For the last 10 years, a community coalition in Menominee County has coordinated a safe alternative to ringing in the New Year with alcohol.
This year will be no different as Menominee Indian High School hosts the Menominee Sobriety Pow-wow, including a free feast consisting of turkey, wild rice and corn soup, on New Year’s Eve. The event kicks off at 5 p.m. Wednesday.
It will be the first year the event has been held at MIHS. It was previously held at the Menominee Tribal School in Neopit.
Randy Chevalier, planning committee member, said the New Year’s Eve alcohol-free program was spearheaded by one of its 14 sponsors, Maehnowesekiyah Wellness Center in Keshena.
“Many community members wanted to offer an alternative to drinking alcohol to celebrate the new year,” said Chevalier, who noted 400 to 500 people attend each year.
The event will feature exhibition, traditional and spot dances produced by head dancer Wesley Martin and youth head dancers Shania Teller and Daunte Lyons. There will be a grand entry at 7 p.m., as well as a drum contest and music.
“Attendees can expect a great evening of food, cultural music and dancing, bringing in the new year in a positive and healthy way,” Chevalier said. “I always have a great time. I especially like to see the young people choosing to celebrate their new year in a cultural way.”
The event is open to the public.
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