Cherokee heritage comes alive during festival

The Cherokee Homestead Exhibit in Hayesville was alive with Cherokee Indian demonstrations, dancing, music, and storytelling on Saturday, Sept. 17. Smoke from a small fire filled the air and flute music filtered out of the winter house. The aroma of frybread tempted the appetite of many attending the festival.

 Jim Bigwitch, first-time festival attendee reported to his long-time friend Rob Tiger, “You all have really done something special here,” referring to the Cherokee Homestead Exhibit and festival. Bigwitch, along with family members from Cherokee agreed, “We are extremely impressed. You and the community have done yourselves and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians proud.”