Submitted Photo Big Martha, an Allman Brothers Band Experience, performs at the Tallchief Outdoor Music Celebration last September. This was the first event held at the Tallchief Event Center.

IRVING — As summer events begin to fill up calendars, J.C. Seneca, the owner of Tallchief Territory, will be hosting a few of those at the new Tallchief Outdoor Events Center, located behind Native Pride Travel Plaza.

That event schedule kicks into gear with an all-day dance festival, the Tallchief Territory Spring Smoke Dance contest. Beginning as a Six Nations tradition when men prepared for battle, the dances are now ceremonial, featuring competition from both men and women, while displaying signature footwork and athleticism. The day will also have Native foods, crafts, and art vendors.

“We’re calling it a mini pow wow for one day,” Seneca said. “A lot of the dancers we have go out on circuit and compete, so it will be a good competition. We invite everyone in the area to come out and join in on the fun. We’re looking forward to a big weekend.”

Registration for today’s (Saturday) event is at 9 a.m., with the event starting at 11 a.m. and going until 7 p.m., making for a full day of festivities.

But the events at Native Pride don’t end with the dance festival. In fact, the events actually started earlier this week. On Thursday, May 20, Native Pride hosted their first “Bike Night” of the summer, and will host them in June, July, and August, on the third Thursday of each month. Those events will feature classic rock music, an opportunity for bike enthusiasts to meet up, and a burnout competition.

“We’ll be playing Judas Priest, Ozzy, and all that good stuff,” Seneca said. “We have a burnout spot for people to do their best burnout, and the winner will get a tire from Gowanda Harley Davidson. And people can enjoy the camaraderie of bike enthusiasts, go out on the road, and meet old and new friends.”

On July 31, Seneca said that Native Pride will be hosting a health fair, promoting focused living and balance in people’s lives. This will have many local vendors in the healthcare field, as well as people experienced in native remedies and healing.

“Everybody wants to be in good physical health,” Seneca said. “But people also need to focus on mental, emotional, and spiritual health. To be able to live a healthy life, you have to be in balance of those four things.”

Finally, on Labor Day weekend, the Events Center will host their second annual outdoor music celebration, featuring acts like Shemekia Copeland, Joe Louis Walker, Miller and The Other Sinners, and many other acts. Tickets can be purchased on eventbright.com and the show will last from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m.

“We have a lot of fun planned for the local area and we’re inviting everyone in,” Seneca said. “We look forward to seeing everyone now that COVID restrictions are being lifted.”