Starting Friday, July 28 through Sunday, July 30, Queens County Farm Museum’s "Thunderbird American Indian Powwow" presented in partnership with the Thunderbird American Indian Dancers, is back for its 44th year.

Queens County Farm Museum is the longest running presenter of Native American arts and culture in New York City. This year, the Thunderbird American Indian Powwow will feature

• Three days of intertribal dance competitions
• A Native American Craft and Food Market
• Two evening programs culminating in a bonfire at dusk welcoming the audience into the dance circle.

Over forty Indian Nations will be represented at this three-day program including Hopi, Winnebago, Cherokee, Kiowa, Lakota, Navajo, Santo Domingo, Taino, Matinecock, Shinnecock, San Blas Kuna, Rappahanock, Choctaw, Osage, and Delaware Nations.

Food and Craft Market

In addition to dance demonstrations and competitions, the Thunderbird American Indian Powwow will host a one-of-a-kind food and craft market featuring Native American vendors.

A signature dish not to be missed is the native fry bread, a traditional plate of deep-fried confection that is enjoyed by many Native communities in various forms. Additional fare includes smoked meats plus local fish and seafood from local tribes.

The Native American Food and Craft Market features over 15 North and Central American vendors specializing in food, traditional handcraft, artisanal instruments and drums, wampum, modern and vintage jewelry, ceramics, stones and crystals, beadwork, and textiles such as woven garments and embroidery.

Powwows

“Most people think of Native American culture as a thing of the past,” said Louis Mofsie, Director of the Thunderbird American Indian Dancers. “This Powwow showcases a living, developing culture. This is a wonderfully educational and entertaining cultural event.”

Native American powwows are significant cultural gatherings that hold deep meaning for indigenous communities. They serve as a vibrant celebration of Native American traditions, heritage, and values, while also providing an opportunity for intertribal connections and cultural exchange.

Powwows have evolved over time and vary among different tribes, but they generally share common elements that highlight the richness of indigenous cultures. The modern powwow, developed after the institution of the Reservation System, is derived from the Plains Indians Dance gatherings and primarily features dance styles developed in the Plains.

Tickets

Admission to Queens County Farm Museum is free, but tickets are required to attend the Powwow and the Native American Craft and Food Market.

Tickets to view the dance competitions are $12–$18. Three-day passes are available for $24–$36.

Tickets can be purchased online at - www.queensfarm.org