The Ma-Chis Lower Creek Indian Tribe of Alabama is conducting its annual Pow Wow this weekend on the campus of Troy University.

Friday was school day and children from around the state were in attendance. The public is invited to attend the Pow Wow from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. today on in the area adjacent to Trojan Arena. Admission and parking are free.

A Pow Wow is a social gathering held by many different Native American communities. The word derives from the Narragansett word powwaw, meaning “spiritual leader.”  A modern Pow Wow is a specific type of event for Native American/First Nations people to meet and dance, sing, socialize and honor their cultures.

The Ma-Chis Lower Creek Indian Tribe of Alabama Pow Wow is held to educate others about the Creek heritage and culture.

The gates open today at 8:30 a.m. with demonstrations, educational stations and children’s activities beginning at 8:50 and continuing throughout the day.

The Lunding Bear presentation on anti-drug prevention is set for 10 a.m. Students who attend the presentation will receive a small gift.

The Lowery Begay Hoop Dance and intertribal dancing will be from 10:15 until 11 a.m.

During the lunch hour, visitors to the Pow Wow will be invited to enjoy the Ryan Little Eagle Concert.

Intertribal dancing will begin at 1 p.m. with competition dancing at 2 p.m. The Retirement of the colors will close the pow wow at 5:45 p.m.