Whether known as big time, wacipi,  or gathering of nations, powwows are central to life in Indian Country, both in the United States and Canada. They bring people together and transmit all that we cherish. You can be sure that every weekend throughout the year somewhere, someplace there is a powwow about to begin or just finishing. Further,  each one will have it’s own special characteristic making it distinctively unique as those who attend them regularly can attest. You can read about  Wakpamni Lake Community annual ‘small but mighty’ wacipi here and you’ll see why it’s so dear to us. Whether you’ll be attending your first one or you participated in your first one in a cradleboard we offer five ways you can be transformed by your powwow experience.

Go Prepared

Sure, this will include checking dates and times at Powwows.com and CrazyCrow and figuring out logistics like where to park. But going with a good heart, even if you’re tired is what we mean by being prepared. With a good heart you’ll be ready for all the other things around you in the powwow that refresh your mind and strengthen your spirit.

Show respect

This will include being attentive to the prayers and honorings, which are part of every powwow. Hence, periodically you may be asked to rise, to show respect for the flags, veterans who protect our country or for other reasons. Standings tall (unless you are physically unable to) shows respect. What your wear is important too. The dancers prepare their regalia and it’s no small thing especially in very hot or cold weather. You can show your gratitude by being respectfully dressed even in comfortable and casual attire. To our knowledge most powwows do not happen at beaches, pools and nightclubs. Finally respect the powwow grounds, by disposing of trash before you leave.

Look around

Notice if elders have the seats ‘best seats in the house’ and small children can see the arena. Take note of special events and learning opportunities for people of all ages. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or share with others who may not know what to expect.

Talk to the locals

A powwow is a great way to make new friends and keep the old. As mentioned above, each powwow gathering has its own ambience. If you want to know more about the land, history and the people,  talk to those who live there. Finally, even if you know just a few words in your grandmother’s native tongue, don’t be afraid to speak it with another who shares the same language.  Powwow gatherings are a powerful opportunities to practice language recovery.

Be inspired

There are several ways to do this. First, be ready to dance (even if you didn’t bring your moccasins). Listen carefully  to the powwow drum and the distinctive rhythms of Northern and Southern style drumming.  Try new food. See if you can detect subtle taste differences in fry bread. Look for the artists and educators among the vendors.Not all vendors are artists and not all craft items are authentic or of unique value. Artists and educators will be able to tell you how something is made and why it matters. Finally, learn from small children. They instinctively know how to be inspired by the energy of the powwow experience.

Did you find these tips helpful? Do you have any others to share? Questions? We’d love to hear from you! Better yet, visit our booth Lakota Red Nations at the upcoming powwows:

Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Powwow Aug 31-Sept 2,  2018
Sycuan Powwow El Cajon, CA   Sept 7-9, 2018
Morongo Thunder & Lightning Powwow Cabazon, CA Sep 21-23, 2018
Black Hills Powwow, Rapid City, SD, October 5-7, 2018