Hundreds of participants and spectators took part in the 12th annual Natchez Powwow Saturday at the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians, with hundreds more expected to attend today.

On Saturday, spectators gathered around the circular arena in the early afternoon heat, watching intently as the Osage Gourd Dance Clan danced to the singing and thundering drum beats of Native American performers in the center of the ring.

Then they stood and applauded as traditional dancers in Native American dress, many adorned in brightly colored beads and feathers, made their grand entry into the ring, dancing in time with the drums.

&uot;We come here every year,&uot; said Pauline Tosie of Oklahoma, who attended with her father. &uot;The best part is seeing everyone.&uot;

Many friends Tosie saw this weekend are people she has met at the Natchez Powwow over the years.

Others made their way to more than 20 booths that sold Native American crafts, jewelry and clothing.

For Boy Scout Troop 169 of Baton Rouge, La., the Powwow was a chance to earn their Indian lore merit badges.

&uot;One of the requirements is that they make Indian craft items, so they’re at that booth now buying beads,&uot; said Chuck Maulden, an adult who accompanied the troop. They also visited the Grand Village’s Natchez Indian exhibits, fulfilling the history requirement for their badges.

The event attracts about 5,000 people each year, said Powwow Committee Chairman Chuck Borum, an admirer and student of Native American culture since his days as a Boy Scout in Natchez.