Friday, August 15 and Saturday, August 16

Guided attendance with Alyssa will be offered during the times below:

• Friday, August 15 from 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM  
• Saturday, August 16 from 10:30 AM - 3:00 PM 
• Saturday, August 16 from 4:30 PM - 9:00 PM

LOCATION

Shakopee Wacipi Grounds (3212 Dakotah Parkway, Shakopee, MN 55379)

HOSTED BY

Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community

EVENT DESCRIPTION

A wacipi (pronounced wah-CHEE-pee), or pow wow, is a traditional Native American celebration of life. It is a time when people gather together to dance, sing, and celebrate, while renewing friendships, old and new. Meaning “they dance” in the Dakota language, the wacipi has transcended generations and has taken on new forms and meanings over the years. Historically, it was a time to gather at the end of a season, to celebrate a good hunt, or to recognize a positive event. While the dances still hold sacred ceremonial meaning for those who participate, today’s wacipi has evolved into a contest powwow, where dancers and drum groups compete for top honors and prize money. 

NEED-TO-KNOWS (etiquette, attire, ability, expectations)

1. Dress in weather appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes. REMEMBER WHERE YOU PARKED. The event is large and well attended. Parking will be in a large grass lot and guests can either walk to the main wacipi grounds or be shuttled in a golf cart. Vendors will be present and attendees are welcome to purchase food, beverages, and items from vendors prior to grand entry. Event will include a more in-depth explanation of pow wow etiquette, different dance styles, explanations about regalia, overview of traditional hand games, and background information on Tribal communities, art, and cultural practices. 
2. Vegetarian options are available from food vendors. Vegans may struggle to find appropriate food options.
3. Guests are welcomed! You are responsible for the people you bring, but please feel invited to bring your family and friends.

POW WOW ETIQUETTE

1. Remove hats and stand if possible for the entirety of grand entry. Hats should also be removed and guests should stand during veteran’s dances. 
2. Dancers wear regalia. Do not refer to traditional clothing as costumes. Do not touch anyone’s regalia without asking for a dancer’s permission. 
3. It is generally acceptable to photograph and film grand entry and dances in the dance arbor. Do not take photos of dancers outside of the dance arbor without asking for permission. Any photo that will be used in a commercial project should include a photo released signed by dancers.
4. Feathers are sacred. If one falls to the ground, leave it. 
5. Guests may enter the dance arbor for intertribal dances, round dances, spot dances, blanket dances, and when the master of ceremonies announces it.