Many different Tribal nations will be represented at the annual Nesika Illahee Pow-Wow on Aug. 7-9, 2009, in Siletz, Ore., held by the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. The public is invited to attend this family-friendly event, a tradition for the Siletz people and other American Indians. All events, except the parade, take place at the Pauline Ricks Memorial Pow-Wow Grounds on Government Hill in Siletz. A variety of food and Native arts and crafts and jewelry will be offered for sale by more than 50 vendors on the pow-wow grounds. This alcohol-free and drug-free event is free. Listen carefully to the pow-wow announcer, who will tell you when you can and when you should not take photos. The announcer also will explain the significance of the events taking place in the dance arena throughout the pow-wow.

The celebration will start with the crowning of the 2009-2010 Siletz Royalty on Aug. 7 at 6 p.m. All dance styles will enter the arena at 7 p.m. during the first Grand Entry. Dances in which the public can participate that are non-competitive will follow the Grand Entry.

A parade winds through downtown Siletz at 10 a.m. on Aug. 8. This hometown event includes Tribal royalty, drummers, dancers, equestrian units, vintage cars and floats. Pre-registration is available by accessing a registration form on the Tribe’s website at www.ctsi.nsn.us; picking one up at the Siletz Tribal administration building, 201 SE Swan Ave. in Siletz; or by contacting Mona Fisher at 541-444-1230 or 800-922-1399, ext. 1230. Registration also is available the morning of the parade at 8 a.m. at the Siletz Tribal administration building. If you are not registered by 9 a.m., you cannot take part in the judging, which starts at 9 a.m. You can, however, still participate in the parade.

The parade is followed by a Grand Entry at 1 p.m. Competition dancing for youth and teens takes place in the afternoon. Competition dancing continues after the 7 p.m. Grand Entry with Golden Age and adult categories and the finals for youth and teens. On Aug. 9, the final day of the pow-wow, a Grand Entry takes place at noon. This session will end with awards for the Golden Age, adult, teen, and youth category winners. Prizes range from $25 to $500.

A free shuttle will be available from various parking lots in Siletz to the pow-wow on Government Hill. Signs will be posted. Parking is extremely limited at the pow-wow grounds, which makes the shuttle the best way to get there.

For more information and to view a schedule of events, please visit http://www.ctsi.nsn.us/chinook-indian-tribe-siletz-heritage/pow-wow/schedule-of-events#content