Largest outdoor powwow in the Northwest is back July 20-22

Julyamsh, which means “The Gathering in July,” will bring dance, drums, food as well as tribal artists and craftspeople to the Kootenai County Fairgrounds July 20 to 22.

The event is one of the largest powwows in the nation, bringing around 30 drum groups and nearly 600 dancers from across the continent. It is among Indian Country’s most popular events, with more than $135,000 in prizes for participants, including head man, head woman, miss, little miss, committee choice, hand drum and varius age categories.

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 Amani Antone.

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.

Grand entry begins at 7 p.m. on Friday and continues on Saturday at 1 and 7 p.m. and Sunday at 1 p.m. Horse parades, with horses and riders in full regalia, will precede each grand entry. Camping is $20 and admission is $10; children 12 and younger are free.

For more information visit Julyamsh.com or call 1-800-523-2464.