The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians will host a colorful and dramatic Festival of Native Peoples Sept. 23 and Sept. 24 in Cherokee.

The festival will bring together representatives from various Indian tribes across the United States for two days of dancing, singing, dramatic performances in traditional attire, storytelling, art exhibitions and music produced by authentic handmade instruments. The event also will feature a celebration of Native American cuisine and artists selling a wide range of arts and crafts.

The festival is the first event of its kind, not only in North Carolina but in the Southeastern United States. Organizers see it as a time of sharing among various tribes and an opportunity to educate visitors about the history and traditions of the Cherokee people and other tribes.

“The festival will help us bring our cultures together and celebrate today’s Native American tribes,” said George Lambert, marketing and public relations manager for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

Groups performing at the festival will include the Yellow Bird Indian Dancers of the Apache Tribe in Arizona; world-renowned flute player Fernando Cellicion and the Traditional Zuni Dancers from New Mexico; and Cherokee’s own Warrior Dancers will present their Ceremonial Dance. Other festival participants will include the Seneca, Tewa and Alaskan Alutiiq tribes.

The event will take place from 2 to 9 p.m. Sept. 23 and from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sept. 24 at the Cherokee Indian Fairgrounds on U.S. 441 North in Cherokee. Additional information about The Festival of Native Peoples, including event schedules and ticket prices, is available at www.cherokee-nc.com or from the Cherokee Welcome Center at 800.438.1601.