The grand entry led by the whip man, the eagle staff and the American flag serves as a prelude to the dance contests as the various dancers follow Saturday, July 23, 2022, during the 30th annual Tamkaliks Celebration in Wallowa.

WALLOWA — The Nez Perce Wallowa Homeland is hosting the 32nd annual Tamkaliks Celebration and Friendship Potluck on July 19-21.

The public and tribal members from around the Northwest are invited to join a family-friendly, alcohol- and drug-free weekend of dancing, feasting and ceremonies in Wallowa. Free RV and tent camping are available on the grounds of the Homeland, 209 E. Second St. in Wallowa.

The event dates back to 1989, when Taz Conner, a descendant of Old Chief Joseph, worked with local volunteers to establish this celebration, fostering friendship and healing between the Nez Perce people and the Wallowa County community. It is a reunion for descendants of the original inhabitants of waláwa (the Wallowa country) and a way for Wallowa residents to welcome Indigenous people of this valley back to their ancestral home.

Each dance session begins with the grand entry, a procession led by flag bearers, featuring traditional songs and prayers. This is followed by a victory song, during which the Eagle staff and flags are placed into their standards.

In the dance contest, competitors showcase their skills and traditional regalia, and are judged on footwork, rhythm, agility and personal style. They compete against each other and with drummers and singers: Drum groups may perform trick songs with surprise stops, and the best dancers stay on beat and hit every stop.

Fred Hill and Thomas Morningowl will serve as emcees.

The event includes food and homemade crafts from vendors. Raffle items include a buffalo hide and a Pendleton blanket.

Here’s the schedule:

Friday, July 19

7 p.m.: Roll call at the Dance Arbor, followed by social dancing (points for participation in regalia).

Saturday, July 20

9 a.m.: Horse procession.

1 p.m.: Grand entry; contest and social dancing.

7 p.m.: Grand entry; contest and social dancing.

Sunday, July 21

9 a.m.: Walasit services at Wallowa Longhouse

12:30 p.m.: Friendship Potluck at Dance Arbor. This feast features first foods like salmon, bison, and elk complemented by potluck dishes. Attendees are encouraged to bring a dish to share.

2 p.m.: Grand entry; final contest and social dancing; contest dance finale.

Memorial and naming ceremonies will take place on Friday and Saturday mornings.

For more information, go to the website wallowanezperce.org/tamkaliks