WILSON -- The 17th annual gathering of the Potawatomi Nation is in full swing at the Woodland Valley Gathering Grounds in Wilson.

The event is a gathering of the Potawatomi Nations from around the U.S. and even Canada.  Over 1,500 people have attended so far.

Some of the cultural activities included a tepee erecting demonstration, warrior games, and ash basket making, but the most important thing was the continuation of the native language.

"The language is very involved in this gathering," said coordinator Gloria Wandahsega.  "At this time, at the casino, the language conference is going on.  We have fluent speakers down there teaching the language at workshops, and our language is very important because without our language, we would not be here."

Candidates for the Miss Potawatomi Pageant will dance during Friday's pow-wow.

The gathering runs through Saturday and is open to the public.