Julyamsh Powwow returns July 22-24
<p>Over 1,000 dancers participated in the Grand Entry of the Julyamsh 2014 Powwow on July 25, 2014. Julyamsh is the largest outdoor powwow in the Northwest.</p>
<p>Skye McMichael dances during the 2013 Julyamsh Powwow grand entry on Friday, July 26, 2013. McMichael was the first place winner of the regalia dance contest.</p>
<p>Maya Best, a descendant of the Coeur d'Alene and Colville tribes, smiles at family just before riding in a horse parade kicking off the Julyamsh Powwow on July 22, 2011.</p>
After a two-year hiatus, dancers and drummers will once more gather in Coeur d’Alene for one of the largest powwows in the nation. This year, Julyamsh, “The Gathering in July,” will be held at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds starting July 22 and continuing through July 24.
“The responses from all areas have been tremendous, and the facilities are spacious and very well maintained,” said Laura Stensgar, marketing executive director for the Tribe and a tribal committee member. “We have everyone and everything working toward a great comeback for Julyamsh.”
For almost two decades, the powwow has been not only among the largest summer events, but among Indian Country’s most popular.
The Julyamsh is expecting between 600 and 800 dancers and between 50 and 60 drum groups from tribes all across the country and Canada to perform. The event is expected to draw upward of 60,000 spectators over the three days.
Coeur d'Alene Casino cultural affairs director Quanah Matheson will be master of ceremonies and the Host Drum will be provided by Bear Creek, Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. Jonathan Nomee will be the arena director.
Coeur d’Alene Tribe’s Head Man Dancer will be Kyle Davis and Jordyn Nomee will be the Head Woman Dancer.
There are $175,000 worth of prizes for a variety of dance and drum categories.
Fairgrounds crews will prepare the dance area with grassy turf, a key consideration for dancers on foot and the expected horse parade.
"Overall it's a bigger, better fit for Julyamsh," said Matheson. "It's got the grandstands, the arena, the sound system... and for the horse parade it has horse stalls and area for them to warm up."
Already, 27 food vendors, 63 arts and crafts booths and eight informational tables are signed up to be present at the powwow.
There will be a $2 admission fee per person and free parking at the fairgrounds.
For more information visit CDACasino.com or Julyamsh.com.