Connecticut powwow to salute food, arts, culture

NORTH STONINGTON, Conn. - The Mashantucket Pequot may be best known as the owners of Foxwoods, one of North America's largest casinos. But this Thursday through Sunday the tribe will turn the spotlight on Native American song, dance, crafts, and food at Schemitzun, the "Feast of Green Corn and Dance." Called the largest powwow on the East Coast, the annual event, in its 13th year, features drumming and dance competitions, a rodeo, and craft demonstrations.

Representatives from a variety of Eastern tribes will be on hand in the outdoor Woodland Village, demonstrating how their ancestors grew and prepared food, used tools, played traditional games, and passed on their history through stories around the fire. In the Indian Marketplace, artisans will work on crafts such as beaded jewelry, sweetgrass baskets, and moccasins.

A juried art competition will recognize the finest compositions in pottery, sculpture, painting, and other fine arts. And visitors can sample traditional food, such as fish chowder and buffalo.

Schemitzun, Aug. 21-24, 10 a.m.-10 p.m., 91 Wintechog Hill Road, 800-224-2676. sche mitzun.com. Adults $8, seniors $4, children ages 4-11 $4; four-day pass $20; separate rodeo admission $5 for ages 4 and older. Onsite parking and free shuttle service from Foxwoods and MGM Grand.

ELLEN ALBANESE