2025 annual Theme
Gadugi: Unity Through Generations
The theme of the 73rd annual Cherokee National Holiday is “Gadugi – Unity Through Generations” (Cherokee: ᎦᏚᎩ – ᏌᏊ ᎢᏳᎾᎵᏍᏔᏅ ᎤᏂᎦᏛᎴᏒ ᎤᎾᏓᏁᏟᏴᏒᏒᎯ). This theme honors continuing the traditions of our ancestors for the next seven generations. It recognizes our ancestors’ hard work for the common good which we continue. And it celebrates the sovereignty, steadiness and longevity of our nation.
Celebrated Yearly
Since 1953
The festival is jam-packed with cultural activities and events for all ages. Traditional games, competitions, handmade arts, crafts, food, dance and music hardly scratch the surface of what you can experience here.
New exhibits often debut at our national museums and restored historical sites this time of year. The Inter-Tribal Powwow, held on the Cherokee Nation Cultural Grounds, takes the celebration late into the night, as dancers from across the United States compete for top prizes and honors. Our elected leaders fulfill countless duties over Cherokee National Holiday. To know what our tribe is doing and what’s ahead of us, start by listening as the Principal Chief delivers the State of the Nation address. The Cherokee National Holiday is a festive time in Tahlequah, a time for family and friends.
We hope you are here with us every Labor Day weekend: until we meet again.
