Public invited to Cultural Experience at Cd'A Casino

With a nod to the immense popularity of Winter Blessing, a celebration of that season held every December, Cultural Experience will come to the Coeur d'Alene Casino Resort July 18 with much of the same feeling, and much of the same heartfelt generosity. But summer tradition among Coeur d'Alene tribal members will be far more festive than the quiet, storytelling atmosphere of winter.

Cultural Experience is open to all and held in the Chinook Meadow at the resort where shade and green grass will offer a comfortable setting. Doors open at 6 p.m. with festivities beginning at 7 p.m. Attendees will receive a gift of huckleberry jam.

The event will open with a rider on horseback, entering to the sound of a flute and a welcoming narration from Cultural Affairs Director Quanah Matheson. The story of the dance will come, and of the significance of the drum. But the dances, many of them older than memory, will include a new twist, and possibly the birth of a new tradition.

"Our young tribal members are creating their own modern dance," Matheson said. "These young people know the different styles that tribal members from all over bring to celebrations and powwows. But they also honor existing culture by adding something new, a blend of the lessons they've learned with ideas and expressions of their own. Many of us are very excited to see what they will bring."

For uncounted centuries, tribes in the Pacific Northwest and elsewhere have looked to the summer season for special gatherings, including singing, dancing, games and competitions. As non-Indian trappers and traders came, those gatherings included rendezvous.

"We have a strong element with this history," Matheson said. "It has always been inclusive of everyone, coming together in a good way, a peaceful way and a way to share the great bounty that our Creator provides us. We now have a new gathering with new elements, so we will share and enjoy this time together."

Expanding the Cultural Experience is also on the table, with plans underway to add cultural celebrations in the fall and spring.

For more information on the Coeur d'Alene Casino Resort and Hotel or to make a reservation visit www.cdacasino.com or call (800) 523-2464.