Elaina Cook (Wolf Clan), 19, has been selected to serve as the Oneida Princess for the Six Nations Agricultural Society Indian Village at the 2025 New York State Fair. This year marks Oneida Year at the Village, giving Elaina a unique opportunity to take on a central role in promoting Oneida culture, history, and traditions. As Princess, she will represent the Oneida Indian Nation, lead social dances on the Turtle Mound, and welcome visitors as a cultural ambassador.

As an accounting student at Mohawk Valley Community College, Elaina balances her education with work at the Nation’s SāvOn Convenience Store at Dream Catcher Plaza in Oneida. She will celebrate her 20th birthday during the Fair.

“I wanted to be Princess to represent my Nation and set a good example for other Oneida youth,” Elaina shared. “I want them to be proud of who they are and proud of their heritage.” A familiar face at the Indian Village, she often assists her mother, Mary Homer, in selling traditional beadwork and crafts at local fairs and events.

Elaina was honored and surprised to be chosen for the role. “At first, I didn’t really believe it. I thought, ‘Is this really happening?’ Now, I’m trying to prepare—it’s been a lot of work,” she said. Fortunately, she has the support of her close-knit family. Her sisters, mother, grandmother Rose Tompkins, and cousins Monica and Marsha are all helping prepare her regalia, including dresses, a sash, and a yoke. Elaina is also crafting some of her own beadwork, including a handmade barrette.

As Oneida Princess, Elaina will participate in daily programming at the Indian Village, greeting guests, sharing her cultural knowledge, and taking part in traditional dance presentations.

“The Oneida Indian Nation is honored to have Elaina serve as this year’s Princess for the Six Nations Agricultural Society Indian Village,” said Oneida Indian Nation Representative Ray Halbritter. “Coming together with the other Haudenosaunee Nations to share our rich history, culture, and hospitality reflects the enduring values of peace, unity, and friendship that our people have upheld since time immemorial.”

Elaina’s connection to the Indian Village runs deep. She’s been involved since childhood, helping at her mother’s booth in the Women’s Building for as long as she can remember—even before she was born.

“My grandpa once told my mom to stay put at the booth while he stepped out for a few minutes. But my mom smelled kettle corn, stepped out just a few feet to track it down—and her water broke,” Elaina recounted with a laugh. “I was born the next morning.”

Elaina first entered the Smoke Dance competition in the Village at age 12 and has returned several times since. She is proud to represent the Oneida Indian Nation and looks forward to celebrating and sharing her culture with visitors throughout the Fair.

The 2025 New York State Fair runs from Wednesday, August 20 through Monday, September 1. Social dances at the Turtle Mound in the Indian Village take place daily at 11:00 a.m., 4:00 p.m., and 7:00 p.m. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Haudenosaunee foods at the Soup House, known for offering some of the Fair’s most affordable meals.

Key Events:

  • Oneida Day at the Village: Wednesday, August 27, featuring a special cultural program on the Turtle Mound at 2 p.m.
  • Smoke Dance Competition: Friday, August 29 at 3:00 p.m. (Native American/Six Nations Day – free admission to the Fair for members of federally recognized tribes)