The spirit of Christmas echoed through the Johnnie Ray McCauley Center in Newkirk, Oklahoma, as the Kaw Nation Tribal Christmas Party unfolded on the morning of December 17, 2023. This annual event brought together Kaw Nation families in a heartwarming celebration that has long been an incredible community gathering. The gymnasium, adorned with festive decorations, was nearly bursting at the seams with the incredible turnout of Kaw Nation families. The sense of unity and togetherness was a delight to see.
One of the highlights of the evening was the amazing spread provided by Stagecoach BBQ, a local favorite. The delicious assortment added a flavorful touch to the festivities, making the Christmas party a true feast for the senses. Adding a cultural flair to the gathering, students from the Kaw Nation Language Program treated attendees to a Holiday perfomrance in Kaá^ze Íe, the native language of the Kaw people.
As the anticipation built, the children’s eyes lit up with excitement when Santa Claus made a grand entrance. Each child had the opportunity to meet Santa and receive a carefully selected, age-relevant gift from Santa’s helpers. The joyous moments shared between the children and Santa added a magical touch to the evening, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.
The success of this year’s Kaw Nation Tribal Christmas Party would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of everyone who helped. A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who played a role in preparing and executing this memorable event. Their hard work and commitment ensured that Kaw Nation was able to come together for the holiday season. The 2023 Kaw Nation Tribal Christmas Party not only celebrated the spirit of Christmas but also strengthened the bonds within our community, fostering a sense of unity and pride that will undoubtedly endure throughout the coming year.
