Background illustration by Mark Normand, Photos and design by Scott McKie B.P./One Feather staff
By SCOTT MCKIE B.P.
ONE FEATHER STAFF
Summer is a big time for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Kids are out of school, the days are longer, and there are a lot of events to keep everyone busy.
“The entertainment options in Cherokee this summer are nothing less than phenomenal,” said Jason Lambert, EBCI Commerce Division director. “There is something for everyone, both local and visitor. We hope that people will come to see all that Cherokee has to offer and extend their stay in our community.”
Brooks Robinson, Harrah’s Cherokee senior vice president and general manager, commented, “Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort has something for everyone to enjoy from now until Labor Day. From concerts by Billy Idol, Miranda Lambert, Trace Adkins and The Black Crowes to a $150,000 free slot play giveaway on July 13 to the Ultimate Elvis Contest. Every Wednesday in July, we will be giving away either cash or a car or $50,000 in free slot play. This summer is going to be one of the most exciting ever at Harrah’s Cherokee!”
Health Celebration Fair
When: June 27 from 10am – 2pm
Where: Oconaluftee Island Park
What: A celebration of good health sponsored by EBCI Health & Medical. This is for all ages and will include interactive booths, physical activities, games, prizes, drawings, information, health screenings, and giveaways. The theme is Hawaiian Luau so be sure to wear your Hawaiian attire.
Info: Belinda Wilson, RN, PHN, Community Health, 554-6879
Harrah’s Cherokee Events Center summer shows
Where: Harrah’s Cherokee Events Center
- Billy Idol, June 21 at 9pm
- Gary Allan, June 28 at 9pm
- Ultimate Elvis Contest, July 13 at 7:30pm
- Miranda Lambert, July 19 at 9pm
- The Black Crowes, Aug. 2 at 9pm
- Trace Adkins, Aug. 10 at 7:30pm
- Hank Williams Jr., Sept. 1 at 7:30pm
To purchase tickets: (800) 745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com
Cherokee Runners 3rd Annual Sunset 5K Run/Walk & Fun Run
When: July 4, Fun Run at 7:15pm, 5K at 7:45pm
Where: The start and finish is at the Cherokee Indian Fairgrounds. The 5K run will go through downtown Cherokee, to the traffic light at Casino Trail and back to the Fairgrounds.
Info: stphswimmer@aol.com or gerrgrady@yahoo.com to have registration form emailed or register online: https://beta.active.com/cherokee-nc/running/races/4th-of-july-sunset-5k-racerunwalk-2013-9655
July 4 Fireworks
When: July 4 at dark
Where: Acquoni Expo Center
Info: Howard Wahnetah, 554-6471, howawahn@nc-cherokee.com
9th Annual Festival of Native Peoples
When: July 12-13 starting at 11am daily
Where: Cherokee Indian Fairgrounds
Cost: Adults $10, children six and under are free
Info: Info: Howard Wahnetah, 554-6471, howawahn@nc-cherokee.com
Cherokee Mid-Summer Fishing Tournament
When: July 12-14
Where: Cherokee Enterprise Waters
Info: Robert Blankenship, 497-5520, robeblan@nc-cherokee.com
Big Game Banquet
When: July 27 at 5pm
Where: Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Hotel Ballroom
What: The Great Smoky Mountains Chapter of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation is hosting this event which will include a live auction, silent auction, raffles, door prizes, and dinner.
Cost: $45 , the deadline for a reservation is July 24. No tickets will be available at the door.
Info: (828) 506-3308
12th Annual Talking Trees Children’s Trout Derby
When: Aug. 3
Where: Oconaluftee Island Park
Info: Marsha Jackson 497-1898, Mary Hornbuckle 497-1826, www.cherokeetroutderby.com
Blueberry Festival
When: Aug. 10
Where: Cherokee Indian Fairgrounds
Info: Carmaleta Monteith 497-2717, carmaleta@msn.com
Volkswagen Show
When: Aug. 10 from 10am – 5pm
Where: Acquoni Expo Center
Cost: $5 for spectators, $20 to register a vehicle
Info: Cherokee Welcome Center (800) 438-1601
Open Air Indian Market
When: Aug. 31 from 9am – 4pm
Where: Qualla Arts & Crafts Mutual, Inc.
What: Meet the artists from Qualla Arts & Crafts Mutual, Inc. and buy directly from them. Music, food, storytelling
Cost: Free
Info: Qualla Arts & Crafts 497-3103, darneach@quallaartsandcrafts.org, Vicki@quallaartsandcrafts.org
Cherokee “End of Summer” Fishing Tournament
When: Sept. 6
Where: Cherokee Enterprise Waters
Info: Mary Hornbuckle 497-1826
