Dancing and drumming competitions are a big part of the pow-wow, Oct. 5-6 at Live Oak Campground. (Courtesy photo)

Dancing, singing and drumming will be on display as Native American tribes from throughout North America celebrate their heritage during the 24th annual Chumash Inter-Tribal Pow-Wow Oct. 5-6 at Live Oak Campground, 4650 Highway 154, Santa Ynez.

The gathering will be held 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. A gourd dance at noon, followed by a grand entry at 1 p.m., will mark the start each day of the pow-wow, which is the largest cultural event of the year held by the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians.

“Our tribe takes a lot of pride in hosting this annual event,” said Kenneth Kahn, tribal chairman for the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. “It’s a time for tribes from across the U.S. and Canada to come together, celebrate our heritage and share elements of our culture with members of the public who would like to learn more about our traditions.”

The Chumash Pow-Wow attracts members of tribal nations from throughout North America to participate in dancing and drumming competitions. Dancing categories range in age from 70 years and older to Tiny Tots and include such styles such as traditional, straight, fancy, grass, jingle dress, buckskin, cloth and chicken.

More than $50,000 in prize money will be offered.

The pow-wow will also feature of informational booths, Native American arts and crafts and food booths.

The pow-wow is an annual effort of a committee of Chumash tribal volunteers who plan, organize and operate the event. The committee’s goal is to provide the community with educational and cultural experiences focusing on Native American music, arts and customs while promoting native self-reliance and pride.

The Chumash Inter-Tribal Pow-Wow is a zero-waste event. Guests are urged to bring their own reusable water bottles, support the event’s green vendors, and dispose of trash in the proper bins.

Admission is free. Parking costs $5. The camping fee is $35. For more information, call 805-688-7997 or visit santaynezchumash.org/powwow.html.

— Veronica V. Sandoval for the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians.