Experience A Wisconsin Powwow This Summer

Wisconsin is home to 11 federally recognized American tribes spread throughout the state. Experience these living, beautiful cultures by attending one of the many powwow events that happen throughout the year.

Visitors are always welcome. Don’t miss the chance to join in the celebration. As you walk into the friendly environment, you may find yourself energized by the rhythm of the drum and the movement of the bright and beautiful regalia, but also inspired to discover the deeper meaning behind these special events.

Participants come from across the country to gather and celebrate as their ancestors have done for centuries. Although powwows have evolved over time, they remain true to their purpose — to honor veterans and recognize their service to the country.

Modern powwows include singing and dancing contests so prepare to be wowed by their beauty and brilliance. But these celebrations are not just a feast for the eyes and ears. They are also feasts for hungry travelers. Find a variety of mouthwatering Indigenous foods such as frybread tacos, authentic wild rice dishes, Indian corn soup and many other delicious treats.

Explore the exquisite craftsmanship showcased by a selection of vendors offering handmade arts and crafts, stunning jewelry, Native-themed apparel and homewares. Many of these creations reflect traditions that have been cherished and passed down through generations.

While a number of annual powwows take place year-round, the warm months of summer are an ideal time to experience these special events hosted by Wisconsin’s tribes.

May

Visit the annual Ho-Chunk Memorial Day Weekend Pow-Wow in Black River Falls. This event dedicates the entire weekend to paying tribute to all members of the armed forces, but with a special focus on those fallen during war time. 

June

June is known as the strawberry moon month to the Ojibwe people. The Ode’imini-Giizis (or Strawberry Moon) Powwow takes place this month on the Sokaogon Chippewa Community, Mole Lake Band of Lake Superior Chippewa reservation. Explore their 400,000 acres of scenic public wilderness to connect to the land of the Ojibwe. 

Witness traditional dances and vivacious storytelling performances by the Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians at the Waaswaaganing Indian Bowl Pow Wow located in downtown Lac Du Flambeau. For more than 60 years, the tribe has hosted performances June through August that showcase top-notch Native artistry and cuisine. 

The Oneida Tribe, originally from upper New York and Canada, brings an Algonquin flair to Wisconsin. Witness traditional smoke dancers and their unique woodland style at the Oneida Pow Wow, a short drive from Green Bay. Tribes from around the country come to gather in friendship and harmony at this event that happens annually in midsummer.

July

Don’t miss the Red Cliff Pow Wow during the first weekend of July. Head to the Gaa-Miskwaabikaang’s Red Cliff Pow Wow Grounds to witness woodland singing, dancing and games. The celebration includes the annual Water Walk, honoring the sacred gift of water and its importance to all living things. 

August

In late summer, the Forest County Potawatomi Tribe hosts the Woodland World Championship contest powwow at their annual Meno Keno Ma Gē Wen Powwow. The celebration takes place at the Ka Kēw Sē Gathering Grounds, located just outside of Wabeno.  

For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, attend the Menominee Nation Powwow at the Woodland Bowl of the Menominee Nation in Keshena. Find yourself surrounded by nature in this beautiful outdoor arena while watching the swift movements of the traditional woodland dancers. 

September

Manoomin is the Ojibwe word for wild rice, a staple for woodland tribes. Giving a nod to this important food source in the name of their annual fall celebration, the Bad River Band of the Lake Superior Tribe of Chippewa Indians host the Manoomin Pow Wow on the Bad River reservation. Hot, cold, savory or sweet, wild rice dishes share center stage with the dancing at this annual celebration. 

As summer comes to a close, the Ho-Chunk gather for their annual Labor Day Weekend Pow-Wow just east of Black River Falls on Highway 54. This beautiful location holds deep meaning for the Ho-Chunk, as it was preserved and set aside for the Ho-Chunk people by esteemed elder and World War I veteran Andrew Blackhawk. 

At any one of these wonderful celebrations, you are definitely in for the experience of a lifetime and sure to make new friends as the locals welcome you to their beautiful homelands and share their culture. Prepare to be wowed.