Annual Powwow at NC State
36th Annual Powwow
Saturday, March 28 2026 | 12-5 p.m.
NC State University | Miller Field
Each year, the Native American Student Association (N.A.S.A.) partners alongside Multicultural Student Affairs (MSA) and American Indian Science and Engineering Society (A.I.S.E.S.) to host the Annual Native American Student Association Powwow at NC State University.
Join us for a time of gathering, family, and celebration of Indigenous culture! The 36th Annual N.A.S.A. Powwow features vendors, traditional drum groups, and the display of different Indigenous dance styles. It is a time for not only the native community to come together but also for the NC State community as a whole to learn and engage with this rich culture.
All Powwow activities and programs, and all MSA-sponsored/supported programs and initiatives are open and welcoming to all students and NC State community members from all backgrounds.
Powwow FAQ
Who is allowed to attend powwow?
Everyone! While powwow’s origin revolved around a time for Native communities to come together, it has evolved into a space where non-Natives are often allowed to attend and gain insight into the culture of native peoples across the country. This is particularly the case with collegiate powwows, and it is actually encouraged for people of different backgrounds and identities to come to learn and gain insight.
Are there cultural aspects/practices that attendees should keep in mind?
A couple of tips for engaging the powwow space are as follows:
- Video recording and pictures are fine. However, if you are attempting to take pictures of specific people, please ask their permission prior to doing so. Additionally, do not touch individual regalias without permission.
- Don’t walk through the powwow dancing arena. Typically chairs and seating surround the dancing arena space, which is in the form of a circle. There will be plenty of space to move around outside of the dance arena, and vendors will be set up on the perimeter as well.
What are the typical events/activities that happen during powwow?
While dancing is typically a focal point of powwows, this is also a time for vendors to attend and display their items. Over the years, collegiate powwows (particularly NC State) have enjoyed supporting vendors who represent multiple tribes, nations, and communities, both native and non-native alike. Vendor items can range from jewelry to crafts to blankets.