Cherokee National Holiday Celebration Underway In Tahlequah

The Cherokee National Holiday continues this weekend in Tahlequah. Visitors from around the world will experience Cherokee culture with an estimated attendance of 100,000.

"The annual Cherokee National Holiday is a weekend celebration of our tribe's history, heritage and hospitality, and it's a true homecoming for Cherokee citizens. We expect another record crowd of friends, family and visitors again this year," said Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker.

"This 62nd annual holiday is especially significant because we will commemorate the 175th anniversary of the end of the Trail of Tears. Our ancestors never gave up, and today the Cherokee Nation is stronger than at any time in our history. That's something for all to be proud of and to celebrate."

There will be the annual State of the Nation speech, parade, rodeo, more than 120 Native American vendors and more.

The Holiday Powwow begins at 2 p.m. Saturday with a number of dance categories including Fancy Dance, jingle and Northern Traditional. It takes place at the Cherokee Cultural Grounds, West 810 Road in Tahlequah. The rodeo begins at 8 p.m.

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