Powwow draws tens of thousands to NM

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- The start of this year's powwow season got under way Friday as hundreds of Native American and indigenous dancers crowded onto the floor of University of New Mexico Arena, each one pounding their feet in rhythm to dozens of beating drums.

Donning traditional costumes of beads, bells, feathers, fringed leather and shells, they came from Canada, both coasts of the United States and everywhere in between.

"It's a wonderful spectacle to see," said Jason Whitehouse, a master of ceremonies for the 29th Annual Gathering of Nations.

Aside from the thousands of dancers and singers who participate in competitions, as many as 150,000 spectators were expected to pass through the doors during the three-day event. It wraps up late Saturday with award ceremonies and the crowning of Miss Indian World.

Organizers bill the Gathering of Nations as one of the world's largest powwows.

Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/2012/04/27/4448903/powwow-draws-tens-of-thousands.html#storylink=cpy


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