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were four stops along the route, each involving a dance
and a prayer. At each station, the crowd became quiet,
and the atmosphere became reflective and spiritual. At
the end of the procession, the dancers passed around a
peace pipe.
"is final day is only for Crow dancers," said the
woman standing next to me. "is sacred procession
and dance marks the end of the Crow Fair. Only after
it's performed can families and clans dismantle their
teepees and leave the grounds."
e feeling I came away with after the powwow
was one of deep respect for the Native American First
Nations People. I saw a real pride among the young
people, especially as they sang songs in their native
language with tremendous passion. I saw the same
deep commitment and respect expressed in the graceful
movements of the dancers as they told stories of their
ancestors.
Equally as captivating were the beautiful regalia,
all hand-made with elaborate feathers and jangling
bells, and hand-woven shawls and cloth with a wide
variety of symbolic patterns. Taking the opportunity to
ask questions of my new Crow neighbors and friends
about the meaning of the dances, other rituals and
symbols allowed me a rare glimpse into their world and
helped me to appreciate what a unique event the Crow
Fair really is. I will be back again this August, and hope
to see you there.
Crow Fair One Man Hand
Drum Contest:
www.distinctlymontana.com/crowfair173
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