Local & Community
Morongo Thunder & Lightning Powwow Kicks Off This Weekend
The 2025 Morongo Thunder and Lightning Powwow kicks off September 26th on California Native American Day and runs through the weekend at Morongo Casino Resort and Spa.
The free, family-friendly event promises to be what organizers describe as a massive "family reunion," bringing together Indigenous communities from across the continent. Visitors can expect traditional dancing, powerful drum groups, arts and crafts, and authentic Native American cuisine.
A highlight of this year's powwow will be bird singing—a traditional art form unique to Southern California that uses rattles instead of drums. Cultural events coordinator Maria Lorenzo and language specialist Mark Levinson shared insights about this special tradition and what makes the weekend celebration so meaningful for both the Morongo Band of Mission Indians and the broader community.
With over 100 vendors expected and must-try foods like fry bread and Indian tacos, the event offers an authentic cultural experience designed to educate visitors and break down stereotypes about Native American communities.
The powwow features four "grand entries" throughout the weekend—described as spectacular "parades of colors" showcasing dancers from young children to elders, ensuring cultural traditions continue across generations.
Watch the full interview above to learn more about the cultural significance of bird singing, what visitors can expect, and why this celebration means so much to the local Indigenous community.
By: NBC Palm Springs
September 22, 2025
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