Rocky Boy to hold winter powwow

The Chippewa Cree Tribe of Rocky Boy's Indian Reservation will inaugurate the new year with a two-day winter powwow.

The Rocky Boy Winter Celebration will take place in Little Bear Gymnasium at Stone Child College.

The powwow will start with a grand entry of dancers at 7 p.m. Friday. Grand entries will also happen Saturday at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Dustin Whitford, member of the Chippewa Cree tribal council, said the powwow usually takes place on Christmas, but this year, because it would have coincided with other activities, it was moved to New Year's Day.

"So, starting January 1st, 2016, we're going to have something to start off this whole year," Whitford said.

The coming year is significant for Rocky Boy, marking a century since the reservation's founding.

Whitford said that throughout the year, he and others on the reservation hope to observe the anniversary with monthly events, the specifics of which have yet to be worked out.

Each grand entry this weekend will feature elders leading those in attendance in prayer, honoring the reservation.

"We want them to pray for the future of our tribe, of our land and our children while giving thanks to our last one hundred years," Whitford said.

A song that was composed by Chief Rocky Boy will be performed in his honor.

Those who participate will have the opportunity to take part in several styles of traditional native dance.

Though not as large as the reservation's annual summer powwow Whitford said, there will likely be some travelers from Canada and other areas at the celebration.

"So, it's a pretty good size powwow for a winter powwow," Whitford said.

Drum groups are encouraged to come, and those registered that are composed of five or more members will be paid.

The public is welcome to attend.