NIOBRARA, Neb. — On a land rich with history, the Ponca Tribe celebrated their 29th annual Powwow over the weekend and organizers said the Powwow gives a chance for tribe members to gather on their native land.

Ponca Tribe of Nebraska Director of Cultural Affairs Richard Wright Jr. said the event at the tribe’s Powwow grounds welcomes tribe members across the country back to the original land of the tribe.

“This is a very sacred area to us,” Wright Jr. said. “A lot of our ancestors are all around this area so it’s definitely like a homecoming for us.”

The tribe celebrated the 29th year of the Powwow with traditional and modern Native American food, crafts, dances, and the Grand Entry, a traditional dance to welcome all to the Powwow.

Wright Jr. said this provides a good opportunity for the tribe to showcase their culture and heritage over the weekend. He encourages all Nebraskans to participate in celebrating the culture by attending the Powwow.

“This is definitely something for all of the community to come out, experience culture, and get to witness that,” Wright Jr. said. “We definitely are open to always sharing that with others.”

Over the weekend, events featured included a fun run, cornhole tournament, and a team dance contest.

With an archery range, a horseshoe tournament, and another grand entry on Sunday, Wright Jr. said the Powwow shows the tribe is still present in Nebraska and wants everyone to experience the celebration.

“It’s something that might be a little bit different…” Wright Jr. said. “Out of the ordinary for most Americans or even Nebraskans. And so, I think it’s something that’s right here in your backyard and, if you don’t know much about it, it’s really the place to be and come experience that for yourself.”

Visit the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska's Facebook for more information and updates for Sunday's events.