🎉 Spirit of the Veteran & Warrior Intertribal Pow Wow in Evensville – November 14-15, $7 Admission

The Dunlap, TN area is about to welcome a major cultural celebration that honors Native American traditions while paying tribute to veterans and first responders. The Spirit of the Veteran & Warrior Intertribal Pow Wow brings together dancers, drummers, artisans, and storytellers for a two-day community gathering that reflects the region’s deep respect for service and heritage.

🗓️ When It Happens

Mark your calendar for Saturday, November 14, and Sunday, November 15, 2026. 🎊 Gates open at 10 a.m. both days-Saturday runs until 7 p.m., and Sunday closes at 6 p.m. Grand Entry, the ceremonial opening of the pow wow, takes place at noon each day and is not to be missed. 🥁

📍 Where to Go

The event is held at the Rhea County Fairgrounds on Harold Robbins Lane in Evensville, Tennessee. 🏞️ If you’re traveling from out of town, the Best Western in Dayton (7835 Rhea Co Hwy, Dayton, TN 37321) is designated as the host hotel-call 423-775-6560 for reservations.

🎟️ Admission & Who Gets In Free

General admission is just $7 per person. 💵 Children under 10 enter free, and there’s a special honor for those who serve: veterans, police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and teachers all receive free admission with a valid ID. 🇺🇸 This pricing reflects the event’s mission to celebrate and welcome the entire community.

✨ What You’ll Experience

This is a full intertribal celebration featuring Native American dancing and drumming, specialty dances, native flute players, and storytellers. 🎵 The Host Drum, Medicine Scout, will lead the music, with MC Joey Pierce guiding the program. Head dancers include Shaun Hedgecoth (Head Man Dancer), Erika “Nikki” Koellein (Head Woman Dancer), and James Morgan, a US Marine Veteran, serving as Head Veteran Dancer. 💪

Beyond the performances, you’ll find Native American craft vendors, food, a luck-of-the-draw game, a trade blanket exchange, and a live auction. 🎨 All drums and dancers are welcome to participate-whether you’re an experienced pow wow dancer or simply curious about the traditions, there’s a place for you. The event is family-friendly and designed as a welcoming community cultural gathering.

❤️ Why This Matters

Sponsored by The Winds of Wolves Farm and Refuge and supported by the Cherokee Removal Museum, this pow wow honors veterans and first responders while celebrating Native American culture and community connection. 🤝 It’s a rare opportunity to experience authentic intertribal traditions, support local vendors, and be part of a gathering that brings people together across backgrounds and generations.

📞 How to Learn More

For general information, contact “Tyishka” at 422-716-8316. 📱 If you’re interested in vending or want to bring your drums and dancing skills, reach out to Richard “Two Wolves” DeArk at 423-323-1407 or NoahBuiltDeArk@yahoo.com. You can also follow updates on the Spirit of the Veteran and Warrior Facebook page.

A few reminders: This is a family-friendly, substance-free event-no firearms, drugs, or alcohol are permitted. The organizers ask that attendees refrain from religious and political discussions, keeping the focus on culture, honor, and community. 🌟

Whether you’re a longtime pow wow enthusiast, a veteran wanting to be honored, a family looking for a unique cultural experience, or simply curious about Native American traditions, this is an event worth your time. 🎉 Bring a friend, mark your calendar for November 14-15, and plan to spend a day or two at the Rhea County Fairgrounds celebrating heritage, service, and community.