Rising Sun Pow Wow
Celebrate Native traditions through music, dance, and storytelling in partnership with the Nansemond Indian Nation.
2025 Applications Closed
Applications are no longer being accepted for this year. Please email PRSpecialEvents@VBgov.com and request to be on next year’s list.
Join us for the Rising Sun Pow Wow, a celebration of the Nansemond Tribe and Native American culture through music, intertribal drumming, dancing, and storytelling. Experience the traditions of the Nansemond people and learn about the significance of regalia, dances, and tribal heritage.
Date: Saturday, May 17
Time: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Location: Mount Trashmore Park
What to Expect:
Grand Entry at 12 PM – A beautiful procession of dancers representing the Nansemond Tribe and other Native American communities.
Live Performances – Drumming, singing, and cultural presentations.
Exhibitors & Vendors – Authentic Nansemond and Native American arts, crafts, and goods for sale.
Educational Displays – Learn about Nansemond history, traditions, and Native American culture.
Featured Guests:
Head Male Dancer: Will Richardson (Haliwa-Saponi)
Head Female Dancer: Morgan Richardson (Chickahominy)
Emcee: Keith Colston (Lumbee/Tuscarora)
Arena Director: Chris Fortune (Rappahannock)
Host Drum: War Paint (Lumbee, NC)
Guest Drum: Red Blanket (Bridgeton, NJ)
Fashion with a Purpose
Support culture, community, and the great outdoors with the official Rising Sun Pow Wow shirt! Proceeds benefit the Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation Foundation, helping fund programs, park improvements, and community events that make our city shine.
Know Before You Go:
Pow Wow is a social event celebrating the Native American culture through music, intertribal drumming and dancing, educational displays, and demonstrations.
-
Authentic and Indian-inspired arts and crafts will be available for purchase.
-
Free parking and free admission
-
Arena seating is limited; you’re welcome to bring your own chair.
-
For the safety of attendees and the performers, pets are NOT allowed in the event area. We encourage you to visit one of our 5 dog parks on this day and avoid Mount Trashmore Park.
-
Guests can expect loud noises, incenses, and regalia worn throughout the event area.
-
Out of respect, photos should not be taken of individuals in regalia without their permission.
Thank You to Our Event Partner:
Rising Sun Pow Wow
Special Thanks to
