We've been busy here at La Posada de Taos for the last several weeks with wonderful guests from all over the world. A recent announcement from the Town of Taos detailed the events we can expect in July, so I'd like to fill in some details for those of you coming in the upcoming weeks starting with the Pow Wow.
The Taos Pueblo Pow Wow is scheduled for July 8, 9 and 10. Beginning that Friday night at 7 pm with the Grand Entry, Native peoples from across the Western Hemisphere will entertain us wearing the regalia of their Nations and honoring their friendships with one another that date back centuries before Europeans arrived in North America. I've been told in the past the incredible clothes you'll see are NOT costumes -- they are regalia.
Unlike many other ceremonies and observances at the Taos Pueblo, the Pow Wow isn't considered a religious event. It is a social gathering and celebration of Native peoples and cultures honoring traditions and the proud histories of the many tribes participating.
If you attend, be prepared with hats, sunscreen and sunglasses. Cameras are allowed, but be advised that you may not take anyone's picture without their explicit consent. I can say without a doubt, however, that a camera is highly advised. Be courteous, patient and observant. Ask questions. Meet people. Spend time doing nothing but being a spectator and then begin thinking about the camera. Not once were we denied the opportunity to photograph, but we also felt that it was a privilege and not a right to do so. You should know that some folks make their living working at Pow Wows. That means that they may charge you for permission to take their photograph. It's their job, after all.
I encourage you to visit the link to the descriptions of various dances to be held, including the Gourd Dance, Grass Dance, Men's Fancy Dance, Northern and Southern Traditionals and the Women's Dances to be held during the festivities.
Finally, although I've been holding a room for the weekend, if you're interested in seeing this amazing display of a rich history, heritage and tradition, you'll need to call soon. (800) 645-4803.
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| Regalia from "Southern" Tribe |
The Taos Pueblo Pow Wow is scheduled for July 8, 9 and 10. Beginning that Friday night at 7 pm with the Grand Entry, Native peoples from across the Western Hemisphere will entertain us wearing the regalia of their Nations and honoring their friendships with one another that date back centuries before Europeans arrived in North America. I've been told in the past the incredible clothes you'll see are NOT costumes -- they are regalia.
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| Preparing for the Grand Entry, July 2010 |
Unlike many other ceremonies and observances at the Taos Pueblo, the Pow Wow isn't considered a religious event. It is a social gathering and celebration of Native peoples and cultures honoring traditions and the proud histories of the many tribes participating.
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| Pow Wow's are a time for old friends to reunite. |
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| Be Polite, Posing for Photographs is Work! |
Finally, although I've been holding a room for the weekend, if you're interested in seeing this amazing display of a rich history, heritage and tradition, you'll need to call soon. (800) 645-4803.
1 comment:
What a great event. The Pow Wow seems like a great chance to learn about these native American's culture and philosophy. The regalia of the natives are so beautifully detailed and colorful; as a photographer, I can imagine what a unique opportunity it would be to photograph and meet so many interesting people. Really cool.
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