Powwow Etiquette

For many first-time visitors to an Indian Powwow, the activities and events may seem confusing, and you may be wondering what is appropriate behavior.

The most important guidance will be provided by the Master of Ceremonies. Listen carefully as he explains what is to take place, why and when. He will tell you a dance is open to all participants or when the dance is open only to pre designated participants.

The M. C. will also instruct you on when you can and cannot take pictures, or do any video or audio recording. This not a political or religious event. It is a spiritual and cultural gathering. Some parts of the ceremonies are sacred. Please show respect and consideration for all.

The Powwow Committee and Security reserve the right to confiscate any unauthorized film or video, so please abide by the rules

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ENTER THE SACRED CIRCLE THROUGH THE EAST ENTRY.

Do not pass or cross through the Sacred Circle. While dancing in the Sacred Circle, please dance in a clockwise direction only. Dance as long and as hard as you desire. When not dancing, please be quiet and respect the Arena.
The sequence for Grand Entry is the Eagle staff followed by the Color Guard, then in the following order--chiefs, elder men, younger men, elder women, younger women.

Please honor this sequence.

Be courteous and do not touch the regalia or the participants unless permission has been granted. The pieces are handmade and some, such as those pieces that are hand held, are sacred and often very old. If taking pictures of the participants, be courteous and ask permission first.
PLEASE KEEP MOTHER EARTH CLEAN.

Keep the Powwow grounds clean and pick up after each other.
PLEASE LEAVE YOUR PETS AT HOME.

Only seeing eye dogs will be allowed at the powwow.
The camping area is for campers only. Media people must get permission from Security or the Committee before entering the camping area.

ALCOHOL, DRUGS AND FIREARMS ARE NOT ALLOWED AT THE POWWOW.

Violators will be removed from the powwow.

If you have questions, visit the Powwow Information Booth.

If you have a question, ask it. Our goal is for everyone to enjoy the powwow. If we all listen to the M. C., ask for permission first and respect each other, that goal will be realized.

Powwow Etiquette

The Midnight Sun Intertribal Powwow Council

is organized exclusively to bring together

Alaska Natives, American Indians, and First Nations People of Canada in a powwow setting to share similarities and diversities, to honor the elders, and children, and to educate the general public of the heritage of the indigenous people of North America.