TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — The 70th Annual Cherokee National Holiday is back and in-person this year!

The Cherokee National Holiday draws more than 100,000 visitors from across the country. The Cherokee National Holiday commemorates the signing of the Cherokee Nation Constitution in 1839, which re-established the tribe’s government in Indian Territory after forced removal from the Cherokees’ original homelands in the Southeast.

The annual celebration was adapted in 2020 and 2021 to include a number of virtual and limited in-person events because of the pandemic.

This weekend new fishing tournament, cornhole competitions, the return of traditional games, an inter-tribal powwow, softball tournaments and other long-time favorites.

The Cherokee National Holiday commemorates the signing of the Cherokee Nation Constitution in 1839, which re-established the tribe’s government in Indian Territory after forced removal from the Cherokees’ original homelands in the Southeast.

The Cherokee National Holiday will also continue to provide a number of virtual elements so Cherokee citizens who cannot attend the in-person activities can participate in the celebration online at www.thecherokeeholiday.com.

“As we join friends and family to commemorate this year’s celebration, we will focus not only on the legacy that the Cherokee people have forged throughout our history, but we will look ahead to the opportunities that are before us as Cherokee people, “ said Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr.

Unfortunately, Chief Hoskin announced this week he had tested positive for COVID-19 so it is uncertain if he will be able to attend in person or not.

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