The Prairie Band Potawatomi Powwow, hosted by the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation in Kansas, is a vibrant and culturally significant event celebrating the rich heritage of the Potawatomi People and other Native American Tribes. This annual gathering serves as a testament to the resilience, traditions and community spirit of Native Americans.

The Potawatomi Nation, part of North America's larger Algonquian-speaking indigenous peoples, has a deep-rooted history in the Great Lakes region, with ancestral lands spanning parts of present-day Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana and Ontario, Canada. Over time, many Potawatomi people were relocated to various reservations, including the Prairie Band Potawatomi Reservation in Kansas.

The Prairie Band Potawatomi Powwow serves as a focal point for tribal members and visitors alike to come together and celebrate their culture through dance, music, and arts & crafts. Dancers proudly display traditional regalia adorned with intricate beadwork, feathers and symbolic designs as they perform a variety of dances, each with its own meaning and significance. The beat of the drum echoes throughout the event, serving as the heartbeat of the powwow and connecting participants to their ancestors and traditions.

In addition to the colorful performances, the powwow offers a range of activities and attractions, including arts and crafts vendors showcasing traditional Native American artwork and opportunities to sample indigenous cuisine.

The Prairie Band Potawatomi Powwow is not only a celebration of the Tribe's cultural heritage but also a time for reflection, education, and community building. It serves as a platform for sharing and preserving Potawatomi traditions, ensuring they continue to thrive for generations to come. Through the powwow, the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation invites people of all backgrounds to join them in honoring their past, celebrating their present and embracing their future.

Every June 11, thousands of people gather on the northern tip of the Big Island of Hawaii to honor Kamehameha I. King Kamehameha Day was established by royal decree on December 22, 1871, by King Kamehameha V as a national holiday to honor the memory of Kamehameha, the king’s great-grandfather, who united the Hawaiian Islands in 1810 and became Hawaii’s first king. Today, Kamehameha Day is a state holiday, and North Kohala is the place to celebrate.

Kamehameha I was born in North Kohala, where residents are said to have played a prominent role in saving his life as an infant. The day begins with the families of Kohala conducting a traditional lei draping ceremony at his statue in Kapaau. The 25-foot-long floral leis are a tribute to the king. The ceremonies start with an opening blessing, followed by hula, history and music. Hula dancing is a traditional art form with movements that tell a story or represent movements of nature.

The King Kamehameha Day celebration continues with a traditional pa’u parade with the royal court led by a queen on horseback, followed by princesses representing the eight major islands of Hawaii and Molokini. Each princess is attended by pa’u ladies-in-waiting dressed in colorful and elegant 19th-century riding gowns accented with leis and other floral arrangements. The parade makes its way from Hawi to the statue and Kamehameha Park and the Ho’olaule’a activities, where you can eat local food, see masters create traditional arts and crafts, watch hula dancers and listen to award-winning Hawaiian musicians. Watch the lei contest, conch shell blowing competition and student art contests.

Every June, the Fort Peck Reservation in northeastern Montana comes alive with the vibrant sounds and colors of the Red Bottom Celebration, an annual powwow hosted by the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes. Held in Frazer, this cultural event is a tribute to the enduring traditions and rich heritage of the Native American tribes in the region. The Red Bottom Celebration has been an annual powwow for over 100 years, celebrating native culture and traditions through dancing, food, crafts and fellowship of the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes on the Fort Peck Reservation in northeastern Montana. 

This celebration is deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the Tribes and serves as a time for community members to come together to honor their traditions, history and spirituality. The Red Bottom Celebration typically includes traditional dancing, drumming, singing and storytelling. It may also feature competitions, games, arts and crafts vendors and traditional food.

The name "Red Bottom" likely refers to the red earth found in the region, which holds cultural significance for the Assiniboine and Sioux Peoples.

Celebrations like the Red Bottom Celebration play a vital role in preserving and revitalizing the cultural heritage of Native American communities. They provide opportunities for intergenerational learning, strengthening community bonds and sharing traditions with the wider public.

Accommodations can be found in nearby towns such as Wolf Point and Glasgow.  An Amtrak station in Wolf Point is conveniently located about 30 miles east of Frazer. The nearest airport is Billings Logan International Airport, approximately 250 miles southwest of Frazer. While in the area, visitors can explore the nearby Fort Peck Lake, one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States, offering opportunities for boating, fishing and camping. 

Eastern Shoshone Indian Days, held in Fort Washakie, Wyoming, is a vibrant celebration that pays tribute to the heritage of the Eastern Shoshone Tribe. With its colorful festivities, spirited dances and rich history, Indian Days offers visitors a unique view into Native American culture. The event serves as a reminder of the Tribe's resilience and commitment to preserving their heritage amidst the challenges of the modern world. Drawing in tribes from across the region, Indian Days is a grand intertribal celebration that fosters unity and cultural exchange. Visitors have the rare opportunity to witness various Native American communities coming together, sharing their traditions and showcasing their unique artistry.

Held annually, usually on the last weekend of June, this spectacular event takes place in Fort Washakie, a historic and culturally rich area on the Wind River Reservation. Dancers adorned in magnificent regalia step gracefully across the powwow grounds, their movements reflecting stories of bravery, nature and spirituality. Skilled artisans display their creations, which include intricate beadwork, traditional clothing, jewelry and artwork. You can learn about crafts like beading and leatherwork, listen to captivating storytelling sessions and gain insights into the spiritual practices of the Eastern Shoshone people. Celebrate with them at Indian Days, where the past and present merge in an unforgettable celebration of Native American splendor.

Accommodations for visitors range from nearby hotels and motels in Lander and Riverton to camping facilities on the reservation, allowing guests to stay close to the heart of the festivities. Fort Washakie is beautifully situated amidst the rugged landscapes of Wyoming, with the majestic Wind River Mountains providing a stunning backdrop. 

The nearest airport is Riverton Regional Airport, located approximately 25 miles from Fort Washakie. The celebration is within driving distance of several renowned natural attractions. Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park are both accessible day trips.

Crow Native Days is a week-long festival that takes place each summer, attracting visitors from far and wide who are eager to experience the rich cultural heritage of the Crow Tribe. Held in the last week of June, for over 70 years, this event showcases many activities, including traditional dances, music performances, art exhibitions, rodeos and the highly anticipated Indian Relay Race. The Crow Tribe, also known as the Apsáalooke People, has a long and storied history, and Crow Native Days serves as a platform to honor and preserve their traditions. Crow Native Days are held at the Crow Agency powwow grounds against the breathtaking scenery of Big Sky Country in Montana.

One of the highlights of Crow Native Days is the Indian Relay Race, a thrilling equestrian sport that originated among the Plains Indians. The race involves teams of three riders who compete in a relay-style event, showcasing their horsemanship skills and agility. Spectators can feel the excitement as the riders thunder past, swiftly changing horses at each lap. The Indian Relay Race combines speed, strategy, and teamwork, making it a spectacle not to be missed. Dressed in colorful regalia, the riders represent their respective tribes with pride and honor. The pounding of hooves and the spirited cheers from the crowd create an electrifying atmosphere, immersing spectators in the heart-pounding action. As the teams race towards the finish line, you can feel the intensity and passion that fuels this incredible sporting event.

Crow Agency is also steeped in history, being the site of the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, just a few miles away, where visitors can learn about the famous battle and its significance. The Bighorn National Forest is approximately 60 miles south for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wealth of hiking trails, camping sites and stunning vistas. The Pryor Mountains, about 40 miles to the west, provide additional opportunities for outdoor adventures. 

Visitors to Crow Native Days will find a range of accommodations in nearby Hardin, just 15 miles to the north of Crow Agency. Travelers can reach Crow Native Days via Billings Logan International Airport, 65 miles northwest of Crow Agency. The nearest Amtrak station is also in Billings, where visitors can travel by train.

The Badlands Celebration in Brockton, Montana, is a vibrant cultural festival hosted by the Fort Peck Tribes. This annual showcase of Native American heritage, drawing visitors to the northeastern plains of Montana for a weekend of dance, music and community spirit.

Set against the stark beauty of the Montana badlands, the celebration offers a stunning landscape of rugged, eroded hills and vast open skies. The Fort Peck Tribes, composed of Assiniboine and Sioux nations, welcome guests to experience their rich traditions in this breathtaking setting.

The Badlands Celebration in Brockton, Montana, is an annual event celebrating Native American culture and traditions through traditional dancing, mouthwatering cuisine and artisan crafts. Attendees enjoy a sensory experience, immersing themselves in the depth and beauty of Indigenous heritage while forging connections through shared experiences and cultural appreciation.

This vibrant celebration serves as a cultural oasis, inviting visitors to engage with and honor the rich traditions of Native American peoples. Through dancing, food, and crafts, attendees share in Indigenous communities' resilience, pride and unity, fostering connections that celebrate the Tribes' cultural legacy.

Accommodations for the Badlands Celebration are available in nearby towns such as Wolf Point and Poplar. Brockton is located in the northeastern corner of Montana. Billings Logan International Airport is the nearest airport. For those traveling by train, the Amtrak station in Wolf Point offers a convenient gateway to the area.

Welcome to the Cherokee 4th of July Powwow, a vibrant celebration of culture and tradition in North Carolina. Hosted by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, this annual event honors indigenous heritage and community spirit. Experience an explosion of authentic Indian music, dancing, food and festivities during an action-packed July 4^th weekend in Cherokee, North Carolina. With over $60,000 in prize money for dance competitions, thousands of spectators come near and far to view world-champion dancers adorned in colorful regalia compete with jaw-dropping dances and music made to move you. During the powwow, you can try authentic tribal foods, shop for traditional Indian crafts and get an insider’s look at a rich ancient culture.

Dance competition categories include:

• Traditional
• Fancy Shawl
• Grass
• Two-Step
• Jingle
• Buckskin
• Daniel French Memorial

Tip: Don’t miss the Grand Entry march each day for the dramatic procession.

Located in Cherokee, North Carolina, amidst the stunning backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains, the powwow invites visitors to experience the region's natural beauty. Nearby attractions include the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, offering insights into Cherokee history, and the Oconaluftee Indian Village, where visitors can step back in time to explore a recreated Cherokee village.

Whether participating in the dances, shopping for handmade crafts, or simply taking in the sights and sounds, the Cherokee 4th of July Powwow offers an unforgettable experience celebrating indigenous heritage amidst the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains.

The Marcellus Northwest Memorial Veterans Pow-wow, sponsored by the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Community, honors Native American veterans and celebrates their contributions and sacrifices. It is named after Marcellus Norwest, a highly respected Native American veteran. Pow-wows are traditional Native American gatherings involving dancing, singing, feasting and honoring ceremonies. This year's powwow will be held Friday, July 12, 2024 - Sunday, July 14, 2024.

This particular pow-wow likely includes special ceremonies and dances dedicated to veterans and traditional pow-wow activities such as drumming, singing and dancing competitions. It serves as a way to recognize the service and bravery of Native American veterans while also celebrating their culture and heritage. These events often bring together people from various tribes and backgrounds to share camaraderie and honor the veterans in attendance.

The Tamkaliks Celebration is a vibrant three-day event held in July in Wallowa, Oregon, serving as a poignant commemoration of the return of the Wallowa Band of the Nez Perce people to their ancestral homeland. Traditional songs and dances are at the heart of the festivities, providing a powerful means for participants to connect with their cultural heritage and express their identity through movement and music. The event also features a diverse array of vendors offering traditional crafts, artwork, clothing and food, allowing attendees to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Nez Perce culture while supporting local artisans.

Throughout the celebration, special ceremonies such as name givings and memorials honor the ancestors and leaders who have shaped the history and identity of the Nez Perce people. Additionally, the drum circle serves as a communal gathering point where participants come together to share their culture's rhythmic heartbeat, fostering a sense of unity and connection among attendees. The Tamkaliks Celebration is a testament to the resilience and strength of the Nez Perce people, providing an opportunity for descendants and visitors alike to come together in friendship and celebration.

The Nez Perce Wallowa Homeland grounds at 70956 Whiskey Creek Road, Wallowa, offer year-round amenities for returning Wallowa Band descendants. These include cultural youth programs and seasonal cultural activities such as hunting and meat processing camps, root digging and longhouse ceremonies. The 320-acre land is dedicated to supporting the cultural and spiritual needs of tribal members who call the Wallowa homelands home.

The celebration is surrounded by some of the Pacific Northwest's most stunning natural attractions. The Eagle Cap Wilderness, part of the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, is just 30 miles away, offering breathtaking hiking trails, alpine lakes and scenic vistas. Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, about 60 miles to the east, features dramatic landscapes and the deepest river gorge in North America, perfect for hiking, boating and wildlife viewing.

Eastern Oregon Regional Airport in Pendleton is the nearest airport, approximately 85 miles southwest of Wallowa. The nearest Amtrak station is in La Grande, about 50 miles to the south, providing rail access for those who prefer to travel by train.

The annual Mandaree Hidatsa Celebration stands as a cornerstone event in the cultural calendar of the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara (MHA) Nation. This three-day event welcomes tribal members, other tribes and visitors from afar. Held in the scenic backdrop of Mandaree, North Dakota's prairies and rolling hills. This annual gathering serves as a vibrant testament to the rich heritage and traditions of the MHA people. Participants are treated to a kaleidoscope of activities, including traditional dances, rhythmic drumming circles, soulful singing performances and captivating storytelling sessions. 

Sports tournaments foster camaraderie and friendly competition, while arts and crafts exhibitions provide a platform for showcasing indigenous creativity. Amidst the festivities, the aroma of traditional cuisine wafts through the air, tantalizing taste buds and inviting all to savor the flavors of MHA culture. Through its multi-day format, the Mandaree Hidatsa Celebration offers a profound opportunity for cultural exchange, community bonding and the celebration of shared identity and heritage.

The landscape surrounding Mandaree is characterized by wide-open spaces, lush green fields and the scenic beauty of Lake Sakakawea, which offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking.  Be sure to visit the Tribes' reconstructed Earthlodge Village on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation near New Town, North Dakota. Located on the picturesque shores of Lake Sakakawea, you can stay the night in an earth lodge, take a trail ride and hear stories of the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara peoples from cultural interpreters. While in New Town,  visit the Three Affiliated Tribes museum to learn more about the Tribes' history and culture.

This region's natural beauty adds to the charm of the celebration. While in the area, you can explore nearby attractions such as the Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site, about 60 miles away, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the Northern Plains Indians. The Little Missouri National Grassland, within 100 miles of Mandaree, provides outdoor adventures like hiking and wildlife viewing.

For those traveling to the celebration, the nearest airport is Minot International Airport, located about 100 miles northeast of Mandaree. The nearest Amtrack station is also in Minot.

Each summer, the town of Fort Belknap, Montana, hosts the Milk River Indian Days, a vibrant celebration celebration rooted in the cultural heritage of the Gros Ventre and Assiniboine Tribes. Held in late July, this three-day powwow has been a cherished tradition for over 50 years, bringing together participants and spectators from across the region for a weekend of dance, music, and community. 

The Milk River Indian Days occur at the Fort Belknap Reservation, home to the Assiniboine and Gros Ventre Tribes. The powwow grounds, set against the sweeping vistas of Montana's plains and the nearby Bear Paw Mountains, offer a scenic backdrop for the festivities. The powwow dazzles attendees with spirited dancers adorned in colorful regalia and the rhythmic beats of traditional drummers. This gathering serves not only as a showcase of Native American culture but also as a unifying force, bringing together community members and visitors in a shared celebration of identity and heritage.

The Annual Milk River Indian Days celebration will take place from July 25 to 28, 2024, with the youth powwow kicking off the festivities on Thursday, July 25.

Organizers reintroduce special contests to demonstrate a commitment to continually enriching the event experience, fostering an atmosphere of excitement and camaraderie among participants. Through dance, music, and various cultural activities, Milk River Indian Days stands as a testament to the resilience and vibrancy of Indigenous traditions, ensuring their preservation and celebration for generations to come.

Visitors to the Milk River Indian Days will find a range of accommodations in Harlem and the nearby town of Havre, about 45 miles west. Nearby attractions include the Missouri River Breaks National Monument, about 80 miles to the south, where visitors can explore rugged landscapes and rich wildlife. The Little Rocky Mountains, approximately 50 miles away, offer hiking and vistas of the Montana wilderness.

Great Falls International Airport is the nearest airport, 180 miles southwest of Harlem. The nearest Amtrak station is in Havre, 45 miles to the west, for those preferring to travel by train.

Key features of the Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial include:

1. Traditional Dances and Music: Attendees can witness mesmerizing traditional dances and hear captivating music performed by various Native American tribes. These performances are deeply rooted in the cultural and spiritual traditions of the tribes.

2. Arts and Crafts: The event features a marketplace where artisans display and sell intricate beadwork, pottery, jewelry, textiles, and other handcrafted items. This provides a unique opportunity to appreciate and purchase authentic Native American art.

3. Parades: The ceremonial includes parades with participants dressed in traditional regalia, showcasing the colorful and diverse cultural attire of different tribes.

4. Rodeo: A rodeo is held as part of the festivities, where Native American cowboys and cowgirls compete in traditional rodeo events, adding a touch of Western culture to the celebration.

5. Cultural Workshops and Exhibits: The event offers workshops and exhibits that provide insights into Native American history, traditions, and contemporary issues. These educational components help promote understanding and appreciation of Native American cultures.

The Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial is a significant event that fosters cultural exchange and celebrates the enduring traditions of Native American communities. It's a vibrant and enriching experience for visitors, offering a deep dive into the artistry, spirituality, and communal life of Native American tribes.

The oldest traditional powwow in Montana, exemplified by the Wadopana Celebration in Wolf Point, holds a profound significance within the Native American community. Hosted by the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes, special ceremonies held during this event include naming individuals and honoring family members who serve as pillars of cultural preservation and spiritual connection. The celebration is always the first weekend of August. 

Naming ceremonies, steeped in tradition and symbolism, reflect the deep-rooted reverence for ancestry and identity within Indigenous cultures. These rituals bestow individuals with meaningful names and reinforce their ties to their heritage and community, fostering a sense of belonging and continuity across generations. Similarly, ceremonies to honor family members underscore the importance of kinship and communal support, recognizing the invaluable contributions of relatives and strengthening the bonds that unite the community as a whole. 

The celebration in Wolf Point is a traditional event with no judging or individual prize money. Saturday is for young people and includes games, runs/walks, and many outdoor activities. Through these ceremonies and events, the Wadopana Celebration not only celebrates Native American culture but also perpetuates its rich traditions, values and customs for future generations to cherish and uphold. 

Wolf Point is a county seat in northeastern Montana where Wolf Creek flows into the Missouri River. It is part of the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, which is home to two American Indian nations, each composed of numerous bands and divisions.

Each August, the hills surrounding the Little Big Horn River in Montana are transformed into the "teepee capital of the world," with thousands of traditional camps, hundreds of horses, and throngs of participants all gathered for the revelry of the Crow Fair and Rodeo. Now in its 98th year, the festival is one of the largest gatherings of American Indians in the United States and is held each year to celebrate family, heritage, and native pride. The event boasts spectacular traditional regalia, nearly 1,500 teepees pitched on the river banks, dance competitions featuring Crow, also known as Apsaalooke, tribal members and countless other tribes across the nation, traditional artwork and other vendors, a rodeo and much more. Crow Fair is open to the public; spectators are welcome during all seven days of the event. Event organizers offer both day and weekend passes for adults and children. Enrolled members of any Indian tribe are admitted free to all events.

The annual event includes:

        - Crow-only dances

        - National powwow dances and competitions

        - All-Indian rodeo

        - Indian relay horse races

        - Crow Fair Parade

Crow Agency is also steeped in history, being the site of the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, just a few miles away, where visitors can learn about the famous battle and its significance. The Bighorn National Forest is approximately 60 miles south for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wealth of hiking trails, camping sites and stunning vistas. The Pryor Mountains, about 40 miles to the west, provide additional opportunities for outdoor adventures. 

Visitors to Crow Native Days will find a range of accommodations in nearby Hardin, just 15 miles to the north of Crow Agency. Travelers can reach Crow Native Days via Billings Logan International Airport, 65 miles northwest of Crow Agency. The nearest Amtrak station is also in Billings, where visitors can travel by train.

The Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes Turns Around Celebration in Poplar, Montana, is a vibrant event that proudly showcases Native American culture and heritage. With a rich tapestry of traditions woven into its fabric, the Celebration brings together community members and visitors to partake in various cultural experiences. From the rhythmic beats of traditional drum groups to the mesmerizing movements of dancers adorned in vibrant regalia, the event resonates with the spirit of unity and pride as participants honor their ancestral roots through music, storytelling and dance.

Throughout the weekend-long festivities, attendees can immerse themselves in the rich oral traditions of the Native American peoples as elders and storytellers share myths, legends and histories passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of American Legion Park, the Turns Around Celebration serves not only as a platform for cultural expression but also as a vital thread that strengthens the bonds of community and fosters a deeper appreciation for the diverse tapestry of Native American heritage.

The Fort Peck Reservation is home to two American Indian Nations, each composed of numerous bands and divisions. The Turns Around Celebration is held on the third weekend of August. The Reservation is located in Montana's extreme northeast corner, on the Missouri River's north side.

The Fort Kipp Celebration Pow Wow, hosted by the Fort Peck Assiniboine & Sioux Tribes, is a vibrant event and a great way to experience Native American culture and tradition. The powwow grounds are set against Montana's rolling plains and big skies, creating a stunning landscape for this cultural gathering. The event is hosted by the Fort Peck Tribes, including the Assiniboine and Sioux nations, who have lived in this region for centuries, preserving their traditions and sharing them with the world. As the rhythmic beat of drums fills the air, dancers adorned in colorful regalia enter the arena for the Grand Entry, marking the beginning of a spirited gathering.

Throughout the event, attendees are treated to mesmerizing displays of traditional dancing, with each step and movement telling a story of resilience, heritage and community. From the graceful swirls of the women's fancy shawl dance to the powerful stomps of the men's traditional dance, the Pow Wow showcases the diversity and beauty of indigenous dance styles. 

Amidst the rhythmic melodies, the Pow Wow grounds come alive with the sights and sounds of indigenous arts and crafts. Booths adorned with intricate beadwork, handcrafted jewelry, and pottery offer a glimpse into the creativity and craftsmanship of Native artisans. Meanwhile, the tantalizing aroma of traditional foods wafts through the air, enticing attendees to sample frybread, Indian tacos and other culinary delights steeped in indigenous flavors. 

As families gather, friendships are forged, and cultural connections are strengthened, the Fort Kipp Celebration Pow Wow serves as a powerful testament to the resilience, pride and unity of Native American communities, welcoming all to join in celebrating heritage and tradition. The Fort Kipp Celebration Pow Wow is held on the fourth weekend of August.

Located near the confluence of the Missouri and Yellowstone Rivers, the Fort Kipp Powwow is accessible via the nearest airport, Billings Logan International Airport, approximately 200 miles away. For those traveling by rail, the Amtrak station in Wolf Point offers a convenient gateway to the event.

September 6-8, 2024

Every September, Bismarck, North Dakota, comes alive with the vibrant colors and sounds of the United Tribes Technical College International Powwow. Held on the first weekend after Labor Day, this premier cultural event is hosted by the United Tribes Technical College (UTTC) and is one of the largest powwows in the country, drawing participants and spectators from across the globe. This year's Powwow, slated for September 6th to 8th, 2024, is an annual celebration deeply rooted in Indigenous culture and heritage. 

Held at the Lone Star Arena in Bismarck, North Dakota, on the sprawling UTTC campus, the landscape blends the open prairies of North Dakota with the backdrop of the Missouri River.  This event has earned its reputation as one of the premier cultural gatherings in the region, and it is known as the "Home of the Champions." Drawing participants and spectators from across the United States and Canada is a testament to the Tribes' resilience and vibrancy.

The powwow, held every second weekend in September, is a contest event where dancers and singers compete for prize money, showcasing their talent and skill while honoring their cultural roots. Expert judges, selected by the powwow committee, meticulously evaluate each performance based on criteria such as knowledge and skill in their respective categories, synchronization with the drumbeat, and the artistry of their regalia. This makes the UTTC International Powwow one of the last large outdoor events on the northern Great Plains powwow circuit.

Beyond the competitive aspect, the powwow offers a rich array of cultural experiences and community engagement. With an estimated attendance of 10,000 people, the event serves as a platform for cultural exchange and understanding among Native American and non-native communities. Attendees can partake in various activities such as a golf tournament, run, softball, and basketball tournaments, fostering camaraderie and connection. Supported by generous sponsors like the Mandan Hidatsa Arikara Tribes and 4 Bears Casino and Lodge, the powwow celebrates Indigenous heritage. It generates vital support for the local community, making it a cherished and impactful event for all involved. This weekend promises to be a fantastic cultural celebration and learning opportunity for everyone.

Bismarck's central location makes it an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions. The city boasts attractions like the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum, which offers insights into the region's history and culture. Just outside Bismarck, the Missouri River provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and scenic river cruises. Theodore Roosevelt National Park, located about 130 miles west of Bismarck, offers stunning landscapes of badlands, prairies, and wildlife. The park is a haven for hiking, wildlife viewing, and experiencing the rugged beauty of North Dakota.

The nearest airport is Bismarck Airport, conveniently located about 5 miles southeast of the city center. The nearest Amtrak station is Minot, approximately 110 miles north of Bismarck, offering rail connections to major cities.

Every Fourth of July, the town of Arlee, Montana, bursts into vibrant celebration with the annual Arlee Celebration, hosted by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. Held in the scenic Mission Valley of Montana, the Arlee Celebration showcases indigenous culture, featuring traditional dances, tribal games, arts and crafts and a strong sense of community. If you're seeking an authentic experience that honors Native American traditions, this event should not be missed! 

Held at the Arlee Powwow Grounds, this event has been a cornerstone of cultural heritage for over 120 years, making it one of the oldest and most significant powwows in the region. The grounds come alive with the rhythmic beats of the drums and the mesmerizing movements of the dancers in colorful regalia. Spectators have the honor of witnessing various dance styles, including the lively intertribal dance, the men's fancy dance, the graceful women's jingle dance and the powerful men's grass dance, among others. 

From the stick game to the exhilarating horse races, these events pay homage to the tribes' ancestral pastimes and the spirit of unity that comes with friendly rivalry. Visitors can witness the athleticism and camaraderie that define these age-old contests. This exchange and appreciation for cultural diversity strengthens the community and enriches the experience. Come join the festivities, connect with the past and celebrate the present at the Arlee Celebration!

Camping is available on the celebration grounds; hotels and motels can be found in Missoula, approximately 20 miles south of Arlee. Natural wonders provide opportunities for hiking, fishing and exploring the great outdoors. The Lolo National Forest is just 30 miles to the southwest. has extensive hiking trails and scenic vistas. The Flathead National Forest, 50 miles north, offers trails that access mountain lakes, peaks and valleys. 

The United Houma Nation is spread among six parishes in Southern Louisiana, situated among the interwoven bayous and canals where Houmas traditionally earned a living.  Although these communities are distant by land and road, they were historically very close by water. 

Each year, well over 1,000 people from these communities come together for the Annual Celebrating Abilities Powwow to raise awareness of people with disabilities.  Held in March the weekend before the Denver March Powwow, the Celebrating Abilities Powwow is sponsored in part by the tribe’s Vocational Rehabilitation Program, which provides employment services to disabled members of the UHN and the Chitimacha Tribe of Louisiana.

The public is invited to bring lawn chairs, watch native dance competitions, and feast on traditional fare, including Indian tacos, fry bread, white beans, and shrimp boulettes.   Arts and crafts – including the Houma Nation’s famous basketry – will be on sale.

The powwow feels like a family reunion and an opportunity for surrounding communities to experience the UHN culture, which thrived in Louisiana for centuries before French explorers arrived. UHN tribe members have endured discrimination, exploitation, and marginalization since European contact, but they are still thriving along the Louisiana Bayous.

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