Powwow

IU Traditional Powwow

Indiana University’s 2024 Traditional Powwow has been canceled this year as IU and the extended community prepare to participate in Solar Eclipse 2024. Information regarding the 2025 Powwow will be released at a later date.

The Indiana University annual Traditional Powwow attracts hundreds of visitors each year and boasts a line-up of nationally known dancers and singers, along with traditional foods, crafts, and dance clothing. Performers of all ages participate, carrying on the traditions of their people as they represent them through their feathers and beadwork, their dance clothes, the songs they sing, and the styles in which they dance. The powwow is an important time when generations come together to share in dance and song, and to celebrate the diversity of contemporary Native American tribal identity.

In addition to the social dancing at IU’s Traditional Powwow, vendors offer handcrafted items such as silver and turquoise jewelry, blankets, artwork, beaded purses, and other accessories. Visitors can also expect to enjoy a variety of food.

Powwow Etiquette

There are several guidelines that you should know as a courtesy to the powwow participants: Powwows are fun events, but they are also sacred events:

• Please respect elders at all times.
• Elders are to be served FIRST at mealtimes.
• Do not touch dancers’ regalia or jewelry.
• Walk around, not through, the dance circle.
• Donations are encouraged at blanket dances.
• Please do not dance in the arena until the emcee announces the invitation.
• Please direct any questions you might have to a powwow volunteer.
• It is polite to ask permission before taking a dancer’s photo outside the arena.
• If you would like to know more about a dancer, dance style, or a dancer’s clothing, respectfully ask that dancer.