1. Slide 1
The Powwow
A Native-American Celebration
Do you know what a powwow is? What are some things you would like to know about powwows?
Native Americans have come together from all over the country. They are dressed in their special outfits, or regalia. What’s the occasion? It’s a powwow!
A powwow is a festive Native-American gathering. Hundreds of
years ago, Native Americans gathered for many reasons. Sometimes they celebrated successful battles or hunts. Other times, they celebrated special family occasions, religious holy days, or annual events, such as the harvest. Dancers, drummers, singers, and spectators still gather at powwows today. They celebrate, share their culture, and continue their traditions.

2. Slide 2
The Powwow
A Native-American Celebration (Cont.)
A powwow begins with the Grand Entry. That’s when all the important guests and dancers enter the arena. First, veterans who were once in the United States Army or Navy carry in flags and eagle staffs. After that, the drums begin to play the Grand Entry song. This is when the chief of the host tribe and the important, honored guests enter.
The dancers come in next. Dance is a very important part of Native-American culture. Groups from different parts of the country have different dances. The grown-up men and women dancers lead the way into the arena. Next come the teenage dancers. Finally the youngest dancers enter. Some are tiny tots, as young as three years old. Now the arena is filled with dancers. It is a spectacular sight to see! People of all ages are filled with emotion. They may feel excitement and pride.

3. Slide 3
The Powwow
A Native-American Celebration (Cont.)
Native Americans cherish their dances. The men’s Traditional Dance is one of the oldest. In this dance, men do the same steps as their grandfathers and fathers did. Sometimes the dance tells the story of an animal hunt. These dancers use animal bones, hides, and feathers to make their outfits. Some parts of their regalia are very old and have been in a family for years and years.
One of the most popular dances for women is the Jingle Dance. How did it get its name? The women’s skirts are decorated with little cones made of shiny metal. The cones jingle as the women dance. Some jingle dresses have 700 cones on them!
Another dance you might see at a powwow is the men’s Grass Dance. Grass dancers hang long fringes made of ribbon or yarn from their arms and waist. The fringes represent the tall grasses of the prairie. As the dancers sway and turn, the fringes move. It looks like the wind is blowing through the tall grass.
Children dance at powwows, too. They learn the dance steps from the older dancers. Some of the boys and girls are just learning, but they will keep on practicing to get better and better.

4. Slide 4
The Powwow
A Native-American Celebration (Cont.)
Some people believe that the drum is the heart of the powwow. The drum is covered with animal hide. It is so large that eight or more people can play it at the same time. The people sing along as they beat the drum. Many of the songs have been passed down through the years. Other songs are new and tell about things happening now. Native Americans treat the drum with respect. They listen to its beat, dance, and sing.
Today there are different powwows throughout the year. People anticipate the time to dance, sing, and celebrate with family and friends. They enjoy the beauty of the Grand Entry and the stories told by the dancers. They feel the beat of the drum. They celebrate their history, tradition, and culture. Powwows help Native Americans remember their past and look forward to their future.
Unit 3, Week 1
The Powwow: A Native American Celebration
1. What are some annual events that your family celebrates?
2. What do you anticipate doing after school?
3. What kinds of games are played in an arena?
4. What is something you cherish? Why?
5. What emotions might you feel the day before going on a trip?
6. How could we decorate the classroom to make it look festive?
7. When and how do we celebrate the history of our country?
8. How do you treat an honored guest or visitor?
9. Where do the spectators stand at a parade?
10. What makes the branches of trees sway?