GRAFTON, Mass. - Nipmuc Nation in Central Massachusetts celebrated their heritage with a powwow Sunday.

The gathering in Grafton served as a chance to showcase native food, crafts and culture. Organizers say this was their first real powwow since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and Sunday was a celebration of life and getting back to normal. Members of the tribe were dressed in their regalia and told stories through dance as they celebrated being Native American.

"I feel like this powwow is not only a healing thing for our nation, our people, our Nipmuc people, but it has been a healing thing for all the local tribes in the area," said Tribal Chair Tina Richardson. "Our sister tribes, they all came, and they're all expressing the whole excitement of being out and being together again. And being able to celebrate."

Organizers say they usually celebrate at the Hassanamesit Reservation.