Parades, powwows and rodeos: 103rd Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial in full swing

By Nolan Bruno
Navajo Times

GALLUP

A century-old tradition returns this week as the 103rd Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial continues its celebration of Native American culture, art and community with packed events through Sunday, Aug. 10, at Red Rock Park and downtown Gallup.

The annual event showcases tribal identity through dances, fashion shows, artwork and rodeos, drawing participants from across Indian Country.

On Thursday, Aug. 7, the exhibit hall opens at 10 a.m., followed by the “World Famous Night Parade” at 7:30 p.m. in downtown Gallup. The same night, the “Open Rodeo Roughstock Buckout” begins at 8:30 p.m. at the main arena.

The following day, Friday, Aug. 8, will feature traditional talent presentations, a fashion show, and vendor marketplace. Evening events include the first performance of the open rodeo at 1:30 p.m., the Miss Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial and little miss coronation at 7 p.m., and a traditional night dance at 9:30 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 9, starts early with the morning parade at 9 a.m. Roads along the route will close beginning at 4 a.m., according to the city of Gallup. Events throughout the day include a Navajo song and dance program, the Inter-Tribal Skate Jam, and the second open rodeo performance at 1:30 p.m.

The final day, Sunday, Aug. 10, begins at 10 a.m. with a cowboy church service, followed by song and dance performances, the wooly riding pre-show, and the Open Rodeo Top 10 Short-Round. The day wraps with the Old School Days Rodeo. Admission is free to the first 500 seniors over age 60, courtesy of Walmart and Coca-Cola.

Powwow competitions presented by Discover Navajo are scheduled throughout the weekend, bringing together dancers from more than 15 tribes. The event also includes the traditional night dance performances, the Iron Cowgirl Challenge, and displays of authentic art, rugs, and jewelry at the exhibit hall.

To manage the expected crowds, Gallup officials, working with McKinley County and the state of New Mexico, have put road closures in place and established safety measures for the parades. Vehicles parked along the parade routes after the posted deadlines will be towed at the owner’s expense, and access to businesses within the parade perimeter will be limited to foot traffic.

Attendees can opt-in for live event notifications by texting “Gallupevent” to 888777 for parade updates or “RRP24” to 888777 for Red Rock Park alerts.
Information: gallupceremonial.com, 505-863-3896.

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