• May 24-25 — Memorial Day Powwow. Native drums and chants, the masterful movements of champion Indian dancers in competition and exhibition, and the sinuous flash of blazing regalia. Held at the Cherokee Indian Fairgrounds. Contact: Loretta Kirby, 828.497.8128.

• June 6-8 — Gourd Festival. A gathering of master gourd crafters, eager novices and everyone in between. Highly affordable classes, demonstrations, displays, vendors and plenty of top-quality gourds to choose among. Contact: Darlene Whitetree, 828.497.9131 ext. 238.

• July 4-6 — July Annual Powwow. Authentic Indian dancing, drumming and tribal regalia. Dance competitions kick the excitement up even higher. Held at the Cherokee Indian Fairgrounds. Contact: Loretta Kirby, 828.497.8128.

• July 17-19 — Festival of Native Peoples. This annual gathering of tribes from throughout the Americas features a showcase of native dance, art and culture. The Festival of Native Peoples is an exposition of non-competitive dance, storytelling and song performances expressing the collected history, culture, tradition and wisdom of the indigenous peoples of the Americas. For 2008, juried artisans will also display, show and sell their beautiful work. Held at the Cherokee Indian Fairgrounds. 877.433.6700.

• Aug. 2 — Talking Trees Children’s Trout Derby. This trout derby entertains and thrills an average of 1,000 children annually. Featuring fly-tying exhibitions, fish-cleaning stations, food, music, door prizes and trophies, the derby is free for children ages 11 and under. Held at the Oconaluftee River near the Cherokee Indian Fairgrounds. Contact: Lisa Wolfe, 828.497.8126.

• Oct. 7-12 — Cherokee Indian Fair — This nearly century-old celebration includes artwork, crafts, agricultural items and traditional food items made by local artisans. Top entertainment complements the event. Held at the Cherokee Indian Fairgrounds. Contact: Loretta Kirby, 828.497.8128.