Lumbee Tribe to Host ‘Dance of the Harvest Moon’ Powwow September 27-29

The 2024 Lumbee Tribe "Dance of the Harvest Moon" Powwow is set to take place from September 27-29 at the Lumbee Tribe Cultural Center in Maxton, NC. This annual event celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Lumbee people and promises to be a vibrant gathering of Native American traditions, art, and community.

The powwow will feature multiple Grand Entries throughout the weekend:

Admission prices are as follows:

For more information on ticket purchase, click here.

The event will showcase traditional Native American dances, including some specific to the Lumbee Tribe. Visitors can expect to see skilled dancers in colorful regalia performing various styles of dance. Two host drums have been announced - WarPaint (Northern) and Otter Trail (Southern). These groups will provide the heartbeat of the powwow with their powerful drumming and singing.

The 2024 powwow will be led by:

In addition to dance performances, the powwow typically includes Native American arts and crafts vendors, traditional food, and educational opportunities to learn about Lumbee culture and history. A stickball event will be held alongside the powwow, offering attendees a chance to witness or participate in this traditional Native American sport. The Lumbee Tribe "Dance of the Harvest Moon" Powwow is one of the largest gatherings in southeastern North Carolina, attracting thousands of visitors from both Lumbee and non-Lumbee communities. It serves as a powerful celebration of Lumbee identity and an opportunity for cultural exchange and education.

With their combination of natural beauty, historic charm, and affordable rates, state parks offer endless opportunities for a one-of-a-kind wedding experience. Which is why my boo and I recently tied the knot at a state park in Florida, in my childhood hometown. Not only was it special to be in a place that meant so much to me, but the cost for the state park venue also left room in the wedding budget for other expenses.

When you start planning your state park wedding, here are some things to consider:

Most state parks provide tables, chairs, and access to electricity and restrooms. Some even have lodges, cabins or campgrounds where guests can stay on-site, making it a full weekend event. This keeps things simple for you and your guests. Having the ceremony and reception in separate locations is common. Providing transportation is optional as most guests can navigate between the sites themselves, however some parks have solutions for this. For instance, our state park venue offered a wilderness boat ride between park and reception space.

With their combination of natural beauty, historic charm, and affordable rates, state parks offer endless opportunities for a one-of-a-kind wedding experience. Just be sure to secure the proper permits and follow all park regulations.

Here are some notable state parks that would make for an incredible wedding ceremony and add a unique element to your special day.

Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is actually where we tied the knot and couldn't have been happier with the surroundings. For more information, click here
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Tallulah Gorge State Park offers hiking trails with suspension bridges, kayaking, and rock climbing overlooking the 1,000-foot gorge.

Pocahontas State Park, only 30 minutes from Richmond, offers tranquil outdoor ceremony locations and dining halls in the woods that can fit up to 150 people.