If you ask most indigenous people, “How would you define pow wow?” you’ll probably get a host of different answers. Google “pow wow meaning,” and you’ll likewise stumble upon a wealth of information on these special events.

Some people may tell you a pow wow is a sacred gathering; others may say it’s a place to honor traditions; others still could tell you it’s a place to catch up with family and friends.

All of these are true.

Pow wows have become a staple of Native American culture, providing the indigenous community an opportunity unlike any other to celebrate their ancestral heritage — their songs, dances, foods (hello, fry bread!), art, and so much more.

Pow wows, for many Native people, are about celebrating a part of themselves that some have sought to erase. For that reason, pow wows provide an excellent venue to educate those unfamiliar with Native American cultures on the traditions, customs, struggles and triumphs that shape their distinct cultural identities.

Evolution of the Pow Wow

The origin of the pow wow is lesser known. There’s a theory that pow wows may have originated as a form of entertainment in reservations. Of course, pow wows have since grown into elaborate events sponsored by companies in different towns and states and set up by various committees, who see to each and every minute detail.

It can take a committee several months to prepare for a single pow wow. The committee generally appoints an emcee, who works closely with the Arena Director to ensure everything runs smoothly. The success of a pow wow typically falls on the shoulders of the committee and the emcee, who are jointly responsible for bringing people together and getting the event off the ground.

The Grand Entry

A major component of any pow wow is the Grand Entry, which originally started as a parade. The Grand Entry is composed of various dancers, singers, and community elders from various tribal nations.

First, everyone is asked to stand as the procession of the flags begins. The U.S.Flag is typically brought in by a noted U.S. veteran as a way to remember our past, our ancestors, and to remind us that Native Americans will always have a place in this county. Tribal chiefs, princesses, elders, community leaders and pow wow committee members then follow suit with tribal flags, the POW (Prisoner of War) flag and the Eagle Staffs of various tribal nations.

In any pow wow, the women enter the arena first, followed by the men. Over the past few years, the LGBTQ Flag has also been added in support to our two-spirit brothers and sisters. At this point, the pow wow arena is typically filled with music and prayers to honor both our veterans and ancestors. The general atmosphere is one of joy and excitement as the various dancers get ready to compete.

Song and Drums

Two of the most essential elements of the pow wow are songs and drums, which are vital to Native American culture. Native American songs can tell stories of joy, sadness, war, triumph, and so much more. We also learn about each other’s cultures without fear or judgment. Vocables, which are performed without words, have replaced many of the old songs, but they are, nonetheless, beautiful in their own respect.

The regalia worn during dances is vibrant, with distinct coloration, reflecting the style of the individual dancer. Regalia has changed over the years and the dances performed are likewise modern interpretations of traditional ones. Common dances are Northern Traditional, Grass, Fancy, Chicken, Jingle, and Fancy Shawl. For many in attendance, this may be their first time seeing dances that have evolved throughout the centuries.

Get Involved!

Of course, pow wows aren’t merely a spectacle for the audience. At some point, most pow wows become very interactive. The emcee might ask people to join and dance, visit the various pop-up shops, or taste some of the local foods. As previously noted, the emcee sets the pace until the conclusion of the pow wow.

It’s not uncommon to see the same faces at different pow wows. Many dancers and performers make the rounds at various contests, which can get pretty competitive. If you haven’t been to a pow wow, but have always wanted to attend one, check out powwows.com for all the latest information on in-person and virtual pow wows. And remember: be kind, be respectful, but most importantly, have fun.

Note: While this is the de facto definition for pow wow, the term can also be used to describe a “Native American medicine man,” per Merriam Webster. A medicine man is typically a spiritual healer of some variety. As with most Native American terms, “pow wow” should generally be avoided in contexts unrelated to indigenous peoples.

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