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USK – The 49th Annual Kalispel Tribe Pow-Wow will take place from Friday, July 31, to Sunday, Aug. 2, in Usk with Campers’ Night on Thursday, July 30. This celebration honors the traditions and culture of the Kalispel people and welcomes visitors from near and far.
The weekend kicks off with Campers’ Night, featuring a community dinner, a memorial for lost loved ones, time to set up camp and Inter-Tribal dancing. Friday, a group of paddlers will return to the Pow-Wow Grounds after their multiple-day Canoe Journey, where they will be welcomed with prayers, singing and drumming. A highlight of the weekend is the Buffalo Barbecue on Saturday, which generally serves more than 250 people and requires days of preparation. The Buffalo Fun Run also takes place, encouraging community health and fitness.
Dancing is central to Pow-Wow, with more than 30 categories including traditional, fancy, jingle and grass.
There will be multiple contest rounds, Inter-Tribal dancing and Tiny Tot performances, along with a six-round Drum Contest highlighting rhythm and harmony.
The weekend features a Softball Tournament showcasing teamwork and sportsmanship.
Stick Game brings individuals together to compete in the Main, 3-Man and Youth tournaments for friendly competition and engagement.
Families and individuals are invited to this free event, and respectful photography of dancers and singers is appreciated. To ensure a safe environment, no drugs or alcohol are permitted. The celebration will begin when the first Grand Entry starts at 7 p.m. July 31 and will conclude Aug.
2 around 7:30 p.m. after the announcement of contest winners. There will be two more Grand Entries Aug. 1, at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., and a fourth Grand Entry at 1 p.m., Aug. 2. Join the Kalispel Tribe for a weekend of drumming, dancing, crafts, food vendors, competition and great company at the Pow-Wow grounds in Usk, near the Camas Center for Community Wellness. For more information, visit kalispeltribe.com.
