2024 Pow Wow

 In our small town, which is nestled in the heart of Texas, the annual Pow Wow is way more than just a tradition--it is the event of the year.  

Each October, local folks along with many other out of town visitors, line the streets to prepare for the Pow Wow Parade.   

This event all began in 1988 as a way to celebrate the rich heritage of Native Americans.  In a certain area of our town there is a creek called as Battle Creek. Many Native American artifacts have been found along this area.  

  Battle Creek is the site of a battle in 1839 between Native American Chief Bowles's and his people against Texas troops. The earliest documented inhabitants of the area known as Chandler were Delaware, Cherokee and Kickapoo Indians. 

YES....the Pow Wow always kicks off with a grand parade and of course, our local High School Band fires up the crowd with the playing of their instruments and the beating of the drums. 

I love watching the kids as they stand in awe of the floats passing by.  They stand there holding their little bags, just waiting to fill them with the candy being thrown by those riding on the floats. 

I was amazed at how many Food vendors there were this year.  As Trista (my oldest daughter) and I walked the grounds, the smell of food was enticing us to explore our options.   The Fried Egg rolls are always a big hit....I know I smelled BBQ.  I mean....a Texan can always smell Hickory smoked BBQ.  I saw an Ice Cream trailer along with vendors selling Fried Pies, Corn of the Cob, Hamburgers, and kinds of savory and sweet delights. 

Wouldn't you know it....Trista and I both left our wallets (hidden) in her locked car.  We had to walk about 200 + yards to get from our parade viewing area, to the grounds where everything was set up.  

Neither one of us had any money in our pockets......not even a single penny!! lol.

We filled up on the comforting aromas of food, which was coming at us in all directions.  

I actually saw a few people that I have not seen in probably 30 years or so.  

Many local artist displayed their crafts at booths scattered throughout the festival. They were showcasing their many talents.

The Pow Wow is more than just a celebration....it is like a Homecoming of some sorts.  

The community comes together to celebrate the history of the town, and gives us the opportunity to see friends who perhaps no longer live in the area.  

The weather was perfect, and what I witnessed was simply many smiling faces, kids laughing and filled with wonder, and pure enjoyment from the crowd of people.  

Shug..