By Chelly Bouferrache
For Lebanon Local
Lebanon’s first Willamette Valley Powwow, a lively celebration of Native American culture, drew a considerable and enthusiastic crowd to the Boulder Falls Event Center on May 31.
Organized by the Native American Education Program of the Lebanon Community School District, the event brought together dancers, drummers, elders and families from tribes across the region. Attendees from around the state filled the venue, wearing traditional regalia, playing Native drums and sharing cultural pride through song, dance, food and art.
“This powwow was a dream come true for our Native community here in Lebanon,” said Laurie Regalado, powwow coordinator and district Native American education facilitator.
“We hoped for a good turnout, but we were absolutely blown away by the support. It shows how much this community values and wants to experience Native culture.”
The event featured performances by the host drum, Dustin Harmon of Bad Soul, and the honor drum, Turquoise Pride, led by James Thinn. The emcee was Bob Tom and the arena director, who controls the protocols on the floor, was Kieran Hill.
The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Color Guard and the Native American Cultural Association from Flagstaff added ceremonial honor, while day drums like Healing Spirit and Aztec dancers from Maya also entertained the audience.
The powwow also honored graduating Native seniors from Lebanon High School – Kimora Martinez, Grayson Farr and Carlo Villafana Garcia.
More than 50 vendors were present at the inaugural event, offering food, beads, Native American jewelry, ribbon skirts and art, showcasing local craftsmanship and cuisine.
Regalado indicated the strong attendance fostered a deep sense of unity.
“The unity, pride and joy felt throughout the day will stay with us always,” she said.
Regalado thanked sponsors like the Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund, Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde and local businesses, along with the Lebanon school district and numerous volunteers.
The success of the event has organizers hoping to plan a larger powwow for 2026.
“We’ve already outgrown our venue,” Regalado said. “We dreamed of this becoming a two- to three-day event in a larger space, and after Saturday (May 31), it’s clear that dream is within reach.”
For more information, contact Laurie -Regalado at [email protected].
