Cherokee Blog

Don't miss the 103rd annual Indian Fair at the Cherokee Indian Fairgrounds, October 6-10. In addition to food, agricultural competitions, rides, games, and entertainment, there's a little something for everyone, including authentic music, art, dance, and cultural demonstrations like archery, blowgun, and stickball. Tickets are available for purchase at the gate and children 5 and under are admitted for free.  

Freddy Winoty II is a Cherokee native and the lead singer for the dance performances that happen twice daily at the Oconaluftee Indian Village. With a long, rich legacy of art in his family, Freddy has made a name for himself in his own art and performance work. Meet Freddy for yourself and see why he says that his work isn't just about entertaining--it's about living out his Cherokee culture every single day. 

The Oconaluftee Indian Village is a living history museum replicating a small Cherokee town in the 1790s. Watch live demonstrations from finger weaving, beadwork, basket weaving, making weaponry--including the ever-popular blowgun demonstration--and more, plus catch one of two live dances performed daily. Find out for yourself why the Village was awarded another Certificate of Excellence based on outstanding customer reviews. You have until November 7th to catch the action. 

On August 29th, from 9 am to 4 pm, the 13th annual Open Air Indian Art Market will be held outside Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual. Visitors can meet some of the member artists, shop their wares, and enjoy live craft demos including beadwork, woodwork, stone carving, jewelry making, basket weaving, and pottery. There will also be live music during the day, and traditional Cherokee dinners for sale made by members of the North American Indian Women's Association (NAIWA). The event is free and open to the public.

There's still time to catch Unto These Hills before the season finale on August 15th. Reserve your tickets today and watch the drama unfold under the stars in the historic Mountainside Theater. Since 1950, over 6 million people have seen the performance, which is one of the most beloved attractions in Cherokee. Unto These Hills follows the story of the Cherokee up through the Trail of Tears, in a stirring performance that combines song, dance, and plenty of action. Mike Crowe, who has acted in the drama for the last 10 seasons, says it's more than a performance, it's a calling. Read on to find out why.