North American Indians and Alaska Natives donning traditional regalia will gather for a vibrant showcase of dancing, drumming and singing at the 44th annual Honolulu Intertribal Pow Wow, Oct. 6 and 7 at Ala Moana Beach Park.

The powwow “is the annual celebration that embodies the mission of the Oahu Intertribal Council’s yearlong activities to share, promote and educate the community about North American Indian and Alaska Native traditions,” said event coordinator Lynnae Lawrence.

Families are welcome and encouraged to bring blankets and chairs to the event, which will feature hands-on cultural activities at a keiki crafts booth, a full-size teepee on display and Indian tacos for sale. Native American Indian vendors will also sell authentic handmade jewelry, arts-and-crafts items and T-shirts.

“We are fortunate to have champion powwow dancers serving as our head staff,” Lawrence added, and they include “head man dancer” Jonathan Windy Boy, a champion grass dancer and Montana state representative, and “head lady dancer” Lisa Ewack, a champion fancy shawl dancer and former Miss Indian World. The visiting “host drum” is High Noon, a group from Saskatchewan, Canada.

“Four dance groups from the mainland will also be in attendance,” Lawrence said. “Each group will share their own unique dance style during special performances at the powwow.”