The Black Hills Powwow or He Sapa Wacipi is a preeminent Black Hills event that’s three days filled with Native American singing, dancing, drum groups, art show, handgames, athletic competitions and a variety of other events. Over the decades, the Black Hills Powwow has become one of the premier American Indian cultural events in the United States attracting hundreds of dancers, singers, artisans and thousands of spectators from across North America.
Catch the Spirit and Be Inspired at the Black Hills Powwow in Rapid City
September 12, 2022
Updated:
Wednesday, September 14, 2022
See how beating drums, singing and mesmerizing dance create a sense of celebration and community during the Black Hills Powwow.
The Black Hills Powwow, or He Sapa Wacipi Na Oskate, is held annually in October at The Monument in Rapid City, South Dakota. The reoccurring theme of the powwow is “Come Dance With Us.” It’s an invitation to enjoy the beauty of Great Plains indigenous song and dance and to celebrate these deep cultural roots and lifeways.
Before attending the Black Hills Powwow, learn about the significance of this gathering, read up on things to know before you go and discover more ways to experience Lakota culture beyond the powwow throughout Rapid City.
UNDERSTANDING THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE BLACK HILLS POWWOW
Over the past 35 years, the Black Hills Powwow has become one of the premier American Indian cultural events in the United States. It attracts hundreds of dancers, singers and artisans and thousands of spectators from across North America.
The growth and popularity of the Black Hills Powwow are due in part to the location of the event. Paha Sapa, or the Black Hills, are home to many spiritually significant sites.
Many of the Great Plains tribes believe the story of their creation begins in these beautiful mountains.
The Black Hills Powwow is a time for Lakota, Dakota and Nakota tribes to return to these sacred lands to honor the past and be proud of their future.
The powwow exemplifies the strength and vitality of their legacy. By attending, you get a chance to see how Native people honor and preserve their culture in the modern world.
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN CULTURE AND COMMUNITY
Now that you have some background on the Black Hills powwow, it’s time to immerse yourself in the culture and community of the gathering. For the full experience, you’ll want to take in all three days of captivating activities.
Dancing is the heart of the powwow. Spirited drumming and singing fill the air as dancers complete their fancy footwork. The Black Hills Powwow features competitions in categories such as traditional, fancy, grass and jingle-dress dancing.
In addition to the powwow, you can enjoy the fine arts show, He Sapa Win pageant and a wellness symposium for youth. Competitions like hand games, golf and archery tournaments also take place.
Explore a wide variety of vendor booths around the arena, including Native American art and crafts to purchase. Be sure to sample foods like Indian tacos, fry bread and “wojapi,” a fruit sauce or jam.
During the Miss He Sapa Win, an emerging leader in the local community is crowned. A special committee selects a qualified individual to represent the Black Hills Powwow and serve as a positive role model to all in this coveted position.
The Youth Day Symposium connects children of all ages and backgrounds through Lakota language, hand games, song, dance and performances. This important facet of the weekend’s events sparks pride and understanding in younger generations. The Lakota culture is one generation away from losing their language – making the activities that take place at the Symposium so important.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
A powwow or “wacipi” (Lakota, Dakota and Nakota for “they dance,” pronounced wah-CHEE-pee) is a traditional Native American cultural celebration and social event.
Here are a few basic things you should know before attending this special gathering.
Remember not to touch a participant or their regalia. If any part of a participant’s regalia is dropped, you can inform them so they can retrieve it themselves.
Ask permission before taking a photo of the participants. Some do not want to be photographed due to longstanding traditional beliefs.
The dance arena is sacred and is respected as such, like the inside of a church.
WHERE TO EXPERIENCE INDIGENOUS CULTURE IN RAPID CITY
From fascinating historic artifacts to contemporary crafts and paintings, the rich heritage of the Lakota Nation is deeply ingrained throughout the Black Hills.
Check out these places in Rapid City to learn more about indigenous traditions and history and to support Lakota artists by purchasing authentic Native-made goods.
Sioux Indian Museum Familiarize yourself with traditional and contemporary Native American culture and artistry at the Sioux Indian Museum. Browse the collection of high-quality items with rare historic value that were acquired from notable Lakota individuals, artists and artisans. The museum is located in The Journey Museum and Learning Center, just across the street from The Monument.
Prairie Edge Trading Co. & Galleries Visit the area’s most extensive collection of Plains Indian art, crafts and jewelry and leave with an unforgettable experience. Prairie Edge Trading Co. & Galleries, anchoring the corner of Sixth and Main streets in the heart of downtown Rapid City, is a must on your visit.
Dakota Drum Company Across the street from Prairie Edge, Lakota artist Sonja Holy Eagle creates hand-painted traditional buffalo hide drums. She’ll likely be in the shop working on her art while you’re there. Dakota Drum Company also carries hide paintings by Sonja and traditional beadwork and quillwork created by Cheyenne River, Pine Ridge and the Rosebud reservation artists.
Tusweca Gallery Marvel at intricate art created by Joe Pulliam and tribal members from the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation at this indigenous-owned fine art gallery downtown. Get even more out of your visit with a guided tour through this creative space from the owner/artist.
Bird Cage Bookstore & Mercantile If you’re interested in Native literature, art, apparel, history, language, rare books and even out-of-print titles, be sure to swing into Bird Cage Bookstore & Mercantile. This eclectic shop is Lakota woman-owned and operated. Join community events, book signings, author talks, and other events.
The powwow is a communal gathering with a goal of unity and pride at its heart. “Come Dance With Us”— take this invitation to heart.
