The first Gathering of Nations Pow Wow was held in 1983 at the University of Albuquerque. The event took on its current name a year later. What began as a small gathering of Native Americans has grown to become one of the biggest cultural festivals in the United States. Albuquerque’s pow wow welcomes the representatives of more than 500 tribes from North America each year, which is over 800 performers.
Although the scale of the event has grown considerably, the main goal of the pow wow remains the same. The Gathering of Nations strives to become a platform where Native Americans can come together to celebrate and share their unique culture. For singers, dancers and musicians the pow wow is a place where they can showcase their skill and talent, feeling confident that the competition is fair to everyone.
The highlight of the Gathering of Nations is the traditional dance contest. There are over 30 dance categories and several age group categories including Tiny Tots, Teens, Adults (19+), Golden Age (55+) and Elders (70+). Other competitions held at the pow wow include Southern Singers, Northern Singers, Women’s Back-up Singing, and a competition for drummers and drum groups.
Another traditional event at the pow wow is the Miss Indian World pageant. Unlike regular beauty pageants, it doesn’t focus on appearance. The winner is chosen based upon knowledge of tribal traditions, personality, and dancing ability.
There is also Stage 49, a music project featuring Native musicians that perform in all genres of music: rock, hip hop, reggae, blues, country, EDM, and more. Its goal is to promote contemporary Native Music and entertainment.
Finally, the Indian Traders Market held during the pow wow features over 800 traders, crafters and artists offering an impressive selection of indigenous arts and crafts, from dream catchers and pottery to clothing and musical instruments, and everything in between.
Photo: gatheringofnations.com
