North America's largest powwow attracts thousands to New Mexico for celebration of culture

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Droves of Native American and other indigenous performers and spectators have converged in New Mexico for the 32nd annual Gathering of Nations, North America's largest powwow. Here are some things to know about the event:

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FROM FAR AND WIDE

More than 3,000 dancers, drummers and singers representing some 700 tribes from the United States and Canada typically attend the three-day festival in Albuquerque. The competitions also draw tens of thousands of spectators from around the world.

This year's celebration started Thursday.

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GRAND ENTRANCE

They don traditional costumes with colorful beads, feathers, fringed leather and bells. Their pounding feet keep time with beating drums as they funnel into the bottom of the University of New Mexico arena, better known as The Pit.

The participants join the procession in a specific order and then twist toward the arena's center. The formation gets tighter with each pass until the floor is packed.

Grand entries can last close to an hour.

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MISS INDIAN WORLD

They're judged on public speaking, dance, traditional presentations and more.

Current Miss Indian World Taylor Thomas will pass on the crown to this year's winner Saturday. The winner will spend the next year traveling internationally, serving as a role model and cultural ambassador.

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NATIVE YOUTH

This year's powwow was preceded by a special gathering to kick off a White House initiative called Generation-Indigenous, or Gen-I.

Some of the teens will reconvene this summer in Washington, D.C.

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ARTS AND EATS

Like any good gathering, the powwow has music, vendors and fry bread.

At the Indian Traders Market, more than 800 artisans and crafters show off their wares. On Stage 49 near the arena, Native American musicians perform a range of genres, including country, reggae, rap and rhythm and blues.

ECONOMICS

Organizers expect anywhere from 80,000 to 100,000 visitors, providing a boost to Albuquerque's hospitality industry.