TOPPENISH, WA – Legends Casino Hotel will host their annual pow wow and stick games event at the SunDome in Yakima from May 16 through May 18. The public is invited to join the grand events for dance contests, drum performances, food and craft vendors, and new features like Shootout featuring Jason Buck and Gigi Caye.
More than $150,000 in cash and prizes will be awarded between the stick games tournament and pow wow competitions. The events include formal ceremonies and celebrate the traditions of the Yakama people. The SunDome has the capacity to host 7,000 spectators who can view pow wow performances from the raised seating, and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs to experience the stick games.
“Not only did we see record attendance last year – our first year hosting the event at the SunDome – but we received rave reviews for the new venue from attendees,” said Letisha Peterson, Legends Casino Hotel General Manager. “We’re excited to return to the SunDome this year, and we look forward to seeing all of the contestants and the public again.”
“The best Native American dancers and drummers in the country will join us again to perform,” said Pow Wow Co-Chair, John Gaspard. “We’ve added a Spotlight Consolation Tournament on Saturday for teams that did not make the official tournament. Everyone in the family will find something to enjoy. For percussion enthusiasts, award-winning drummers will perform, and tent vendors will offer beadwork, jewelry, Native wear, and much more for shoppers and collectors to peruse.”
While guests may bring food and drink to the events, the food vendors will appeal to foodies who will find fry bread, Indian tacos, pow wow burgers, and other favorites. The detailed schedule in addition to the application for camping – available on SunDome grounds – is available from the Legends Casino Hotel website at https://legendscasino.com/powwow-stickgame.
