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POWWOW ETIQUETTE - WHAT TO EXPECT?
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TieDye Bullet You Are Here: Front Page > PowWow! > PowWow Etiquette and What to Expect
TieDye Bullet Related Page: GON Grand Entry Song, What to Expect at a PowWow? Tips for PowWow Fans, What is a PowWow? Learn about PowWow dancing., Other sights to see in New Mexico, 30 Years of Powwow History in the Archives, 1984-2013 Past Miss Indian World Winners, About the Gathering of Nations Organization, Why We Dance, Powwow Recipes, Native American Articles, Powwow Stories
TieDye Bullet 2013 PowWow Info: Miss Indian World, Indian Traders Market, Stage 49, 2013 Head Staff & Invited, Drums, 2013 Contest & Special Contest Information, 2013 GON Travel Accommodations, 2013 Gathering of Nations FAQ,
 
 
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PowWows Etiquette... What to Expect
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Page Updated: May 04, 2013 04:56 PM
   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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TieDye Bullet   When the eagle staff is brought in during the grand entry, everyone MUST stands and Hats are removed in respect.

TieDye 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.

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

TieDye Bullet   DO NOT TOUCH the dancers Eagle Feathers, Bustles, Plumes or Fans.
TieDye 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.
TieDye Bullet   DO NOT bother the performers or stand in front of those preparing to dance or those singing.
TieDye Bullet   DO NOT bring Strollers are discouraged as they are not allowed in the seating area, and there is no place to park them.

TieDye Bullet   Security, UNM, or the Gathering of Nations will not be responsible for them if stolen or lost.
TieDye Bullet   Photos and Video Recording IS ALLOWED, make sure to bring extra batteries. There will be some occassions where you cannot take photography or videos, this will be announced by the Master of Ceremonies (MC).

TieDye 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.

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

TieDye 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.
TieDye Bullet   Feel free to join in the inter-tribal dances by invitation of the Master of Ceremonies (MC).
TieDye Bullet   Dances are either for men or women and competitions generally are divided by age categories.
TieDye 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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