The United Tribes Pow Wow is Back in Bismarck

The United Tribes Technical College International Pow Wow is September 10th, 11th and 12th in Bismarck after missing last year due to Covid. What is a Pow Wow? Here is an excerpt from the UTTC Pow Wow website.

What is a powwow?

The word powwow is a noun an Eastern Algonquian language used to describe a gathering of Native people; however, in Indian Country, the event is defined as a cultural celebration that features group singing and dancing by men, women, and children. Cultural traditions such as values and spirituality are passed from generation to generation during these social gatherings. Skilled Native American artisans travel across the country to attend various powwows to display and sell their hand-made goods. The powwow is a welcome opportunity to visit with friends and relatives, trade or sell Native arts and crafts, and enjoy great traditional and contemporary foods.

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Hundreds of dancers, singers and artisans will gather in Bismarck Mandan next weekend. Stories will be shared, laughter and smiles will be seen, memories will be made. You will see many different categories. Men have Traditional, Grass, Chicken, Southern and Fancy. Women have Traditional, Southern, Jingle and Fancy Shawl. There are also different age groups with Tiny Tots, Juniors, Teens, Jr Adult, Sr Adult and Golden Age.

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You will see a huge variety of regalia. Different tribes have different designs and every individual's regalia has meaning to that dancer. Please remember to ask if you may take their photo.

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The Pow Wow is open to anyone. Grand Entries are at 7pm on Friday, 1pm and 7pm on Saturday and 1pm on Sunday. Admission is $15 a day or $20 for a weekend pass. Elderly 65 and older and children 5 and under get in free.

Around the circle you will find various craftsmen showcasing everything from jewelry and purses to blankets and sculptures. And come hungry, there are a lot of different food vendors to satisfy your growling stomach.

For more information visit unitedtribespowwow.com