> Pow Wow 101

The Pow Wow is a sacred celebration and there are certain things that are expected of both visitors and participants. These are guidelines provide for your information only. When at our event, please listen to our Master of Ceremonies who will guide in the proper pow wow etiquette for the day.

1. The Pow Wow is a sacred place. The Circle is blessed before the festivities begin. It remains sacred until the Pow Wow is over.

2. Master of Ceremonies will let everyone know when not to take photographs.. Pictures are not allowed during Prayers, Veterans Songs or Flag Songs.

3. Do not photograph a dancer in regalia without asking. If you wish to use the photo for publication, please ask.

4. Respect Honor, Veterans and Flag Songs. Be sure to stand until these songs are finished. Remove all hats or head coverings unless they are adorned with an eagle’s feather.

5. The Flag Song (Indian National Anthem) is always sung when the National (US or Canadian) flags are raised or lowered. Stand and remove hats and head coverings while these songs are sung.

6. Do not use your finger to point. Many Native cultures consider the pointed finger to be a sign of rudeness. If you must indicate a certain direction, nod your head.

7. Do not wear halter tops, short-shorts, hot pants or swimsuits to a Pow Wow.

8. Do not use profanity at a Pow Wow.

9. A dancer’s clothing is called an “outfit” or “regalia,” do not refer to it as a costume. Do not touch a dancer’s regalia without permission. It is often made up of sacred objects and family heirlooms.

10. Donations are welcome during the “Blanket Dance.”

11. Only dancers in regalia are permitted to enter the “Sacred Circle” unless an invitation is announced. Spectators are invited to participate at some Pow Wows.

12. Respect the Head Man and Head Woman. The role of these dancers is to begin each song or set of songs. Wait until they start to dance before dancing. In some cultures it is forbidden to pass these dancers. If you’re unsure, check with the Master of Ceremonies or the Head Dancers before the dance begins.

13. Some dancers are subject to eligibility rules. Snake, buffalo and trot dances have particular steps and routines. Veteran dances are usually restricted to Combat Veterans, Veterans or, at times, family members of Veterans. If unsure, check before the dance begins.

14. Do not sit at a drum without permission. Drums are sacred.

15. If you wish to hear a Drum Song, ask the Master of Ceremonies. When doing so, it is traditional to give a monetary or symbolic gift.

16. Do not touch a drum without permission.

17. Many times gifts are given at Pow Wows as a symbol of Native generosity. If you are the recipient of a gift, be sure to thank everyone that was involved in its giving.

18. Do not pick up a feather that has been dropped, either by you or someone else. Be sure to notify the Master of Ceremonies, a Veteran or the Head Veteran or Head Dancer. When a feather falls, the Pow Wow is immediately stopped until its power is restored. Stand with an uncovered head and do not take photographs while the Veterans perform this traditional dance.

19. If you have a question, the staff, elders, dancers or the Master of Ceremonies will be glad to enlighten you. It is polite to offer a symbolic gift or drink to these people.