Julyamsh Returns to Kootenai County Fairgrounds July 21-22

WORLEY — Dancers, drum groups, food concessionaires, tribal artists and craftspeople return to the Kootenai County Fairgrounds July 21 and 22 for Julyamsh, “The Gathering in July,” one of the largest powwows in the nation.

The powwow will be located at the fairgrounds for the second year after a brief hiatus. For almost two decades, it has been not only among the largest but among Indian Country’s most popular summer events.

“The fairgrounds proved to be a fantastic new home for Julyamsh last year and we are excited to continue the relationship this year,” said Francis SiJohn, CEO of the Coeur d’Alene Casino. “Everyone is hard at work preparing; it’s sure to be a great year.”

With $120,000 in prizes for a variety of dance categories and for the drums, Julyamsh is a major destination among participants. In fact, they will come from all across the U.S. and Canada to participate and compete.

“We can expect between 600-800 dancers again,” said Yvette Matt, powwow director.

Some 25-30 drum groups can also be expected, also representing U.S. tribes and Canadian bands from across the continent. The Host Drum will be provided by Bull Horn, Blood Tribe.

Coeur d’Alene Casino’s cultural affairs director, Quanah Matheson, will return as a master of ceremonies. Other Coeur d’Alene tribal members directly involved include Head Man Dancer Franky Skwanqhqn and Head Woman Dancer Stephanie Reynolds.

Grand entries are at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. both Friday and Saturday. Horse parades, with horses and riders in full regalia, will precede each grand entry at 12:30 p.m. Artificial turf is being laid in the dance area, ensuring a dust-free two days.

Vendors serving food and drink as well as arts and crafts, authentic native works and memorabilia will be set up to serve guests throughout the weekend.

Admission to Julyamsh is $10; children 12 and under are free. For more information visit Julyamsh.com or call 1 (800) 523-2464.