DURANT – Choctaw Casino Resort in Durant, Okla. is celebrating Native American culture and traditions with the 8^th Annual Pow Wow at the Choctaw Event Center on Friday, Nov. 23 and Saturday, Nov. 24. Admission to the Pow Wow is free.

“We’re excited to host the 8^th Annual Pow Wow at the Choctaw Event Center,” said Pow Wow Committee Chairman Tammye Gwin. “This event is an important celebration for the Native American people, and it gives us the opportunity to celebrate our heritage and share our vibrant culture with the surrounding community, as well as guests who appreciate Native American culture from across the country.”

The Pow Wow will include grand entries and dance contests with dancers of all ages and styles in full regalia, drum competitions with singers, social dances, authentic food and Native American arts and crafts including beadwork, clothing and jewelry.

Schedule of events:

Friday, Nov. 23

• 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – Dancer and Drum Registration
• 10 a.m. to noon – Gourd Dance
• 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. – Choctaw Social Dance
• 1 p.m. – Grand Entry and Dance Contest

Saturday, Nov. 24

• 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. – Gourd Dance
• 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – Choctaw Social Dance
• 1 p.m. – Grand Entry and Dance Contest
• 9 p.m. – Announcement of Winners

The 8^th Annual Pow Wow head staff includes Arena Directors Michael Roberts, Rusty Gillette and Joaquin Hamilton, emcees Tommy Christian and Rob Daugherty, Head Gourd Dancers Ira Kaulay and Marty Thurman and the Choctaw Nation Color Guard.

For more information, including contest rules and entry forms, visit www.ChoctawCasinos.com/Durant.aspx.