The Web Site for the Study of Native American Pow-Wow Ettiquette and Tradition

Remember that when we participate in the Native American Dance, we are borrowing a culture that has a reverence and spirit of its own. It is still alive and living strong in this nation. As a dancer, we must adhere to the traditions and respect and the proper etiquette of the pow-wow.

1. Be on time. The Host is doing everything possible to ensure that activities begin and run smoothly. Please cooperate in this regard.

2. Bring a chair, Pow Wows are often in large fields, and seating is limited.

3. There should be no alcohol or drugs at a Pow Wow.

4. It is considered an insult to refer to a dancer's clothes as a "costume". Costumes are what we are on Halloween to go trick-or-treating. A dancer's outfit is an extension of who the dancer is, and is worn with much greater pride. Acceptable terminology is: clothes, outfit, dress, or regalia.

5. Arena benches are reserved for dancers in dance clothes. Dancers wishing to reserve a space on the bench should place a blanket in that space before the dance begins. Please do not sit on someone else's blanket unless invited. Uncovered benches are considered unreserved.

6. Listen to the Master of Ceremonies. He will announce who is to dance, and when.

7. Respect the position of the Head Man and Head Woman Dancers. Their role entitles them to start each song or set of songs.

8. The Flag Song, or Indian National Anthem, is sung when the American Flag is raised or lowered. Please stand and remove hats during the singing of this song. It is not a song for dancing. You are also expected to give respect for the Grand Entry, Veteran Songs, Memorial Songs, Prayer Songs, or any other song that the M.C. designates. It is also customary to remove any hats and stand that you have on for the duration of that song.

9. While visiting any powwow, honor the protocol of the sponsoring group.

10. Clapping for dancers, drummers, or honorees in appreciated. Dancers will often signal praise by shaking their bells.

11. Powwows are non-profit. It depends upon donations, raffles, blanket dances, etc. for support. Donations are encouraged as a way to honor someone. Any participant can drop money onto the blanket to aid in the powwow expenses. Support the Committee and buy raffle tickets.

12. Certain items of religious significance should be worn only by those qualified to do so. Respect the traditions.

13. Giveaways, attributes of Indian generosity, are held at many dances. They are acknowledgments of appreciation to recipients for honor given. When receiving a gift, the recipient thanks everyone involved in the giving.

14. If taking pictures, asked the dancer first. Remember common courtesy and ask permission. Group photographs are usually alright to take, but you might want to ask the committee first.

15. If at any time you are uncertain of procedure, etc., please check with the MC, Arena Director, or Head Singer. They will be glad to help you with your questions.

Remember that in each area you travel to and visit, things can and will be slightly different than your area. Different groups and have different customs and methods of doing things. Different is not wrong, just different. Be respectful of the uniqueness of each area.

Glazner, Chris et all, 2000 Etiquette for Dancers. Southern Native American Pow Wows<http://library.thinkquest.org/3081/rules.htm> 2001, April 24

PowWows.com, 2000 Pow Wow Drums. PowWows.com <http://www.powwows.com/dancing/etiquette.shtml> 2001, April 25