Prepare for a Powwow

You’ll hear the drums and smell the food first! At any Native American powwow, be prepared for the dancers’ stunning colors and a friendly welcome.

1. Today Native peoples throughout North America gather at powwows to celebrate their cultures and traditions as well as to visit, sing, and dance. Originally held as spring events to celebrate the seasonal renewal of life, powwows are always times when people renew old friendships and make new ones. The word powwow comes from the Algonquin language and means gathering.

2. If you’re going to a powwow for the first time, whether as a spectator or a participant, get ready for a very exciting experience. You’ll also be expected to act in ways that respect native traditions. You’ll want to walk along the perimeter of the arena, stand in silence during the Grand Entry, leave front-row seats for dancers and elders, and keep plenty of space around the drums.

3. Crayola® Markers and Multicultural Markers are ideal for capturing the vivid sights of a powwow! You could draw dancers in their splendid, traditional dancing regalia (they are not costumes). Or illustrate the dance circle with drum groups around the edge. Another possibility is to show the Grand Entry when all the dancers parade sun-wise around the circle. Whatever you choose to draw, fill your paper with stunning color.

Adult supervision is required for any arts & crafts project. Observe children closely and intervene as necessary to prevent potential safety problems and ensure appropriate use of arts and crafts materials. Some craft items, particularly beads and buttons, are potential choking hazards for young children. Avoid use of such small parts with children younger than 3 years. Craft items such as scissors, push pins and chenille sticks may have sharp points or edges. Avoid use of materials with sharp points by children younger than 4 years. Read all manufacturers' safety warnings before using arts and craft supplies.

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"We asked permission before we took a picture or used our video camera. And we listened to the Master of Ceremonies, who explained things. He asked people to stop recording during prayers and honor songs."
Kip P., father of 8- and 12-year-olds.

"I had my youngest count the circles she saw at her first powwow, knowing what a powerful shape it is in all Native American cultures. "
Jesse K., mother of 6-, 8- and 11-year-olds.

Powwows are often times when religious ceremonies are held privately because many people from all over are available to participate. During the public part of the powwow, however, an honor song may be requested for a deceased relative or returning family member in connection with a private ceremony.