Pow Wow 101
May 27, 2025
Understanding the dos and don'ts of Pow Wows
Across all of indian country, Indigenious tribes gather for pow wow traditions. These community events are a wonderful display of health, vitality, and culture of tribes.
Why use the term “Pow Wow?”
The term “powwow” originated in one of the Algonquian nations of the Northeast Indians. It initially referred to gatherings where people from diverse Indigenous nations came together to dance, sing, and honor their ancestors’ traditions. European settlers later misused the word to refer to meetings of Indigenous medicine men and any kind of American Indian gathering.
Today, powwows continue as celebrations of American Indian culture, drawing participants and spectators from diverse backgrounds. Flag Raising, Dancing, Drumming/Singing, Art, Food, and other Cultural and Community Celebrations are integral parts of a Pow Wow. The Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System and the Winnebago Health Foundation are owned and operated by the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska which hosts the oldest annual traditional pow wow celebration in the world the Winnbago Annual Homecoming Celebration Pow Wow.
About the Winnebago Homecoming Celebration Pow Wow
Why is this Pow Wow called a “Homecoming Celebration?”
In 1863, the Hocakra (“the Hocak or the “Hochunk,” otherwise commonly known as the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska) were moved from their then-home in Minnesota to a barren reservation in Dakota Territory. Groups of Hocakra soon moved down the Missouri River to the Omaha Reservation in Nebraska. In March, 1865, Hocakra used their own funds to purchase land from the Omaha Nation. That land is now the Winnebago Reservation.
In early 1865, about 75 members of the Hocakra enlisted in the Nebraska Volunteers. Known as “Company A, Omaha Scouts,” the unit took an active part in quelling the Indian Uprising of 1865 and 1866. This service exemplified Hocakra people’s desire for peace and good relationships between Natives and the white settlers.
In summer 1866, upon the return of the “Winnebago veterans”, a homecoming festival was held. Shortly thereafter, the Hocak Chief Little Priest died of wounds received in army service. An annual memorial celebration is now held in remembrance of his sacrifice. The year after his death, Little Priest’s service flag was raised as a symbol of the Hocak allegiance to their country. This ceremony remains an important part of each celebration. Later the Annual Homecoming gathering also became known as the Annual Pow Wow.
What are some regularly scheduled recurrences?
- Flag Raising is at 6:00 AM daily
- Retiring of Flags at 5:00 PM every day.
- Grand Entry times are 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday and 1:00 PM Sunday.
- The Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska's will livestream from the Grounds.
Are Pow Wows open to the Public?
Yes! People from every background are welcome to attend. You do not have to be Native to attend.
How will I know what is happening?
Listening to the Emcee(s) is very helpful as they will describe what you are witnessing and experiencing. Actively listening to the Emcee will also provide guidance on opportunities to participate.
May I take photos and video?
Many singers, drummers, and dancers will allow you to take photographs with them. It’s best if you ask first. You may also listen to the Emcee for guidance.
May I dance?
Pow Wows sometimes feature an “Inter-tribal” dance that follows the Grand Entry. This is a special dance that invites all to join in and dance together inside the arena circle. You may choose to join in despite not wearing any regalia. However, if you do decide to join the dance, always walk with the beat and be considerate of those around you. If you’re not sure of how to dance, simply watch how other women and men of your age are dancing for guidance. Enter the arena with respect and conduct yourself in a reserved manner.
Can I bring my children?
Children are always welcome at Pow Wows. You’ll want to go over Pow Wow etiquette with children old enough to understand, children are welcome to join in some dances but should otherwise stay out of the arena since some dances are competitions.
What else should I know before attending this year's celebration?
Show respect to elders (55+)
Please remember that Elders have a significant place in Native American culture. Please keep Elders in high regard, giving up a seat or place in line when appropriate.
Honor Veterans.
Veterans are respected throughout Indian Country. Given the “Homecoming Celebration” emphasis of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska’s Pow Wow and the warrior culture that is suffused throughout the Tribe, it is not surprising that veterans are honored in multiple ways, including naming the Pow Wow Grounds the “Veterans Memorial Park.”
Do not touch regalia.
Be respectful of the dancers and their regalia.
- Do not refer to what they are wearing as “costumes.”
- Remember that dancers and singers/drummers are not "entertainers", but rather members of a Native American community celebrating their cultural heritage with others.
Every year this event is a beautiful cuomunation of tradition and culture. The Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System is proud to participate as vendors, and provide medical services to do our part to support it.