What is a Pow Wow: Song? Dance? Celebration?
Raeann Skenandore

What exactly defines a pow wow? In the broadest of terms it is a gathering. The pow wow was originally a Plains celebration that spread to most other tribes. Having evolved from ancient rituals, the pow wow is North America's oldest public festival. Native Americans have celebrated the circle of life for centuries with seasonal ceremonies of feasting, dancing, singing and drumming. To Indians, the circle of life is endless, no beginning, no end. Originally pow wows were planned around seasonal changes but as non-Native people interacted with the Native, some customs were altered.

Originally pow wows occurred mainly on reservations, but in the last 25 years they have taken place in a variety of locations such as colleges, convention centers, public parks and fairgrounds. The resurgence of the "Indian Identity" in the last 25 years or so has greatly contributed to the popularity and the continuing evolution of the contemporary pow wow. Estimates point to about 90% of all Native Americans attending or participating in pow wows, which indicates that the pow wow is an important part of their lives.

In addition to the celebration of culture, the main attraction for participants is socializing; a time to get together. Traditionally a pow wow celebration was expressed through song and dance. However, a significant and often forgotten part of these get-togethers was the exchange of gifts. This practice was an important part of reestablishing old ties and friendships with each other. 

Dance is the very embodiment of indigenous values and represents the response of the Native Americans to complex and sometimes difficult historical experiences. The dance of native peoples is thus both a vital means of surviving culturally and a powerful expression of that survival.

The 'gathering' aspect of pow wows is significant. Time and again dancers and spectators say what they like best about dancing or visiting at pow wows is the people they meet and the friends they make. Pow wows break down the barriers and unify all who take part. Whether you're from the southernmost regions of the United States or far northern Canada-common ground is found at a pow wow. Today the celebration aspect of pow wows is as important as a hundred years ago when the dancers celebrated a successful hunt or victorious war party. But now, the celebration is of being Indian. Of having a unique culture and long reaching history. Of letting the spirit fly with the beat of the drum.

This article reprinted (in part) with permission. For full text, including appropriate citations and references, go to: www.powwow-power.com/powwowhistorypg3.html


What to watch for at the Pow Wow:

Who the players are:

• Master of Ceremonies
• Arena Director
• Head Drummers
• Head Woman Dancer
• Head Man Dancer

·What you’ll see 

• Drum Roll Call
• Veterans Color Guard
• Pow Wow Princesses
• Traditional Male Dancers
• Men’s Fancy Feather Dancers
• Men’s Grass Dancers
• Women’s Traditional Dancers (buckskin or cloth dress)
• Women’s Fancy Shawl Dancers
• Women’s Jingle Dress Dancers
• Teen and Children Dancers

·What you’ll hear

• Convocation or Opening Prayer
• Honor Songs
• Intertribal Songs (any one can dance)
• Specialty dances differing songs
• Veterans Songs
• Lots of Laughter!

How you can participate

• Stand during Grand Entry
• Join in Intertribal Dances
• Visit all the vendors
• Eat some fry bread!
• Have a good time!
  

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