The Wyoming Trail Council of Pennsylvania’s Native Americans will be hosting a festival and powwow on July 18 and 19 on the grounds of the historic Hofford Mill at 500 Bridge St., Weissport.

This event named “The Return to Gnadenhutten Intertribal Native American Festival and PowWow” will allow festivalgoers to remember the Gnadenhutten Massacre that took place in what is now modern-day Lehighton. The event is open to the public.

On Saturday it will begin at 10 a.m. and run until a time to be determined.

On Sunday, the hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Grand entry will be at noon both days.

American Indians of many tribes will be representing their styles of ancient and modern dance while wearing the regalia associated with the dances and tribal customs.

Grand entry begins with all dancers entering the dance arena led by flag bearers carrying the American flag, POW/MIA flags and the Native American staff of the Wyoming Trail Council of Pennsylvania’s Native Americans.

After the flags will be the head male dancer and female dancer who lead all the dancers.

The second dance of grand entry is a flag song to salute or honor the flags.

The final song of grand entry is the veterans dance to honor all veterans of all races throughout all the conflicts in American history, as well as first responders.

At the start of that dance, all veterans, followed by first responders, from the public are invited into the circle to be honored.

At the conclusion of grand entry, the entire day’s dancing will commence, with many different dances performed, some of which are old traditional style and some social dances. At many dances throughout the day, the public is invited to participate.

All around the dance circle will be Native American vendors selling their handcrafts, which usually include blankets, furs, jewelry, knives and art.

A tricky tray tent will also be featured.

Proceeds from the event will benefit The Wyoming Trail Council. People can bring lawn chair or blankets.

For more information or to make donations, contact Robin Summerbird Hoffman, 570-436-2390; or Bonnie Becker, 484-892-0148.

Donations can also be mailed to WSM at 292 Buck Mt. Road, Weatherly, PA 18255. Make checks payable to WSM.