Nottoway Tribal Powwow
You are invited
When Englishmen arrived to settle Virginia in 1607, they found an extensive network of native people already here. Four hundred years later, the Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia commemorates the culture that had defined and sustained their community well before John Smith stepped ashore.
Every year in September, the Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia celebrates its heritage by hosting a PowWow. A Powwow is a celebration of American Indian culture during which people from diverse indigenous nations gather to dance, sing, and honor the traditions of their ancestors.
The annual event is held on the grounds of the Surry Parks & Recreation Center on 205 Enos Farm Drive, Surry, VA 23883, this year on September 17 & 18, 2022.
A Celebration
As we learned, powwows are for everyone, regardless of gender, race, or religion. And many enjoy attending the annual celebration of the Nottoway Indian Tribe because it is a place for friendship, reconnection, and even healing. Some also see the powwow as a place of spiritual energy, regardless of their faith. One previous attendee to the annual Nottoway Indian Tribe powwow years ago said, "I felt that I was connecting with something very ancient and special."
We weren't sure what to expect when we arrived, but it was a unique experience that we all enjoyed. The event included intertribal dancing, storytelling, and cooking; and each component taught us about the culture of the Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia. We also saw some educational exhibits. For example, this year, the powwow will include a Virginia Museum of Fine Arts Mobile Unit.
Music and Dance
Perhaps the most iconic element of any PowWow is the drumming and dancing. The music of the drum circles at the Nottoway Tribal PowWow invites visitors to travel back in time and enjoy the rhythm of life and traditions of the indigenous people of this region.
Whether or not you come from an indigenous background, guests may appreciate the opportunity to learn more about the culture and heritage of this tribe and the role that we can play in acknowledging the contributions of the people native to Surry, Virginia, and beyond.
We found the contributions of the Master of Ceremonies extremely helpful as they educated guests, provided historical context, and guided dancers through the activities of the day.
Tradition!
Tradition! If you've never been to a PowWow before, you'll want to keep a couple of points of etiquette in mind. First, the attire that dancers wear is called regalia – it is not a costume. Because it often includes family and spiritual heirlooms, all dancers' regalia holds special significance to them and should never be touched without permission. Also, please walk around designated dance and drum circles rather than through them.
Typically, it's OK for you to take photographs and video of dances and dancers, but be aware that there are particular times and songs when it's not acceptable – the MC will make those announcements. Also, please get permission from individual dancers before putting their photo on the internet.
Original Arts & Crafts
Traditional art and craft vendors are always an exciting part of the PowWow. Please remember that the price of hand-made items is usually indicative of the skill and time involved in creating such treasurers, so haggling over the price could be interpreted as being disrespectful. We’re sure you’ll find something in your price range!
It is about Attitude
Finally, your overall attitude should be one of respect. You are participating in the celebration and traditions of another sovereign nation. Take the opportunity to learn, and don't be afraid to ask questions politely. It's good to acknowledge that you don't know everything and instead focus on being in the moment, whether participating in dance or admiring the skill of arts and crafts vendors. Going to the Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia Powwow every year has become a fall tradition for us—and you might consider starting your fall tradition by visiting the 2022 Powwow in Surry. Gates open at 10 a.m. on both days, with the grand entry at noon on Saturday, September 17, and 1 p.m. on Sunday, September 18. This is a great way to enjoy a family-friendly day in the country and learn more about the lives and traditions of indigenous people.