Thousands celebrate Native American culture at Hopkinsville's annual Trail of Tears PowWow

The sounds of beating drums and bells adorning Native American dancers could be heard throughout Hopkinsville's Trail of Tears Commemorative Park this past weekend as thousands gathered for an annual celebration of Indigenous culture.

The 38th annual Trail of Tears PowWow highlighted Native American culture through its dancing competitions, food, vendors and unique learning experiences – such as a traditional tipi exhibit that displays and teaches attendees about historic Native artifacts.

Roughly 40 Indigenous tribes were represented in this year's dancing competition – some of which came from as far as Canada to compete according to event organizers.

Vickie Hindsley is a member of the Ho-Chunk Nation from Wisconsin. She said that even after touring powwows for decades across the conti