So, You Want a Real Party? These summer powwow events should be on your calendar

Looking for an authentic New England experience this summer? The warm months are powwow season in Indian Country, and with open-to-the-public Indigenous events happening across the southern part of the region, there’s never been a better time to get in touch with the cultures of the country’s Native people. But finding the right event can be tricky; here are the ones you want to attend.

98th Annual Mashpee Wampanoag Powwow July 5 – 7

You can choose yet another red, white and blue hot dogs and firework fest this July 4 weekend, or you could do something interesting. With dancers and singers from across the continent, food from myriad vendors and fireball after sunset (imagine rugby … but on fire), this is the only place to be during the Independence Day celebrations. You won’t have a better experience this summer. Arrive after 1pm.

Mashpee Wampanoag Powwow Grounds, 483 Great Neck Road South Mashpee, Mass

344th Narragansett Indian Tribe’s August Meeting and Powwow, August 10 – 11

The oldest recorded powwow in North America, this one has special meaning and the importance can be felt in every aspect of the occasion. Visitors can enjoy traditional Narragansett cuisine, browse Native jewelry, and be entertained by music and traditional dancing, particularly from the Eastern Woodlands. A distinctly Rhode Island Indigenous affair. Arrive after 1pm

Indian Church Grounds (off Rt. 2) in Charlestown

2019 Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation Schemitzun, August 24 – 25

Schemitzun, the Feast of Green Corn and Dance, honors Mantoo (Creator), by celebrating the harvest, family, ancestors and veterans. Attracting artists, singers and dancers from all over North America, Schmeitzun is one of the biggest powwows in the country. Arrive after 1pm.

Mashantucket Reservation 110 Pequot Trail Mashantucket, Conn