At this time the Gathering of Nations is set to celebrate the 25th annual Gathering of Nations Pow Wow. With more than 3000 Native American singers and dancers converging on the University of New Mexico Arena (the PIT) in Albuquerque New Mexico, April 24-26, 2008, this event is going to be huge. Attendance is expected to break all past records.
This pow wow, in a festive atmosphere features both traditional and competition singing and dancing along with the crowning of Miss Indian World.
In addition to the traditional song and dance the Gathering of Nations features many other activities. The Indian traders' Market in the big tent, along with the Native American food court on Pow Wow Alley are main-stays of this great event. At the South end of Pow Wow Alley is the restructured contemporary performance stage, "STAGE 49". Stage 49 is intended to provide a musical alternative to the pow wow, where Native musicians, story tellers, and other performers will have the oppertunity to showcase their talents before a major audience.
The 25th anniversary of the Gathering of Nations Pow Wow will be highlited on Friday April 25, 2008. That evening, along with the competition dancing, the pow wow will feature the return of the Pueblo Tribes of New Mexico, coming together in the pit to sing and dance as one. At Midnight the Gathering of Nations presents the "Midnight Special" Dance Competition, featuring the Men's Buckskin - Feathered War bonnets. Immediately following will be, on the arena floor, a late night concert by Ky-Mani Marley/friends and family. Ky-Mani is one of the many sons of the legendary Bob Marley.
On Thursday evening, April 24th, at the Albuquerque Convention Center will be the Miss Indian world Pageant. This pageant is not a beauty contest, but rather a demonstration of talent and traditional knowledge by the contestants. The pageant will be Co-hosted by Sonni Moreno, of the all Indian women singing group Ulali, and Ky-Mani Marley. A special musical performance will also be given by the very popular Native woman singer, Aragon star originally from Oklahoma. The Crowning of Miss Indian World will take place on Saturday evening, April 26th at the Gathering of Nations Pow Wow.