30th Comanche Nation Fair recognizes historic legacy of ‘Lords of Southern Plains’

With this week’s 30th Annual Comanche Nation Fair, the “Spirit of the Buffalo — Rising Again” is more than a theme.

It’s a recognition of the historic legacy left to the oft-recognized Lords of the Southern Plains.

Events began taking shape this past weekend, but it’s the 7 p.m. peyote meeting today south of the dance arena at the Comanche Nation Tribal Complex, 9 miles north of Lawton, that the Numunu spirit truly begins this annual celebration.

As always, the southern entry to the tribal complex will be lined with Comanche tepees. On the grounds, the annual land run for families to find their encampment spots will begin; however, this year’s event will feature pre-registration for spots.

Annual events return except for the rodeo, softball tournament and music festival. There will be hand games, a horseshoe tournament, corn hole, a parade and hot dogs after the 10 a.m. parade through the complex.

Honor flags will be raised at 8 a.m. daily at the dance arena: Friday for Ron Parker, Saturday for Lewis Chasenah, and Sunday for George Red Elk.

The Comanche Nation Casino, 421 SE Interstate Drive, will host meet-and-greets at 6 p.m. Friday featuring Dallas Goldtooth and Zahn McClarnon, both from the Hulu series, “Reservation Dogs” and Janee Kassanavoid who won the silver medal in the women’s hammer throw at the 2023 World Track and Field Championships in Budapest.