Morongo Thunder & Lightning Powwow celebrates Native American culture and traditions

CABAZON, Calif. (KESQ) — The sounds of gourd rattles, singing and dancing filled the area outside Morongo Casino Friday as the 35th annual Morongo Thunder & Lightning Powwow got underway.

The three-day celebration brings together thousands of people, including more than 900 dancers and 20 drum groups from across the United States and Canada.

For the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, the event is about more than entertainment. It is an opportunity for families and communities to come together, share stories and continue traditions passed down through generations.

“It’s a time to come together so we’re having families from across the nation come back, we’re sharing stories,” said Maria Lorenzo, cultural event coordinator for the Morongo Band of Mission Indians.

Lorenzo said seeing so many people gather is also a reminder of how important it is to have spaces where Native communities can come together.

“It makes me proud to see everyone come together,” Lorenzo said. “Back in history we weren’t allowed to congregate so to be able to hold these gatherings, it’s a place to come together.”

Visitors can experience Native American culture through traditional dancing, music, food and art throughout the weekend.

More than 100 vendors are taking part, offering food including Indian tacos, tamales and frybread, along with Native American jewelry, beadwork, pottery, clothing and basketry.

The powwow also highlights the Cahuilla tradition of bird singing.

Geronimo Holmes, a bird singer with the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, said the tradition tells the story of the Cahuilla people's migration and has been passed down through his family.

“I learned from my father, he learned from my older uncles and elders and they pass it down to us and it’s important for us to keep those up,” Holmes said.

The event comes as California recognizes Native American Day on September 25. Governor Gavin Newsom also proclaimed the day and signed a package of bills focused on tribal priorities.

For Lorenzo, the recognition is another reminder of the resilience of Native communities.

“It’s just recognition that we’re still here, we’re still alive,” Lorenzo said. “We’re resilient people, we’re your neighbors.”

The next generation is also a major part of the celebration, with young children participating alongside older dancers and family members.

Lorenzo said watching the youngest dancers is one of the most meaningful parts of the event.

“Watching the tiny tots dance. Little kids barely starting to learn and they have the older generations to look up to,” she said.

The Morongo Thunder & Lightning Powwow continues through Sunday at Morongo Casino Resort & Spa in Cabazon. Admission is free.

Grand Entry is scheduled for 8 p.m. Friday, 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday, and 1 p.m. Sunday.

Stay with News Channel 3 for more.