AHOSKIE – If it’s late October, it’s time to retrace the steps of the beginnings of the Roanoke-Chowan area.

The Meherrin Indian Tribe welcomes the public to share in the unique culture of Native Americans when they play host to their 20th annual Pow Wow.

This celebration of the heritage of the local area is scheduled for Oct. 24-26 at the Meherrin Tribal grounds located on NC 11 between Ahoskie and Murfreesboro. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children ages 3-12.

The colorful “Grand Entry” by the Meherrins as well as other Native American tribes is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Oct. 24; 12 noon and 6 p.m. on Oct. 25 and 12 noon on Oct. 26.

Featured at this year’s event is Irene Bedard, the voice and likeness of Walt Disney’s beloved “Pocahontas” and “Deni” characters.

As it tradition, the Pow Wow features dancing, drumming and arts/crafts. The Aztec Dancers are also scheduled to make an appearance.

Concessions will be offered for sale throughout the event.

This wonderful weekend celebration is always full of the traditional sights, sounds, smells and tastes of Native America. Visitors to the Pow Wow will have the opportunity to see top dancers perform various styles of dance, all while adorned in the colorful regalia of their individual tribes. The brilliant colors alone are worth the price of admission.

Meanwhile, the beat of the drum will accompany the dancers as they enter the circle.

Limited seating is offered. Patrons are urged to bring lawn chairs.

On the property is a traditional Meherrin village, one that guests to the Pow Wow can experience first-hand. The village includes a traditional longhouse where guests can see how the Meherrins once lived.

For those wishing to experience all three days of the Pow Wow, primitive camping sites are available. No pets are allowed on the tribal grounds.

For more information, contact Chief Thomas Lewis at 252-398-3321 or Marcus Robbins, Pow Wow chairman, at 704-904-6221.