What is a Pow-Wow?
What is a Pow-Wow?
Would you like to go to a Pow-Wow but aren't quite sure what to
expect?
Have you been to Pow-Wows and wondered what they're all about?
The following tips might help at the next powwow:
If a powwow is advertised as "open to the public" it's o.k. for
you to attend, even if you're not a member of an Indian tribe.
Wear your most comfortable clothing to a powwow. You don't have
to dress up.
There's a dance circle at every powwow. Please don't enter the
dance circle unless you're participating in a dance.
There's usually an area in the dance circle where drum groups
sit. Please don't enter this area unless your invited.
A powwow opens with a parade of dancers, called the Grand Entry.
This is followed by honor songs and an invocation (often in the
host tribe's native language). Please stand and remove your hat
during these events.
It's o.k. to take photos or videos at a powwow, except during
honor songs and invocations. Listen to the powwow announcer-- he
or she will tell you when you should stand up, remove your hat
or put your camera away.
If you hear the announcer say that a "ceremonial drum" will be
used for a song, put your camera away.
When the announcer say it's time for an inter-tribal, everyone
is invited to dance! You can dance in your street clothes if you
want. Just move sun-wise (clockwise) around the circle,
following the basic steps used by traditional dancers.
Just remember, there are no spectators at a powwow. You're a
participant whether you're drumming, dancing or watching the
activities. Enjoy yourself!!!