Cherokee Blog

Cherokee in the fall is a thing of beauty; the mountain air gets cool and the leaves shine brightly in brilliant hues. There’s really no better time to take in the scenic beauty on foot, and lucky for walkers and runners of all speeds, there are two not-to-be-missed outdoor events: The Cherokee Harvest Half Marathon and 5K and the Turkey Strut 5K Walk/Run. 

If you’ve eaten the amazing food at the annual Cherokee Indian Fair or Qualla Arts and Crafts Open Air Indian Art Market, it’s likely that you’ve interacted with members of the Cherokee Chapter of the North American Indian Women’s Association (NAIWA) who often prepare the fare at large Cherokee events. But NAIWA is so much more than a group of talented cooks. It’s a nonprofit membership, educational, and service organization established in 1970.

The annual Cherokee Blue Ridge Run returns to the Cherokee Fair Grounds on September 7–9, with a jam-packed lineup that promises lots of “motorcycles, music, and cool stuff!” This three-day festival includes concerts, bike shows, stunt shows, artists, vendors, flat track, bike games, factory demo rides, tours, food trucks, and more.

At any age, artists bring their own perspective and experience to their craft. In addition to learning from those who came before, makers within the same generation can impact each other’s work. “Renewal of the Ancient: Cherokee Millennial Artists” will open September 1 at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian in Cherokee, NC. This new exhibit features more than 60 works from 18 artists who are members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, ages 40 and under.

The Kananesgi Fashion Show on Saturday August 25, 2018, 5–8pm, will showcase contemporary and traditional Cherokee designs by enrolled members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, with custom fabrics created by the artists. Vendors will also be selling their work. Come meet the makers, place custom orders, and enjoy some food after the show.