Florida is home to many Native American tribes. Due to Florida's deep Native American history, there are many Native American Indian music events held during the year. These events take place in various locations in Florida. The music of a variety of tribes and cultures is represented, as well as crafts, art, bead work and sculpture.
Florida Native American Festivals
The Sarasota Native American Indian Festival takes place annually during the month of January in Sarasota, Florida. The Scenic Byway Native American Festival is a two-day festival in early March. These festivals feature the cultures of Florida Native American tribes. During the festivals, enjoy traditional Native American drumming, singing and dancing styles unique to Native American culture. Also experience traditional Native American food, arts and crafts, authentic painting, pottery, jewelry making, leather work, bead work and sculpture by Native Americans.
Florida Pow-Wows
Pow-wows are a celebration of Native American Culture, filled with both music and cultural events. The Chasco Fiesta features a pow-wow and takes place in New Port Richey, Florida. One of the highlights of the festival is the Native American Dance Competition, Pow Wow and Festival. The categories for the competition include: northern and southern traditional combined dances, fancy dances and grass dances in men's, women's, teens, juniors and tiny tots divisions. The Florida Indian Hobbyist Association Homecoming Pow Wow provides Native American drumming, inter-tribal dancing and gourd dancing at their annual event.
Florida Native American Music Festivals
Melbourne, Florida hosts the annual Native Rhythms Festival. This three-day festival celebrates the music of American indigenous groups and focuses primarily on the Native American flute. Held at the Festival Grounds at Wickham Park, the festival is host to Native American performers from around the United States. Past artists include two-time Grammy winner, Robert Mirabal and Native American flutist/violinist, Arvel Bird. Both hotel and motel lodging is available close by, as well as camping in Wickham Park. In historic Winter Garden, Florida, Native American music seekers can enjoy three days of free music at the Winter Garden Music Fest. This festival features a variety of music from many genres, including Native American Music.
Florida Native American Markets and Fairs
Throughout the year, there are many Native American markets and fairs that feature tribal music. The Native American Indian Market, held annually in Sarasota, Florida offers music, dance, food, arts and crafts and other Native American culture. This event, held during three days in early December, also features flute makers, bead artist and leather crafters from a variety of Native American tribes. Each year, a featured entertainer brings the sounds of Native American culture to the market through singing, flute playing, drums and chanting. Past performances include Grammy award winning Native American, Allen Mose Jr. of the Navajo tribe. The Annual Seminole Tribal Fair in Hollywood, Florida provides a glimpse into the history of this tribe through warrior, hoop and fire dancers as well as Native American blues performances.
So, if you're visiting Florida this year, take time to enjoy some of the many Native American Music experiences available. It's a great way to learn a little more about Native American History and the indigenous people of the State of Florida.
Source:
M.C Bob Leonard. "Florida's First People." Gator Woman (Accessed August 2011).
Patti Richards - Patti Richards is a freelance writer and editor, former teacher, wife and mother of three. Patti writes children’s books and stories ...
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