Pow Wow Season Etiquette

Pow Wow's are open to the public and we invite everyone to view and participate in this unique cultural event. Some Pow Wow's are large and some are very small, but the etiquette is pretty much the same. Here is a guide line written by us many years ago.

Pow Wow Etiquette: It all comes down to respect

Native American pow wows are social events. They should be fun - a chance to see beautiful regalia and breathtaking performances, as well as reunite with old friends and meet new ones. But keep in mind that Pow Wows are also cultural events infused with tradition. There is a protocol, so just be aware of a few details (especially if you are a first time pow wower) to avoid accidentally offending anyone or appearing disrespectful.

Important people to know at a Pow Wow

Emcee: This is the Master of Ceremonies. He is the keeper of all that is important. He will let you know the protocol for each dance, keep you entertained, and be the go to person for any questions.

Drum: This is the drum group, the players of the beautiful music.

Head Male & Female Dancers: These highly revered dancers will be the ones to start each song or set of songs.

Sponsoring Group: Tribal group responsible for the Pow Wow.

Etiquitte

Don't sit on the benches or chairs around the Pow Wow space (unless, of course, you are given permission by the staff or Emcee) : These are typically reserved for performers.

Bring something to sit on: Public seating is not always available for guests (think lawn chair).

Be polite and aware of where you set up your chair: Guests typically set up their seating area behind the performers, but it is good practice to ask permission from the dancer (just in case he or she is reserving the space for family).

Join in the social dances and have fun: During social dances, you are welcome to join in and dance your heart out, but when not dancing, be quiet and respect the space.

Show respect for special songs: It is customary to stand quietly and remove your hat when special songs are played - these songs include Grand Entry, Flag Songs, Veteran Songs, Memorial Songs, and Prayer Songs. Again, listen to the emcee - he will announce these songs and any others that require a special level of respect.

Get the okay to take a dancer's photograph: This can be a very sensitive issue and may make some dancers uncomfortable, so just be sure to ask before you shoot (this includes video as well). The Emcee will also let you know if photography is not allowed during any part of the Pow Wow.

Ask permission to record songs: As some songs heard at a pow wow may be sacred, it is best to ask the Head Singer of a Drum and the Emcee for permission first. Even though many songs may be okay to record, be aware that specific songs may not be recorded.

Give to the Drum: During a designated song or dance, it is customary to donate money to the Drum as a sign of appreciation for the the beautiful songs they bring.

If you find an Eagle Feather on the ground, do not pick it up: If you find a fallen Eagle Feather, a special ceremony will need to be performed. What you can do is stand next to the feather and guard it while notifying a member of the powwow staff. Please note that photographing or recording the ceremony for recovering a fallen Eagle Feather is strictly forbidden.

Show respect for the dancer's regalia: Yes, the dancer's may look like living sculptures that you would love to touch, but remember they are people and deserve to be treated with the same respect as you expect from others…if you feel it rude for a stranger to touch your attire, please don't touch theirs.

Do not touch the dancer's regalia: From their clothing to their jewelry and accessories, many of these items may be ancient family heirlooms. They are fragile, sacred, and irreplaceable. If a dancer drops any piece or part of their regalia, do not pick it up, please notify the Pow Wow staff for assistance.

Respect the Native culture: Some items of spiritual significance should only be worn by those qualified to do so, such as real Eagle Feathers, the insignia of certain societies, and even veterans colors.

Please do not point: Just like your mom always told you, pointing at people is impolite. Use your eyes to direct attention to a specific person or area, or give a nod of the head.

Drugs and alcohol are forbidden.

Honor the protocol of the sponsoring group: Not every Pow Wow in every part of the country is going to be the same. Different groups will have different customs, beliefs, and ways of doing things. This should be welcomed and accepted…after all, this is a vibrant, living culture that has survived many changes throughout its sometimes turbulent history. Respect these differences and embrace them.

Respect will be your guiding light

If you don't remember anything else, remember this and most of the time it will help you make the right choice. Just show respect for everyone - whether they be Non Native or Native, children or adult, performers or guests, revered Elders or a first timer - and you'll be fine.

Our best piece of advice for anyone attending a Pow Wow, "Treat everyone as you would your grandmother…if you wouldn't say or do something in front of her, don't say or do it in public".