Tamkaliks Celebration (Pow Wow)

Tamkaliks is a three day celebration of traditional Native American culture. It is also a place and time where local people can observe and learn about that culture and a bridge of friendship between the former and present inhabitants of the Wallowa County. For three days we have traditional Native American songs and dances. The traditional wear of the dancers is spectacular. Outside the dance area we have 25-35 concessionaires selling food, Native American crafts and other items. Along the river the participants camp during the pow wow, many setting up teepees. The sight of teepees along the river after many years' absence is wonderful. On the last day of the festival we have the friendship feast. The Native American community provides salmon, deer and elk and locals bring pot luck dishes. For the deer and elk a group of Indians come early and exercise their treaty rights by hunting for the game for the feast. A local committee prepares the fish and game.