The word powwow was not originally used by the Native Americans. All tribes have their own word for this type of gathering, of course, but just as an example the Dakota Sioux call the gathering a Wacipi (pronounced Wa chee pee), meaning dances. There are some very good dances at Reservations throughout South Dakota. Places like the Crow Creek Reservation, the Lower Brule, Sisseton, Pine Ridge, and the Rose Bud Reservation-to name a few-hold annual powwows or wacipi.
The Crow Creek Reservation is near Chamberlain SD bordering the Missouri River. The river is really beautiful in that area and one can take a scenic drive along the river all the way to Pierre (the state capitol of South Dakota). The people who live at Crow Creek are some of the most friendly people I have ever met (and I have met a lot of people from all over the world). The area is one of the poorest counties in the United States but the tribe still manages to host their own free Wacipi (powwow) every year.
Powwows begin on a Friday and end on a Sunday-normally allowing three whole days of interesting drum-pounding fun. Usually there is a parade for the opening day and the opening ceremonies at the arena begin with all the people who will dance entering the arena in their respective groups and categories. There is even a group of veterans and an honorary veterans' ceremony held at each Wacipi. Each time the powwow breaks for lunch or dinner there is a new grand entry upon returning to the arena.
Free lunch and dinner is provided for the guests who attend the powwow. Some of the finest Indian fry-bread you will ever eat is served with the meals. Somehow, no matter how many people show up, there is always enough food for everyone and all seem to enjoy the powwow meals. Vendors also provide a variety of food for sale for those who want to sample the Indian tacos, hamburgers, roasted corn, and other items. There are plenty of drinks such as fresh squeezed lemonade or free coffee at the powwows.
As for the dance competitions and displays-these are world class dancers that come from all over the US and Canada to gather with the tribe. There are, of coarse, dances for the tiniest of tots to the eldest of the Seniors. Some of the small children will absolutely amaze you with their abilities to dance without seeming to miss a step. From my own observance of the Senior dancers I would never be able to keep up with their pace while dancing. Everyone seems to be absolutely fantastic at dancing!!!
You can visit the author's website at http://www.powwowtours.com for more information about attending a powwow or any other travel plans you might have.
Eva K. Kaiser is a writer and currently the owner of a travel agency called Powwow Tours. You can visit her website at http://www.powwowtours.com for more information about attending a powwow.
Source: www.ezinearticles.com
