Traditional Wacipi

What is a Wacipi?

Wacipi (wah-chee-pee), often referred to as a Pow Wow, is a traditional gathering that celebrates Dakota culture, community, family, and heritage through song, dance, ceremony, and fellowship. The Dakota word Wacipi translates to "they dance," reflecting the central role that dance plays in these cultural gatherings.

Wacipis bring together Tribal Nations, families, Elders, Veterans, singers, dancers, and visitors to honor traditions that have been carried forward through generations. While each Tribal Nation has its own customs and protocols, Wacipis are a time for cultural celebration, community connection, and honoring heritage.

What is a Traditional Wacipi?

A Traditional Wacipi is a cultural gathering that focuses on honoring Dakota traditions, customs, and community values through song, dance, drumming, and ceremony.

Unlike some large contest powwows that emphasize competition and prize money, a Traditional Wacipi places greater emphasis on cultural preservation, honoring traditions, family gatherings, and community fellowship. It is a time to celebrate Indigenous identity, strengthen connections between generations, and honor the teachings passed down by our ancestors.

Key Elements of a Traditional Wacipi

Grand Entry

A ceremonial opening featuring Veterans, flags, Elders, dancers, and honored guests.

Traditional Singing and Drumming

Drum groups provide the songs that accompany dances and ceremonies throughout the gathering.

Traditional Dances

Dancers wear regalia that reflects Tribal traditions, family heritage, and personal accomplishments.

Honoring Ceremonies

Special songs and recognitions may honor Veterans, Elders, families, memorials, graduates, and community achievements.

Cultural Sharing

Visitors have the opportunity to learn about Indigenous history, traditions, arts, crafts, and foods.

Community Gathering

Families and friends come together to reconnect, celebrate, and support one another.

The Upper Sioux Pezihutazizi Oyate Traditional Wacipi

The Upper Sioux Pezihutazizi Oyate Traditional Wacipi is a celebration of Dakota culture, tradition, and community. This gathering provides an opportunity to honor our ancestors, recognize Veterans, support cultural preservation, and bring people together through song, dance, and shared experiences.

  

Whether you are returning each year or visiting for the first time, we warmly welcome you to celebrate the rich traditions of the Dakota people and experience the spirit of community that makes the Wacipi such a meaningful gathering.

What You Can Expect

Visitors may experience:

  • Grand Entry featuring dancers, Veterans, and flags
  • Traditional drumming and singing
  • Men's, Women's, and Youth traditional dance exhibitions
  • Beautiful handcrafted regalia representing diverse Tribal traditions
  • Honor songs and special recognition ceremonies
  • Native arts, crafts, and food vendors
  • Cultural education and community activities

Visitor Etiquette

Guests are welcome and encouraged to attend respectfully. Please:

  • Listen to the Master of Ceremonies (MC) for guidance throughout the event.
  • Stand during Grand Entry, Flag Songs, and Honor Songs when requested.
  • Ask permission before taking close-up photographs of individuals.
  • Respect the dance arena, which is considered a place of honor.
  • Follow announcements and event protocols throughout the gathering.

A Celebration of Living Culture

A Wacipi is a living expression of Dakota identity, resilience, values, traditions, and cultural continuity. It is a time to celebrate community, honor our ancestors and Veterans, strengthen family ties, and share cultural knowledge with future generations.

Whether you are attending as a participant, family member, or guest, we welcome you to join us in celebrating the traditions, resilience, and spirit of the Dakota people.

Pidamaya (Thank You) for joining us.

Interested in Becoming a Vendor?

The 2026 Upper Sioux Community Traditional Wacipi will be held August 7–9, 2026.

If you are interested in becoming a vendor, please complete the online application.

2026 Upper Sioux Wacipi Vendor Application – Fill out form

Please Note:
  • Applications are reviewed in the order they are received.
  • Submission of an application does not guarantee approval.
  • All approved vendors must submit a $100 refundable deposit.
  • Upper Sioux Community members are eligible for a reduced $50 refundable deposit.
  • All food vendors must possess a current Food Safety Handler Certificate before the event.

Thank you for your interest in participating in the Upper Sioux Community Traditional Wacipi. We look forward to welcoming you.

Location

The Upper Sioux Pezihutazizi Oyate Traditional Wacipi is held at:

Upper Sioux Wacipi Grounds 
2553 565th Street
Granite Falls, MN 56241

The Wacipi Grounds are located approximately five miles south of Granite Falls within the Upper Sioux Community. Free parking and camping are available on-site during the Wacipi. We encourage visitors to arrive early for Grand Entry and other featured events.