CSULB's annual Pow Wow, an American Indian social celebration, returns to the campus' central quad on Saturday and Sunday, March 12-13. Admission and parking are free.

The 35th annual two-day event, which will feature American Indian dancing, arts, crafts and food, begins at 11 a.m. each day and runs until 10 p.m. on Saturday and 7 p.m. on Sunday.

This year's featured artists scheduled to appear include 2d artist Jesse Hummingbird (Cherokee), 2d and sculpture artist Alvin John (Dine'), silversmith Brad Panteah (Zuni/Dine'), gourd artist David Snooks (Washoe), silversmiths Frank and Evelyn Chee (Dine'), and returning, from last year, Larry Pacheco (Santo Domingo) and Leroy Begay (Dine'). In addition, silversmith Allen Boyd (Dine') will give demonstrations.

“We are excited about the artists we have coming in this year,” said Craig Stone, professor of art and American Indian Studies at CSULB and faculty advisor to the campus' American Indian Student Council and Pow Wow. “We are making an effort to have a wider cross-section of artists so that we might appeal to a larger audience.”

In addition to contests and inter-tribal dancing, there will be Gourd dancing with registration closing at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 12. All dancers and drums are invited.

Native foods such as corn soup, Navajo tacos, fry bread and buffalo burgers will be on sale at the event, and American Indian vendors will be selling both traditional and contemporary American Indian art.

The largest spring event of its kind in Southern California, the Pow Wow at Cal State Long Beach is focused on displaying the university's strong American Indian presence.

The event is presented by CSULB's American Indian Studies Department, American Indian Student Council, Native American Alumni and Friends Chapter, the Division of Student Services, 49er Shops Inc., and Associated Students Inc.

For more information about the 35th annual Pow Wow celebration, call 562/985-8528 or 562/985-4963.

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