I debated whether or not to review the Shinnecock Powwow because I didn't want to disrespect…read moreanything that comes to this event, but honestly my review only wants to promote it because it definitely is 4.5/5 star experience worth checking out, which is just what my wife and I (plus some of our family) did during Labor Day weekend.
Interestingly, a lot of my friends had not even known or heard about the Shinnecock Powwow despite it being something occurring on Long Island for quite some time. As previously stated, Labor Day weekend is when you'll be able to attend, and for $20 (or $10 if you're a senior) plus free parking, it's worth the entry. Consider the setup around the main stage of the powwow like a market or street fair. There are tons of vendors selling Native American clothes, toys, carvings, statues, artwork, and much more. You'll find plenty of cultural food options as well such as fry bread (which we got one plain and it was subtly sweet and fantastic all on its own) and even LI favorites made right on the Shinnecock land like lobster rolls or coffee (I had the latter in iced form and it was delicious).
Though more importantly than any market or even food would be the actual festivities of the Powwow. With tribes from all over the country coming to be a part of this, when the grand entry begins, it is quite an exciting, colorful, and culturally enlightening sight. You'll hear music, see dances, and can even watch competitions (like drums) take place over the course of the weekend. We spent a handful of hours here on that Saturday of the powwow, but it's definitely an event that you could stay the whole day (and maybe even want to come back the next day too!).
Overall, if you've never heard of or been to the Shinnecock Powwow, you're missing out. It's a great event and one in which you'll hear, taste, and see things you might not get to otherwise. Being able to experience the Shinnecock nation and other tribes proudly perform and showcase their history is meaningful, important, and something that can also be a lot of fun for you. Unfortunately, you'll have to hold out until next September, but it'll be worth the wait!