Waimea Intertribal Powwow
Waimea, Hawaii, USA
Late SeptemberDescription
The unique history of this Native American powwow is relatively unknown, but the events leading up to its creation are truly fascinating. The powwow was started by one man in Hawaii - Buttons (yes, Buttons) Lovell, in 1993. Buttons' ethnicity includes a rare pairing of Native Hawaiian and Native American, and although he had always been in touch with his Native Hawaiian past while growing up in Hawaii, he knew very little about his Cherokee heritage. Determined to find out more about his Native American family, after many years of research and investigation he found that many Native Americans in the Pacific Northwest were also part-Hawaiian. Buttons Lovell began a life-long process of learning and acceptance with Native American tribes in the United States. His efforts have resulted in the bringing-together of two very unique cultures long separated by a distant past.

The Waimea Intertribal Powwow begins with Native Hawaiian welcoming chants and a hula ceremony for the Native American dancers and performers. The powwow is complete with grand entry, flag dance, and honoring dance. Much of the ceremony is focused on honoring ancestors. Traditional dancers tell war stories and compete in fancy dance, shawl, jingle dance. There will be numerous tents for the Native American and Native Hawaiian vendors - selling food, arts, and crafts. Buttons Lovell is famous for his generous hospitality - and treats his guests to Saturday night dinner which includes Roast, stew, chili, Hawaiian food and deep fried turkey.

Performers
This year, Wild Horse is host drum and there will be head men and head women dancers. Spectators can expect many different tribes to attend to be a part of the festivities. Also, in attendence will be the 2001 Miss Indian World. In past years they have welcomed honored elders from numerous tribes including Hopi, Havasupai, Cree, Ojibway, Dakota, Lakota, Squaxin, Lummi and 106 elders from the Saginaw Chippewas.
Venue
Waimea Ball Park (in the Center of town)
Directions
Kawaihae Road, Route19 in Waimea
Times
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Admission & Parking
Parking is free.
Infophone
808--885-5569
Email
puniwai@hotmail.com