MARKSVILLE, LA – The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana will host its 26th Annual Pow Wow on May 18 and 19, 2024, following a successful return in 2023 after the COVID-19 pandemic canceled the celebration in previous years. The annual public event, held on the Tunica-Biloxi reservation in Marksville, welcomes various regional Indigenous tribes to celebrate culture through vibrant craft displays, music performances, dance presentations and cultural exhibits. An assortment of interactive events and live performances throughout the weekend aim to highlight the history and traditions of the tribe. Not only does this cultural event celebrate the traditions of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe, but also neighboring tribes from across the region, who are invited to share their own culture and heritage alongside Tunica-Biloxi citizens.
This year’s pow wow is also a celebration of advancements by the tribe. This past year, the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe hosted U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Deb Haaland to its reservation; was also awarded a $6.4 million grant to provide new, affordable housing for tribal families; and members of tribal leadership were selected to serve on numerous federally appointed boards and committees with the hopes of amplifying the Tunica-Biloxi mission and the goals of Indian Country nationwide.
“Last year’s return of the pow wow was such an overarching success that we anticipate this year’s 26th Annual Pow Wow to be bigger and better,” said Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite. “We are eager to celebrate our accomplishments, not only for the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe, but for Indian Country as a whole. The success of one tribe is the success of all tribes to leave our mark in history and continue to pass down our culture and traditions.”
Featured performances and events include The Grayhawk Band, the Tunica-Biloxi Singers and Legend Keepers along with Native American dance and drum (singing) contests. The pow wow also features over 35 food and craft vendors.
