Nanabah Aragon (Dine/Navajo), holds a Navajo rug weaving demonstration at the Red Rock State Park exhibition hall. Nanabah was part of the opening festivities kicking off the 91st Annual Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial, Gallup, NM. (Sam Tsosie/The Navajo Post)

Church Rock, NM – The 91st Annual Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial opened with a free preview night, held at Red Rock State Park just outside of Gallup, NM.  This event coincided with an annual wine tasting , which could be enjoyed for a $20 admission fee.

The convention center/exhibition hall where the preview night was held was almost filled to capacity as locals and travelers alike perused the displayed local art from Navajo woven rugs to native american jewelry.  Award winning pottery was  featured and many local businesses and artisians had booths set up and were interacting with the visitors.

The five ceremonial queen contestants were also in attendance, mingling with crowd and hoping to win their favor. The judging for the contest was scheduled for later in the evening. A youth rodeo was the only outdoor event planned and ran well into the night.

The 91st ceremonial will run from August 8th to the 11th. The pow-wow has been moved to a later date in September.  More information can be found at: http://www.theceremonial.com.