NATCHEZ — Traditional American Indian dancing and singing will take place this weekend at the 27th annual Natchez Powwow at the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians.

After more than 3,500 people attended the event last year, the celebration will continue again this Saturday and Sunday on the site where Natchez Indians once gathered.

“The whole town is here because of the Natchez Indian tribe,” Dr. Chuck Borum said, who is a Natchez physician and chairman for the event. “That Natchez site is special, especially because the Natchez Indian tribe were one of the last of their culture to practice mound building.”

Craft and food booths at the Grand Village will open at 10 a.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. Sunday.

The gourd dance, a type of Native American celebration dance and ceremony, begins at 1 and 7 p.m. Saturday, with the grand entry and intertribal dancing beginning at 2 and 8 p.m.

The gourd dance will also take place at 1 p.m. Sunday, with the grand entry and intertribal dancing beginning at 2 p.m.

Tribes represented during the event will include the Choctaw, Comanche, Natchez, Ottawa and Kiowa.

Borum sets a goal to get different individuals involved in the event every year, which is why Chad Tahchawwickah of Lawton, Okla., who is a stand-up comedian, will serve as master of ceremonies this weekend.

“We are looking forward to having him as he entertains the crowd with comedy,” Borum said.

Grand Village Director Lance Harris, who took over as director of the historical site in January, has traveled to Natchez since he was 15 to attend the Powwow.

“For more than a quarter century, the Natchez Powwow has been an important cultural link promoting and honoring our American Indian heritage,” Harris said. “We are proud to participate in this event that continues the dynamic nature of American Indians.”

Powwow participants are allowed to camp on the grounds and those who attend are required to bring their own seating.

Entrance to the Powwow costs $5 for adults and $3 for children under 12.

The Grand Village is located on 400 Jefferson Davis Blvd. in Natchez.