Morongo Thunder & Lightning Powwow Kicks Off in Cabazon, Calif.
CABAZON, Calif. (KESQ) — The lively sounds of gourd rattles, singing, and dancing filled the area outside Morongo Casino as the 35th annual Morongo Thunder & Lightning Powwow began on Friday.
This three-day celebration attracts thousands, featuring over 900 dancers and 20 drum groups from across the United States and Canada.
For the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, the powwow transcends mere entertainment. It serves as an essential gathering for families and communities to share stories and uphold traditions passed down through generations.
Maria Lorenzo, cultural event coordinator for the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, emphasized the significance of this gathering, stating it fosters connection and storytelling among families nationwide. She added, “It makes me proud to see everyone come together. Back in history, we weren’t allowed to congregate, so these gatherings are crucial.”
Attendees can immerse themselves in Native American culture through traditional dancing, music, food, and art throughout the weekend. More than 100 vendors offer a variety of foods like Indian tacos, tamales, and frybread, alongside Native American jewelry, beadwork, pottery, clothing, and basketry.
Additionally, the powwow shines a spotlight on the Cahuilla tradition of bird singing. Geronimo Holmes, a bird singer with the Morongo Band, explained that this tradition recounts the migration story of the Cahuilla people and has been passed down in his family.
“I learned from my father, who learned from my older uncles and elders, and it’s important for us to keep those traditions alive,” Holmes said.
The event coincides with California’s recognition of Native American Day on September 25, a day marked by Governor Gavin Newsom’s proclamation and the signing of bills focused on tribal priorities.
For Lorenzo, the recognition is a testament to the resilience of Native communities. “It’s just recognition that we’re still here, we’re still alive. We’re resilient people, we’re your neighbors,” she remarked.
The powwow is also a celebration for the younger generation, with children participating alongside older dancers and their family members. Lorenzo described the sight of the youngest dancers as one of the event’s most meaningful aspects.
“Watching the tiny tots dance… they have the older generations to look up to,” she noted.
The Morongo Thunder & Lightning Powwow continues through Sunday at Morongo Casino Resort & Spa in Cabazon, with free admission. Key events include Grand Entry at 8 p.m. on Friday, 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturday, and 1 p.m. on Sunday.
Stay tuned to News Channel 3 for the latest updates.
