The world's largest gathering of Native Americans kicks off today in Albuquerque.
Tens of thousands of people, representing more than 700 tribes from North America and around the world, are expected to attend the 33rd annual Gathering of Nations, which starts today and runs through Sunday at WisePies Arena aka The Pit.
The event is expected to have a $20 million economic impact in the metro area, with hotels, restaurants and tourism-related businesses taking in the biggest haul. Mayor Richard Berry earlier this month encouraged residents to support the event.
The Gathering of Nations opens with the Miss Indian World competition on Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Albuquerque Convention Center. The new Miss Indian World will be crowned on Saturday evening.
The three-day event will include more than 3,000 traditional Native American singers and dancers competing and more than 800 Native American artisans, craftsmen and traders. Judith Hill, who performed with Michael Jackson and Prince and was a finalist on NBC's "The Voice," will perform Saturday.
View photos from 2015's Gathering of Nations in the attached slideshow.
Tickets, which start at $18, are available at www.gatheringofnations.com.