Are you ready for a weekend full of fun, food, and festivities that include live music and dancing, as well as one of the most immersive explorations into Native American culture? Then mark your calendars for the triumphant return of the Whispering Winds Pow Wow to the Howard County Fairgrounds in West Friendship, Maryland.
Now in its 32nd season, the Annual Whispering Winds Howard County/American Indian Show and Festival is sponsored by Pow Wow, an American Indian owned and operated company. It was first and foremost established to show honor and appreciation for all things Native American. It’s also designed as a way to engage, encourage, and educate the public about the vast diversity surrounding the cultural and artistic heritage of the first true American People.
This year’s event will run from July 19 to 20. Doors open at 10 a.m. on both days and will remain in full swing until 6 p.m. The main opening day attraction will be a great Parade of Nations at noon. It will feature Native American Dancers in regalia, accompanied by musical performances (drums and woodwind instruments) and include members of the Haliwa-Saponi, Piscataway, Rappahannock, Cherokee, Sioux, Iroquois, Lumbee, Navajo, and several others.
Both Saturday and Sunday will present a vast array of ongoing features and activities. Offerings will be for adults and children alike. Just some of the featured callouts include hands-on arts and crafts (canvas painting, beadwork, and dream-catcher making), dance demos and interaction, pony rides, face painting, and even an onsite petting zoo!
Plenty of vendors and market artisans will be in attendance selling their authentic Native American goods. From fine art to turquoise jewelry, beadwork, moccasins, rugs, and more, there is no shortage of optimal options to choose from.
This is also your chance to sample some traditional Native American foods. Novelty highlights to try out include Indian Corn Soup, Fry Bread, Buffalo Stew, Buffalo Burgers, and many others. Of course, traditional American classic fare will also be dished out.
Come be a part of this year’s Pow Wow and show your appreciation for Native American culture and heritage! Admission is $8 for children 12 and under and $15 for ages 13 and up.
The Howard County Fairgrounds are located at 2210 Fairgrounds Road, West Friendship, MD, 27894. Click here to learn more.