Pow Wow Etiquette

Here are a few general rules to keep in mind while attending any these ceremonies:

Listen to the Master of Ceremonies (MC)

The MC is coordinating the Powwow and will specify who is to dance and when, and when spectators may participate. Do not cross the arena to get to the other side, enter and exit through the respective “doors.”

Seating

Seating is often provided in the way of bleachers or bales of hay. You may bring your own chairs. Do not sit within the arena. The chairs inside the arena are reserved for the dancers and singers. Use the outside circle or bleachers if provided.

Photography & Videography

If you want to take pictures of the dancers, check with the Powwow Host first, and then check with the person you are taking a picture of and ask their permission.

Do not enter the arena to take photos.

Put your camera down for all memorial dances.

All tape recording must be done with permission of the MC and the Lead (or Head) Singer of EACH drum, as well as the Powwow Host.

When a new drum starts, do not enter the arena to get to the other drum, nor should you run. Wait for the song to end and then approach the drum. It is considered disrespectful to be a “recorder-runner” and stand around the drum to film.

Dancers’ Regalia

Regalia is the term used for describing traditional dance attire. Please do not touch a dancer’s Regalia, and never refer to it as a “costume.” Regalia may be called an “outfit.”

It is not uncommon for Regalia, or parts of it, to be family heirlooms, and each outfit is created by the dancer or by a respected family member or friend. The feathers are particularly sacred and highly valued and cared for. Sometimes years has gone into the final completion of a dancer’s regalia, so please be respectful.

Eagle Feathers

Eagle feathers are sacred within the American Indian culture.

Each eagle feather has its own spirit, and to wear and be guardian of that feather is a great honor.

Therefore, if you happen to notice that a feather has fallen from one of the dancers, please do not pick it up or take a picture of it. Please notify the MC or the Powwow Host as soon as possible.

Drum Area

Only those with the permission of the Lead Singer may sit at the drum. Children are curious little people so please take care not to allow them into this area.

Stand & Remove Your Hat

During the Grand Entry, Flag Songs, Invocation, Memorial, Veterans Songs, and the Closing Song, you should stand and men should remove their hats, unless they are wearing traditional head gear, or hats with eagle feathers. Many elder Native veterans have eagle feathers on their hats.

Dancing

If you are not wearing Dancer Regalia, you may dance during social songs (like Two- Step, Inter-Tribals, Blanket Dance, Honoring Songs, Circle Song). Sometimes a Blanket Dance is held to gather money and you may enter the circle to make a donation. Inter- Tribals are for all tribes of all nations. These are good dances for first-timers to participate.

Please do not permit your children to enter the dance circle unless they are dancing. Many Powwows have children’s activities areas, where parents can let their children move around more freely.

No Alcohol, Drugs, or Pets

Alcoholic beverages are prohibited at most Powwows, and drugs are prohibited at all times. The Powwow is a time of gathering and celebrating life.

Pets are also not permitted.

Trash Disposal

Make an extra effort to ensure your trash ends up in the trash cans provided on the Powwow grounds. The Native culture is one that respects Mother Earth so please try to avoid littering.