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Rainbow Bullet You Are Here: Front Page > Pow Wow! > What to expect at PowWows and PowWow Etiquette
Rainbow Bullet Related Pages: Learn About Powwow Dancers, What to expect at the Powwow and tips for first-timers, Other sights to see in New Mexico, 29 Years of Powwow History in the Archives, About the Gathering of Nations Organization, Why We Dance, Powwow Recipes, Native American Articles, Powwow Stories
2012 PowWow Info: OFFICIAL 2012 Gathering of Nations PowWow Poster, Miss Indian World, 2012 Miss Indian World Application, Indian Traders Market, Stage 49, 2012 GON Event Schedule, 2012 Head Staff & Invited Drums Information, 2012 Contest & Special Contest Information, 2012 GON Travel Accommodations, GON Grand Entry Song, What to Expect at a PowWow? Tips for PowWow Fans, What is a PowWow? Learn about PowWow dancing.
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What to Expect at PowWows & Etiquette
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Page Updated: January 29, 2012 - Check Pages for Frequent Updates - Press F5 on your Keyboard to view new update
    Powwows are celebrations, social gatherings and friendly dance competitions. But, as with the sacred thread that runs through all of life, there are sacred traditions to be found in this coming together of people.

   There is a circle in most dances, representing the circle of unity, the cycle of life. Dancers often follow the clockwise pattern of the sun.

   Some of the regalia and/or ornaments signify special events or honors in a person's life, special religious traditions or symbols rooted in legend.

   For a brief description of dances one might see at a powwow, please visit our Learn About Powwow Dancers Section. No matter which dance or performance you see you are sure to be entertained and enlightened. Enjoy the powwow!

   Everyone is welcome at most contest powwows, regardless of tribe - non-Indians too.

   For newcomers to these colorful events, a bit of explanation may enhance the enjoyment and understanding.
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PowWow Tips
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 Rainbow Bullet   When the eagle staff is brought in during the grand entry, everyone MUST stands and Hats are removed in respect.

Rainbow Bullet   That same respect is shown should an eagle feather fall during the dancing. Everything must stop until a proper returning of the feather has been performed, there is NO VIDEO RECORDING OR PHOTOS during the retrieval of a fallen eagle feather.

Rainbow Bullet   Pay extra attention to the Master of Ceremonies (MC), various announcements and Etiquette is announced about the event and type of dances.

Rainbow Bullet   DO NOT TOUCH the dancers Eagle Feathers, Bustles, Plumes or Fans.
Rainbow Bullet   Pointing with a finger, particularly the index finger, is considered impolite. It's best to indicate a person or direction by pursing the lips and pointing with the eyes or to nod in the direction. For the Lakota, indicating with a thumb or little finger, while not preferred, would still be more polite than the index finger, but never toward a person.
Rainbow Bullet   DO NOT bother the performers or stand in front of those preparing to dance or those singing.
Rainbow Bullet   DO NOT bring Strollers are discouraged as they are not allowed in the seating area, and there is no place to park them.

Rainbow Bullet   Security, UNM, or the Gathering of Nations will not be responsible for them if stolen or lost.
Rainbow Bullet   Photos and Video Recording IS ALLOWED, make sure to bring extra batteries.

Rainbow Bullet   Please ask permission before snapping an individual's photograph outside the dance area, for this is private time. Some powwows are more restrictive than others in terms of photographing the event.

Rainbow Bullet   Don't touch any regalia outfits (NEVER refer to them as costumes).

Rainbow Bullet   Ornaments have special meanings and many of the handmade outfits cost thousands of dollars, and are cherished and sometimes are made by a respected family member. Frequently they are heirlooms and may be delicate.
Rainbow Bullet   Feel free to join in the inter-tribal dances by invitation of the Master of Ceremonies (MC).
Rainbow Bullet   Dances are either for men or women and competitions generally are divided by age categories.
Rainbow Bullet   In order to encourage and reward children, every dancer younger than about 5 years old receives some award of at least a dollar or two. This removes the aspect of competition, letting them just enjoy participation.

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