RAPID CITY, S.D. — The 2021 Black Hills Powwow, or the He Sapa Wacipi, has been announced for October 8-10, 2021 at The Monument, marking the events’ 34th year.
The powwow will be one of the inaugural events to open Summit Arena, slated for completion October 1st.
“The Black Hills Powwow is a long-standing tradition for the community and our facility, we are excited to welcome them back after their hiatus in 2020,” said The Monument Executive Director, Craig Baltzer. “We can’t think of a better event to help us open Summit Arena.”
Over 1,000 Native American dancers, representing over 100 tribes from across the US and Canada are expected to gather with championship drum groups to provide the best in singing and dancing. The Monument will be filled with over 100 vendor booths, an artist showcase featuring authentic crafts and artwork, traditional hand game competitions, and a form of native storytelling that’s guaranteed to be entertaining.
Each session of the Black Hills Powwow begins with the colorful and stirring Grand Entry. It kicks off with the Veteran’s Grand Entry, in which they bring in the eagle staff and American, Tribal nations and other flags. Once everyone is in the dance arena and with the spectators still standing, the flags are raised to the accompaniment of a flag song.
There are four Grand Entries, one on Friday, two on Saturday and one on Sunday. Besides plenty of intertribal dancing for all participants, the Black Hills Powwow features over 32 dance and singing contest categories.
“We are all aware of the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on our families, communities and the entire world. Our number one priority is to diligently monitor the continuous data provided to make sure our Powwow is safe for all involved. We are excited to be back working with the wonderful staff at The Monument, this is and always has been a great cultural event for our community. The hard work of many has made this all possible, how exciting to be having this year’s powwow in the brand-new Summit Arena at The Monument!” The Black Hills Powwow Association President, Stephen Yellowhawk.
Tickets go on sale Friday August 27th at 10:00 a.m. For tickets and additional information, visit themonument.live.
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