By Haley Mitchell Godwin

The Ma-Chis Lower Creek Indian Tribe of Alabama will hold its annual powwow this Friday and Saturday, Oct. 25 and 26, on the Ma-Chis Lower Creek tribal grounds, located at 2950 County Road 377 in Elba. The two-day cultural celebration will run daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is open to the public. Admission is $2 per person paid in cash or via Cash App.

The event will offer a wide array of traditional Native American demonstrations, vendors, children’s activities and culinary options including fry bread, roasted corn, and more modern fare such as hamburgers, hotdogs, chicken fingers and barbecue.

For De Williams, a Ma-Chis tribal citizen originally from the Shiloh community near Elba and now living in Fayetteville, North Carolina, attending the powwow is a way to contribute to the preservation of her Native American culture.

“Attending a powwow offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich traditions and culture of Native American communities,” Williams said. “It’s a powerful way to connect with Indigenous people, celebrate resilience and witness the beauty of intergenerational knowledge-sharing.”

According to Williams, powwows also provide a space for healing, unity and reflection- creating lifelong memories while supporting cultural preservation.

Throughout the two days, attendees can experience demonstrations on traditional Native American practices and traditions, such as flint knapping, hide tanning, primitive pottery making, pine needle basket weaving, bone carving, primitive cooking, stick weaving, beading, basket weaving, herb usage, soap making, candle making, dugout canoe making and more.   

The over 20 vendors set to be present will give visitors the opportunity to take home a piece of Native American craftsmanship, with handmade items such as native ribbon skirts, jewelry, leather purses, candles, beaded items, home decor and more available for purchase. 

Attendees will encounter Informative stations and presentations where they can learn about the Creek language and other topics important to the tribe. Storytelling, dancing and drumming will also be on the agenda.  Although students from various surrounding schools will be attending the pow wow Friday, it is still open to the public both days.   

Additionally, the powwow will feature a dedicated children’s corner, where young attendees can participate in activities like simple beading, corn husk doll making, an “archaeological dig” and more. 

Tribal Chief James Wright emphasized the educational importance of the event, particularly for local students attending Friday’s powwow. 

“We want to teach kids and adults about the culture, the old ways, and the history of the area—things that aren’t found in textbooks,” Wright said. “Now that we can openly celebrate our ancestors and our Native heritage, we are no longer just surviving; we are thriving and we are blessed that we can now help others in their struggles.”

Dr. Richard Scott Nokes, a Troy University professor who attended last year’s powwow with students from Europe and Asia, reflected on the event’s impact. 

“The students raved about the once-in-a-lifetime experience,” Nokes said. “The gracious responses from tribal citizens made them feel so welcome. Without a doubt, the hospitality of the Ma-Chis Tribe has made more friends worldwide.”

The Ma-Chis Lower Creek Indian Tribe’s annual powwow is expected to draw a diverse group of participants, including Creek and Cherokee citizens, as well as Alaskan Natives and other Indigenous people. The event promises to be a cultural treasure for attendees of all ages.

For an unforgettable experience that blends culture, education and entertainment, mark your calendars for the Ma-Chis Lower Creek Indian Tribe of Alabama’s powwow this Friday and Saturday.