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Division of Academic and Student Affairs
Multicultural Student Affairs

Annual NC State Powwow

Power in Acknowledgement
Saturday, April 5 2025 | 12-5 p.m.
North Carolina State University | Miller Field

Each year, Multicultural Student Affairs partners with student organizations- Native American Student Association (N.A.S.A.) and American Indian Science and Engineering Society (A.I.S.E.S.) to host our Annual NC State Powwow.

Join us for a time of gathering, family, and celebration of Indigenous culture! NC State’s 35th Annual 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.

Powwow culture within Native communities originated as an opportunity for tribal nations to unite and celebrate their respective identities and cultures.  Often, this has been a way to provide a visual representation of the beauty and resilience of Native peoples across the country.

All Powwow activities and programs and all MSA-sponsored/supported programs and initiatives are open to all students 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.

If you would like to express interest in being a vendor you can complete this interest form by March 14th at 11:59pm.