Ample free parking available.

Metro Transit information: 206-553-3000 or tripplanner.metrokc.gov.

More information: 206-285-4425 or unitedindians.org.

Madeline McKenzie: 206-464-8245 or mmckenzie@seattletimes.com