The Gathering of Nations is the largest powwow in the United States and North America. It’s celebrated annually during the fourth weekend in April on the Powwow Grounds at Expo NM, in Albuquerque New Mexico. Over 565 tribes from around the United States and 220 from Canada travel to Albuquerque to participate. The festival has reportedly attracted over 75,000 people who want to celebrate, share and educate others about the First Cultures and Traditions of America. The Gathering of Nations features 3,000 participants, including dancers, singers and performers. In this festival, the culture, unity, and art of all the nations and tribes in North America is celebrated. The festival aims to promote respect and admiration for indigenous people and it is a 2-day event best known for creating powwow fever, a term used to describe falling in love with celebrating Native culture and the sense of community.
Powwows began as a way for nations to come together to celebrate success in hunting or battle. In the present time, they highlight the opportunity to share tradition and reconnect to culture and family. The term “powwow” derives from the Natick word for “medicine man,” pau wau. Natick is the language spoken by the Algonquin people of Massachusetts. In the 20th century and after World Wars I and II, the powwow also became a way to honor Native American veterans of war. It is also an opportunity to reconnect with family, other tribes, and the earth. Overall, powwows are a celebration of life, honor and respect, with strong emphasis on community and culture.
“As individual fingers we can easily be broken, but all together we make a mighty fist”--
Sitting Bull - Teton Dakota Native American chief
Last year, the celebrations were held virtually and they will be doing the same this year due to COVID-19 restrictions. Please follow the link below to obtain tickets, see the full schedule of celebrations and to see photography from past events. https://www.gatheringofnations.com/event-info/
