Powwows are run according to ancient traditions common to many tribes.  Because the Indian powwow has a sacred, meaningful purpose for many Indian tribes, respect and reverence must be given during all activities.  Powwow etiquette is common sense and consideration for others, Indian style.  Without these traditions, all powwows would be unorganized; with them, Indians from many tribes can join together in common celebration and great fun.  The following points of powwow etiquette will help you to understand the happenings and prevent your  doing something incorrectly, which may cause embarrassment or offend someone.

• Random walking, running or playing in the Dance Arena is prohibited.

• Taping of songs is allowed only if permission has been granted by the Head Singer of a Drum.  Taping of certain songs may not be permitted at the request of the singers.  

• A dancer's feathers or other parts of his or her regalia can be easily damaged by the oils and/or dirt on a person's fingers.  Much time and money has been invested in the creation of these regalia pieces.  In some instances, all or part of the regalia may have been handed down through the family.   Therefore, please do not touch any part of a dancer's regalia.

• Permission to photograph dances and activities must be approved and granted by the powwow committee.  Additionally permission must be requested and received from individuals before photographs are taken outside the Dance Arena.  No photography will be allowed in the event of a special ceremony performed for a dropped eagle feather.

• No alcoholic beverages or drugs are allowed at the powwow.

• The benches around the dance area are for dancers only and spectators should sit on benches, in lawn chairs they have brought, or on the ground.  NOTE: A blanket placed on a bench or laid on the ground is the way to mark one's place.  Never remove or sit on anyone's blanket without permission.

• Visitors never enter the Dance Arena during the dance session, except by invitation during specials.  After the dance, visitors may come into the Dance Arena and speak to the singers and dancers if they enjoyed the powwow.  Visitors may offer contributions to those most admired.