Pow wow events can be celebrations, social gatherings, family honoring, and friendly dance competitions. Everyone is welcome at a pow wow, regardless of tribe, non-Indians too. For newcomers to these colorful events, a bit of explanation may enhance the enjoyment and understanding.

There is a circle in most dances representing the circle of unity, the circle of life.

Dancers often follow the clockwise pattern of the sun. The dance arena is considered sacred ground for the duration of the pow wow. You may notice blankets on some seats around the arena. These are reserved for the dancers and they are set up to form the dance arena. The audience may sit in the surrounding area, but should not sit in the area reserved for the dancers. Children must not play or run through the arena, and the adults must not randomly walk about the arena. The Arena Director(s) has the obligation of maintaining arena discipline during the pow wow.

When Grand Entry begins, everyone stands. Hats are removed in respect. If part of a dancer's regalia falls to the ground, please do not attempt to pick it up. It will be noticed and taken care of according to tradition.

Remember to listen to the Master of Ceremonies who coordinates the activities and keeps the participants and the audience informed of all the activities for the activities for the day.

Do enjoy yourself as you watch the dancers.

Do feel free to join in the inter-tribal dances by invitation of the Master of Ceremonies.

Do be respectful of American Indian traditions and stand when asked to. Remember to remove hats as a sign of respect.

Do ask permission before taking pictures of dancers.

Do visit with craftsmen and women and ask questions about their art and skill.

Do not take pictures during the Flag Song, Honor Dances, Competition, or if the arena director asks for all cameras to be shut down.

Occasionally, there is a special or sacred moment in which photography is not allowed. Please respect our traditions.

Please try and pick up your own litter and throw it in the trash.

Most of all have fun. We work had to make this an enjoyable time for you. Make new friends and renew old friendships.

Do not touch the dancers or their regalia. Not only are the feathers fragile, but are also considered sacred objects. Some of the outfits or ornaments signify special events or honors in a person's life, special religious traditions, or symbols rooted in legend. A respected family member may have made these items or are heirlooms passed down. Many of the handmade outfits can cost thousands of dollars.

Do not sit on the chairs immediately around the arena. These are reserved for the dancers only.

Do donate money to the drum. Although this is a free event, a special "blanket dance" is traditionally called for in which the audience show its appreciation for the hosts and the drums.

There is No smoking inside the building. No alcoholic beverages or drugs are allowed.