California Pow Wows, Native American Events

The Pow Wow is a powerful gathering to unite people, pay homage, teach traditions, and allow expression. Here is an explanation about Pow Wow Clothing. In general, California pow wows encourage public attendance and participation. Here is a brief and abbreviated history of Native populations in California.

Pow Wows

SAN BERNARDINO: San Manuel Pow Wow September 20-22, 2024
Cal State University, San Bernardino
5500 University Pkwy
San Bernardino, CA
sanmanuel-nsn.gov/Culture/Pow-Wow | socalpowwow.com
In existence for more than 20 years, this festival includes arts and Crafts, Competitive Dancing, Traditional Foods, Free to the public. In the spirit of togetherness and affirmation of Native American culture, the San Manuel Band of Serrano Mission Indians annual Pow Wow is always free to the public. Native American singers, dancers, and drummers, competitions for dancing, drumming and singing. Everyone is welcome.

EL CAJON: Sycuan Pow Wow September 6-8, 2024
Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation
5577 Dehesa Road
El Cajon, CA
sycuantribe.org
September 5, 2024 Fashion Show blends modern artistry with Native America heritage as indigenous designers and models showcase fashions ranging from contemporary business attire to casual wear with a native flair. 3rd Annual Sycuan Fashion Show  marks the beginning of the 35th Annual Sycuan Powwow on the Sycuan Reservation that runs from September 6-8, 2024.
Friday Grand Entry 7 p.m. | Saturday Grand Entry 12 & 8 p.m. | Sunday Grand Entry 1 p.m.
Head Staff
MC - Rueben Little Head
Arena Director - Clifton Goodwill
Head Singing Judge - Rooster Top Sky
Head Dance Judge -Tahnee Baker
Head Man - Xavier Little Head
Head Woman - Jonna Brady
Head Young Man - Brave Brown
Head Young Woman - Faith Gates Gastelum
Bird Head Staff
MC - Jamahke Welsh
Bird AD - Ryder Christman
Bird Coordinator - Jadeane LaBrake
Arts & crafts booths, food booths. Contest dancing for drum/singing, bird dancing and bird singing.

STOCKTON: Labor Day Pow Wow  August 31-September 1, 2024
University of the Pacific
901 Presidents Drive
Stockton, CA 95211
Free - everyone welcome, pacific.edu
facebook.com/ StocktonCommunityPowwow/
August 31,  11 a.m. -9 p.m. | September 1, 12-6 p.m.
Labor Day Pow Wow is now in its 42nd year. Everyone is welcome to experience this campus and community gathering where indigenous peoples of the West share their songs, dances, drums, arts, crafts, foods and more.
Come and enjoy the rich cultures of our nation's native peoples! The event attracts people throughout the Southwest. Dozens of vendors sell food, artwork, crafts, clothing, jewelry and other items. Food options range from buffalo burgers to Indian hotdogs, frybread and Native American tacos. Open Gourd Saturday and Sunday Dance contest: All drums and dancers welcome Authentic Native American food, jewelry, arts and crafts

FRIANT: Table Mountain Rancheria Pow Wow September 13-15, 2024
Table Mountain Pow Wow Grounds
8184 Table Mountain Road
Friant, CA
21st annual pow wow features free admission, bring lawn chairs, tmcasino.com/powwow/
MC Tom Phillips
$50,000 in cash prizes for Drum Contest and Dance Competition Specials: Women's Northern, Southern Traditional Dance, and Chicken Dance
Central Valley's leading Pow Wow features Master of Ceremonies Tom Phillips
Drum Contest & Dance Competition Golden Age, Adult, Teen & Juniors categories
Food trucks, arts & crafts booths, public invited - No pets, no alcohol permitted

CABAZON: Morongo Thunder & Lightning Pow Wow September 27-29, 2024
Held at Morongo Casino Resort
495000 Seminole Dr.
Cabazon, CA
morongonation.org | morongopowwow.com
Free admission
Indian Market Opens | Blessing of the Dance Arena | Open Bird Singing & Dancing | Flag Ceremony (8p) | Dance Contests
Bird Singing & Dancing | Drum Call | Color Guard Entry | Inter-tribal Dance | Drum, Dance and Bird Contests | Dinner | Peon at Dusk

LONG BEACH: Moompetam: Native American Festival September 14-15, 2024, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Aquarium of the Pacific
100 Aquarium Way
Long Beach, CA
Cost: $44.95 + $8 parking, aquariumofpacific.org
In celebration of local Native American cultures, the Aquarium of the Pacific will host its 10th annual Moompetam Festival, featuring traditional music, dance, cultural craft demonstrations, storytelling, and educational programs. The festival will celebrate California's indigenous maritime cultures, including the Tongva, Chumash, Acjachemen, Costanoan, Luiseño, and Kumeyaay.

BISHOP: Paiute Pabanamanina Gathering, Parade and Pow Wow September 27-29, 2024
Bishop Paiute Reservation
390 N. Barlow Lane
Bishop, CA 93514
bishopvisitor.com
For over three decades, the Bishop Paiute Tribe hosts an inter-tribal gathering to celebrate different tribal cultures with dance and spiritual events during its annual Pabanamanina Gathering and Pow Wow on the Bishop Paiute Indian Reservation the fourth weekend in September. Starts with a parade on Friday, California Indian Day, and continues through Sunday. Hundreds of Native American dancers, drummers and others from around the nation will descend upon Bishop to show off their regalia and their traditional regional dances. There will also be games for the kids, music, a free barbecue Saturday of a steer cut from the Tribal herd, Native American artists selling wares, an honoring of all local veterans and the crowning of Miss Pabanamanina and a junior counterpart. Handgames, one of the oldest Owens Valley Paiute and Shoshone Indian traditions that can be traced back to some Creation stories, will also be performed. Many contest take place to honor the Paiute way of life such as hand game tournaments, hand drum and clapper contests. 

BAKERSFIELD: Tejon Indian Tribe Powwow Honoring Our Ancestors September 28-29, 2024, 12 p.m. Grand Entry both days
Bakersfield College
1801 Panorama Drive
Bakersfield, CA
Free, public invited   facebook.com/tejonindiantribe/
Head Staff MC Glen Begay
Arena Director Mario Sanchez
Head Man Steve Garcia
Head Woman Alicia Sowini Pa’onay Lambarena 
 The Tejon Indian Tribe Pow Wow includes dancing, drumming, food, competition and regalia. Kalpulli Teuxihuitl share  Dances and Traditions during Dinner Break On Saturday

SANTA YNEZ: Inter-Tribal Pow Wow  October 5-6, 2024
10 a.m.-10 p.m.
10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Live Oak Campground
Santa Ynez, CA
$5 parking, Free admission, $35 optional camping santaynezchumash.org
Saturday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
MC Vince Beyl
Arena Director Darrell Goodwill
Gourd Dance 12pm & 6pm
Grand Entry 1pm & 7pm
Dinner Break 5pm
Sunday  10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Gourd Dance  12pm
Grand Entry 1pm
The pow-wow is open to the public, free admission. Dance contest, drum contest, food booths and arts and crafts vendors. This is a drug and alcohol free event. The pow-wow opens with the Grand Entry, in which all dancers will enter single-file behind the flags. As a sign of respect, always stand during the Grand Entry, Gourd song, Flag song, Invocation, Veterans song and Closing song. The Master of Ceremonies announces the appropriate time to stand and when you may sit. The Flag song follows the Grand Entry. You should stand for this song as you would for the national anthem. Next, all dancers participate in several rounds of inter-tribal dancing. Rounds of inter-tribal dancing usually take place between the contest dances. Winners of the contest dances are usually announced after the judges have cast their ballots and they have been tabulated. If there is a tie, there is a dance-off to decide the winner. If you want to take photographs, please check with the Master of Ceremonies first. If he advises that it is an appropriate time to take photos you must then ask the person you wish to photograph for their permission before taking their photos. Refrain from touching regalia (traditional tribal clothing) without permission. Children and adults should not enter the arena unless they are dancing or have been invited by a dancer or the Master of Ceremonies. Pets are allowed at the campsites but are not permitted in or around the arena area. 

SANTA CLARITA: Hart of the West Pow Wow October 5-6, 2024, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. & 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday
24151 Newhall Ave.
Newhall, CA 91321
friendsofhartpark.org
Fernandeno Tataviam Band of Mission Indians
William S. Hart County Park & Museum along with The Friends of Hart Park present the  Annual Hart of the West PowWow and Native American Craft Fair at Hart Park. 

ANDERSON: Stillwater Pow Wow October 4-6, 2024 Redding Rancheria
Shasta District Fair Grounds
1890 Briggs Street
Anderson, Ca
stillwaterpowwow.com
$3 admission approx., Free Parking
MC Carlos Calica
Arena Director Josette Scholfield
Head Man Dallin Maybee
Head Woman Naomi Bebo
Friday 7 p.m. Grand Entry
Saturday 12 & 7 p.m. Grand Entry
Dinner Break 5 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday 12 p.m. Grand Entry

COARSEGOLD: Chukchansi Pow Wow October 11-13, 2024
Celebration of Good Medicine presented by Artistocrat Gaming
Picayune Rancheria Pow Wow
711 Lucky Lane - Lower Parking Lot
Coarsegold, CA 93614
Free admission
chukchansitribe.net | chukchansigold.com/ pow-wow-information/ 

SAN FRANCISCO: Alcatraz Indigenous People's  Sunrise Gathering November 28, 2024 | October 14, 2024 is Alcatraz Indigenous People’s Day October Sunrise Gathering
Book your reservation recommended
cityexperiences.com/ san-francisco/ city-cruises/ alcatraz/ programs-and-events/ annual-events/ indigenous-peoples-sunrise-gathering/
Cost is around $15
Commemoration of the 1969-71 occupation of Alcatraz by Indians of All Tribes, the sunrise and annual Thanksgiving Day sunrise requires boarding a ferry available from 4:45-6 a.m. The ferries run every 15 minutes and bring people to the island to celebrate the Alcatraz Indigenous People's Sunrise Gathering. After the event all visitors must leave Alcatraz. The last vessel departs around 8:45 a.m.

ROSEVILLE: Sierra Native Alliance Big Time Pow Wow October 14, 2023, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
Placer County's The Grounds
800 All American Blvd.
Roseville, CA
sierranativealliance.org
The Sierra Native Alliance Auburn Big Time - Pow Wow Honors  Family and Children of Yesterday and Today
California Dancing
Gourd Dance
Head Gourd Dancer
1 p.m. Grand Entry
Color Guard
Intertribal Dancing
Tiny Tots
Junior
Teens
5 p.m. Dinner Break
Hawaiian Dancers
Halau Ka Waikahe Malie
6 p.m. Grand Entry
Color Guard
Adult Contest
Color Guard Flag and Retreat
Contest Prize Announcement

BERKELEY: Indigenous Peoples Day, Pow Wow & Indian Market October 12, 2024, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Civic Center Park
2180 Milvia St.
Berkeley, CA
ipdpowwow.org
FREE
32nd Annual Indigenous Peoples Day is Sponsored by the City of Berkeley and the Indigenous Peoples Day Committee the event roughly goes like this each year:
Exhibition Dancing 10 a.m.
Gourd Dancing 11 a.m.
Grand Entry 12 noon
Closing Ceremony 6 p.m.
Contest Dancing: All Categories
Intertribal Dancing
Featuring Native California dancers.
Native American Foods and Arts & Crafts
all day at the Indian Market
All Traditional Drums are Invited
Raffles all day till 6 p.m.

LOS ANGELES: Los Angeles Pow Wow November 2, 2024, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
The Autry Museum of the American West
4700 Western Heritage Way
Los Angeles, CA 90027
The United American Indian Involvement (UAII) is gathering people in Los Angeles for a one-day contest POW WOW!
MC Walter Ahhaitty
Head Man Ferdinando Salazar
Head Woman Sequoia Salas
Head Young Woman Kaliese Rivera
Head Young Man Anthony Salazar
 Featuring amazing vendors, artists, musicians, community orgs, and some amazing drums and dancers all highlighting the best of Southern California. All Vendors, Dancers, and Drums are welcome! For more information, contact LAPOWWOW@UAII.org

RIDGECREST: Petroglyph Festival November 2-3, 2024
Saturday 9 a.m.-6 p.m. | Sunday 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Leroy Jackson Park
Ridgecrest, CA
MC Arley Washington
Heardman Dean Webster, Jr.
Headwoman Lizet Whitehorse
Contact Pete Whitehorse (760) 953-7010
Festival includes an intertribal pow wow and Cherokee Hog Fry, free. rpfestival.com or facebook.com/ CaliforniaPowWows2024

BIG PINE: Big Pine Youth Pow Wow November 2-4, 2024
The Arbor
Big Pine, CA
Event includes contest dancing for tiny tots through teens
Vendor info contact Alison Piper (760) 937-1066
Head Teen Girl Marialexia Sanchez
Head Teen Boy Julius Phoenix
Royalty, Womens Jingle, Womens and Mens Traditional age 18+
Junior Girls Jingle Dress Special in honor of Outgoing Royalty
Age 16 and under years Girls Fancy Shawl Contest
Womens 18+ Fancy Shawl Contest

PORTERVILLE: Tule River Powwow November 8-10, 2024
Eagle Mountain Casino Events Center
1850 West Street
Porterville, CA
facebook.com/tulerivertribeca
Annual intertribal powwow. Open to all dancers and drummers with over $100,000 in prize money! Outdoor event on Tribal land
Friday Grand Entry 7 p.m.
Saturday Grand Entry 1 & 7 p.m.
Sunday Grand Entry 12 p.m.
Master of Ceremonies is Bart Powaukee; Arena Director Yahsti Perkinskiller; Head Drum James Tonetonez Phelan, Head Man Bernard Baga; Head Woman Farrell Top of the Sky

HOLLYWOOD: November 23, 2024, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
6th annual Hollywood Pow Wow
Hollywood Ovation Courtyard, Hollywood & Highland Ave.
6801 Hollywood Blvd.
Hollywood, CA
laskinsfest.com
The LA SKINS FEST 5th Annual Hollywood Pow Wow  features youth performances from tribes around the country, Native singing & dancing. 
 This is part of the 18th Annual LA SKINS FEST – A Native American film festival  November 19-24, 2024 in Hollywood. Throughout the day, screenings of Native American films at the TCL Chinese Theater in auditorium #6

INDIO: Indio Powwow November 29-December 1, 2024
The powwow will start at 5 p.m. on Friday, and 11 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday
Fantasy Springs Resort & Casino Event Center
84-245 Indio Springs Dr.
Indio, CA
Free admission, fantasyspringsresort.com/ cbmi/
Announcers Vince Byle & Edmond Nevaquaya
 The Indio Powwow on the Cabazon Indian Reservation in Indio, California includes Native American dance competitions for contestants of all ages, bird singing, and drum contests. There are also opportunities for visitors to join dancers in the arena during non-competitive, inter-tribal dancing. The event is held in The Fantasy Springs Resort Special Event Center (indoors).
FRIDAY: 5 p.m. Gates Open & Bird Singing; Peon Games age 18 & under;  8 p.m. Grand Entry
SATURDAY: 11 a.m. Gates Open; 1 p.m. Grand Entry; 5 p.m. Bird Singing; Peon Games Adult Men & Women; 8 p.m. Grand Entry
SUNDAY: 11 a.m. Gates Open; 12 Noon Grand Entry
In addition to sing & dance contests, specials this year is  Smoke Dance Showdown in honor of Valerie Parker-Campbell; Women's Fancy Shawl age 16 and up; Old-style and Contemporary Special Five Places & Five Consolations honoring graduates of Justice Studies Bachelor of Science degree,  for Viviana Diaz & Madison Diaz.

 

 

Past events

COSTA MESA: Southern California Indian Center Cultural Festival Annual Pow Wow 
Saturday and Sunday
OC Fair & Event Center
88 Fair Drive
Costa Mesa, CA
 indiancenter.org
Southern California Indian Center's (SCIC) Annual PowWow & Cultural Festival includes vendors, food, and two days of entertaining and educational pageantry -- There is Future in Tradition. Optional donations: canned food items and unwrapped, new toys. All dancers and drums are welcome.

SACRAMENTO: California Native American Day
Capitol Park
Sacramento, CA 95816
Free, public invited, cihcfoundation.org
Dancers, proclamations, and information booths. This is a day honoring and celebrating Native Americans, their culture, and contributions both past and present. Food vendors, arts & crafts and more.

SACRAMENTO: Acorn Day 
State Indian Museum
2618 K Street
Sacramento, CA 95816
(916) 324-0971
cihcfoundation.org
Join Diana Almendariz, Maidu/Wintu, for traditional acorn processing. ​ 

SACRAMENTO: Indian Arts & Crafts Holiday Fair 
State Indian Museum
2618 K Street
Sacramento, CA 95816
Free, public invited, cihcfoundation.org
Stress-free Black Friday shopping for unique gifts, just in time for the holidays! Vendors: call (916) 445-8115 for application

ROSEVILLE: All Nations Craft Fair November 9, 2024, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Maidu Museum & Historic Site
1970 Johnson Ranch Dr.
Roseville, CA
Free admission & parking, roseville.ca.us
Native American craft fair includes jewelry, basketry, and items made from California tribes and the Cherokee Nation.

EL CAJON:  Cuyamaca College Powwow 
Cuyamaca College
B Building Quad
900 Rancho San Diego Parkway
El Cajon, CA 92109
Free, NASAcuyamacollege@ gmail.com
San Diego American Indian Health Center, Family Health Centers of San Diego and Southern California American Indian Resource Center (SCAIR) participate in this event which includes vendor info and resources for students and the public. Cuyamaca College offers a Kumeyaay Studies certificate program, mentoring program for Native American students and an annual pow wow with Cuyamaca College Native American Student Alliance.

CLAREMONT: Pomona College Annual Powwow
Grand Entry Noon
Pomona College
Hammer Throw Field
295 E. First St., South Campus
Claremont, CA 91711
pomona.edu
Los Angeles County has the highest population of American Indians of any county in the country, according to the 2010 U.S. Census, with approximately 200,000 Native Americans residing in the Los Angeles metropolitan area. This intertribal gathering will celebrate Native American culture and honor traditions through music and dance. The Master of Ceremonies will be Michael Reifel of the San Carlos Apache Reservation. Northern host drum will be Wildhorse and Southern host drum will be Phil Hale and Company who will provide powwow songs for the dancers throughout the day. The Anahuacalmecac Danzantes Aztecas, Kim Marcus Bird Singers and the White Rose Singers (all women's drum group) of Sherman Indian School will also participate. Community members will be able to share an intertribal dance in the dance arena at various times throughout the day.

ARCATA: California Big Time & Social Gathering 
Free
Humboldt State University, West Gym
Arcata, CA
itepp.humboldt.edu/
See California Native dances, songs and traditional card games. Learn about tribal resources and issues. Meet tribal leaders and elders and honor the land of the Wiyot Tribe, on which the campus is located. Arts and crafts are available for sale.

FRESNO: First Nations Annual Fresno State Powwow 
Barstow Ave & Woodrow Ave.
Fresno, CA
fresnostate.edu
O'Neill Park on Barstow Ave. at Woodrow Ave.
The Public is Invited. Arts & Crafts Booths, Information Booths, Indian Tacos and more.

DAVIS: UC Davis Powwow April 13, 2024, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Grand Entry at 12 Noon, rain may cancel
ccc.ucdavis.edu/nativeamerican.html
UC Davis Outdoor East and West Quad, One Shields Ave., Davis, CA
The Annual UC Davis Pow Wow will take place
UC Davis Outdoor East and West Quad
1 Shields Ave
Davis, CA
facebook.com/powwowatucd
ucdpowwow1@gmail.com
Dance Registration begins at 10 a.m.
Gourd Dance begins at 11 a.m.
Grand Entry is at Noon
All dancers, drums, and spectators welcome!
The Powwow committee is excited to share the 49th Annual UC Davis Powwow!   

RIVERSIDE: Sherman Indian High School Pow Wow 
Sherman Indian High School Inter Tribal Powwow
Sherman Indian High School Ira Hayes Football Stadium
9010 Magnolia
Riverside, CA
shermanindian.org | shermanindianmuseum.org
Pow Wow includes the annual Alumni Basketball Game. Native American color guard groups participating Arts and Crafts vendors and Indian food. Many school clubs will be fundraising as well as community artisans and groups. There will be gourd dancing by invited our Gourd Society (Culture Awareness Area,) basket weaving and other traditional arts demonstrations. Non profit Native American service and cultural booths bring resources and culture awareness to the public. Inter-tribal dancers come from Southern California area to participate in the grand entries and inter-tribals and contests.

MODESTO: Annual Modesto Junior College Pow Wow  April 17, 2022
This annual inter-tribal one day pow wow is sponsored by Associated Students Of Modesto Junior College.
mjc.edu
435 College Avenue
Modesto, CA
Free admission
Gourd Dancing 11 a.m.
Grand Entry 12 Noon

SUSANVILLE: Susanville Indian Rancheria Powwow June 23-25, 2023
Lassen County Fairgrounds
195 Russell Ave
Susanville CA 96130
sir-powwow.com
Lassen County Fairgrounds, Free Admission!

BAKERSFIELD Annual, 10 a.m. daily Standing Bear Powwow
Kern County Fairgrounds
1142 South P Street
Bakersfield, CA
Intertribal dancing Native Arts & Crafts Cultural Awareness Native Foods Family Fun All Drums & Dancers Welcome Open Gourd.

EUREKA: Elders Gathering Sharing Our Traditions - Elders' Honoring Ceremony In keeping with the spirit of Thanksgiving and National American Indian Heritage Month, the Public is invited to attend. Elders are served a free traditional dinner beginning at noon followed by an Elders' Gifting Ceremony at 3 p.m. Everyone is welcome - FREE admission Donations appreciated Dinner. Northern California Indian Development Council

ONTARIO May
Annual Eagle and Condor Intertribal Powwow
DeAnza Park
Ontario, Ca
Info: elkwhistle@whitepathmusic.org

AUBERRY May
Big Sandy Rancheria's Annual Powwow and Gathering
37802 Jose Basin Rd
Auberry, Ca

Pit River Big-Time Powwow June
The Eleven Bands of the Pit River Tribe Welcome you. "Honoring Our Elders
Pit River Casino - 20265 Tamarack Ave, Burney CA 96013 Showers & Camping Available, RV Park Host Motel: Burney Falls Hand Game Tournament Horse Shoe TournAll Nations Native Craft Fair Looking for that one of a kind gift for Christmas? Come to our 6th annual craft fair and shop for contemporary jewelry, basketry and other items made by vendors from California tribes and the Cherokee Nation. Free admission and parking. Rain or shine. Location: Maidu Activity Center Sat • 12/2 • 10am–3pmament A Beautiful Native American Cultural Event for everyone to enjoy - no drugs and alcohol allowed
Pit River Powwow on facebook
All are welcome - free admission

TEMECULA: Pechanga Pow Wow January 6-8, 2023
Annual Pechanga Powwow
45000 Pechanga Pkwy
Temecula, Ca
pechanga.com

MANTECA
Annual Three Rivers Lodge Powwow
13505 Union Rd, Three Rivers Indian Lodge
Manteca, Ca
Info: (209)858-2421

Big Time Gathering Pow-wow
Lucerne Valley, CA Pioneer Park.
33187 Old Woman Springs Road.

University of Redlands Pow wow
University of Redlands
1200 E Colton Ave. - Redlands, CA
redlands.edu

Pomoma College Powwow
Pomoma College Hammer Throw Field
295 E. First St, Claremont, Ca
facebook.com/events/226650374183216/
(South Campus Parking Structure, located on First Street between Columbia Avenue and Amherst Avenue).

San Diego State University Pow Wow
Honoring SDSU Professors Dr. Linda Parker and Roy Cook

ROSEVILLE Yomen: A Spring Celebration
The Maidu Yomen spring event is one of many traditional acknowledgements and celebrations of the natural cycles of the earth by the local Native Peoples. If you knew what to look for, each season brought a new opportunity for bounty from the ever changing living landscape.

SAN JUAN BAUTISTA: California Indian Market & Peace Pow Wow AND Indian Market
The Alameda - Third Street  Admission is a $1. donation benefiting Peace Vision, a 501(c)3, promoting Peace Through The Arts. This event features Native American artists, dancers, drummers and singers from North and South America and multi-cultural vendors. One Earth, One People, Peace Vision and the San Juan Intertribal Council is billed as a "living prayer for world peace" along with a show and sale of arts and crafts including; basketry, dance regalia, dolls, dream catchers, drums, jewelry, paintings, pottery, sculpture, weavings and more! sanjuanbautistaca.com

Hoopa Valley Tribe Sovereign Days
Activities on Front Lawn, Youth Center and Pookey's Park
Swimming Pool Open, Watermelon Eating Contest, Miss Native pageant

SAN JUAN BAUTISTA: California Indian Market & Peace Pow Wow
The Alameda Street at Highway 156 East.
Celebrating Cinco de Mayo & World Cultures. Admission is a $1 donation Under 12 free
sanjuanbautistaca.com
A Peace Dance honors veterans. Native Americans, Western, Wildlife Arts, Dancers, Drums, Food. One Earth, One People, Peace Vision and the San Juan Intertribal Council is billed as a "Living prayer for world peace"

FORT ROSS: Alaska Native Day
Fort Ross State Historic Park
19005 Coast Highway
Jenner, CA 95450
$8 per car, parks.ca.gov
Alaska Natives celebrate history at Fort Ross. In the 1821 Census, there were 156 Alaska Natives living on the bluff overlooking the ocean at Metini/Fort Ross.

NOVATO: Museum of the American Indian
Miwok Park
2200 Novato Blvd.
novato.org
Learn about the Museum history, dedication of a new outdoor teaching area and recognition of Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria. The Founders of the Museum which include members of Novato High School's Archaeology Club from the 1960s are honored at the event. Parking will be available at All Saints Lutheran Church (2 Marin Drive), and a shuttle to the park will be provided. Light refreshments served.

BANNING: Kewet Celebration 
Malki Museum
11795 Malki Rd.
Banning, CA
malkimuseum.org
BBQ Pit, Native foods, Indian tacos, Bird Singing & Dancing, and Native arts & crafts.

BISHOP: Taatsawano Traditional Gathering
Native Crafts & Food Booths, Live Music & Cultural Performances, Hand Games & More. Family-friendly event. Paiute-Shoshone Indian Cultural Center. Arts & Crafts, Food & Drink, Kids, Music Location: Owens Valley Paiute Shoshone Cultural Center, 2300 West Line Street, Bishop, CA 93514. Phone: 760-873-8844.

 

PINE GROVE: Chaw'se Day May
Chaw'se Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park
14881 Pine Grove Volcano Rd.
Pine Grove, CA
(209) 223-8102
Free admission
Presented by the Jackson Rancheria Band of Miwuk Indians. Open to the Public. Welcome Spring with Native American games, cuisine, dancing, crafts and more! JacksonCasino.com

INYO: Taatsawano Traditional Gathering 
Everyone is Welcome!
Sweat
Talking Circle
Traditional Dancers
Bear Dance
Deep Pit BBQ
Camping Available
bishopvisitor.com
Native Crafts & Food Booths, Live Music & Cultural Performances, Hand Games & More. Family-friendly event. Paiute-Shoshone Indian Cultural Ctr.

MARYSVILLE: Yuba Sutter Honor Our Youth Pow Wow
442 Franklin Ave.
Yuba City, CA
 Annual Yuba-Sutter Pow Wow Native American Honor Our Youth Pow Wow
All Dancers and Drums Welcome Hand Drum Contest - Flute Playing Contest - All Ages Contest Dancing

INDIAN WELLS: Desert Pow Wow (now called Round UP) for AA, Al-Anon  June 6-9, 2024
desertpowwow.com
A.A. Desert Pow Wow
With AL-ANON participation
Renaissance Indian Wells Resort & Spa
Desert Pow Wow - Indian Wells, CA

SAN JACINTO:  Soboba  Pow Wow 
Soboba Arena
23333 Soboba Road
San Jacinto, California 92583
Free Admission, open to public, everyone is welcome. facebook.com/SobobaAnnualPowWow/

RIVERSIDE: UC Riverside Annual Tribal Powwow May 26-28, 2023. Friday 5-10 p.m. with Grand Entry at 7p. Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m. with Grand Entry at 1 & 7p. Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. with Grand Entry at 1p. Arts, crafts, food vendors, and tribal drums and fancy dance. Location: Campus of UC Riverside, Riverside Riverside Sports Complex, 1000 W. Blaine St. Riverside, CA 92507 Riverside, CA Free admission and parking, public invited, nasp.ucr.ed 
MC is Jackson Rollingthunder Tahuka
Ad: Victor Chavez
Head Woman: Aurora Toledo
Head Man: Zion Fox
Outgoing Ms. UCR Pow Wow Princess Kiara Love Flores
All drums, dancers, birdsingers welcome

SAN FRANCISCO: Bay Area American Indian Two Spirits 25th Anniversary  Powwow February 10, 2024
Fort Mason Festival Pavilion
2 Marina Blvd.
San Francisco, CA 94115
Cost: Free Everyone is welcome, baaits.org |
facebook.com/baaitscommunity
Parking: Pay lot on site, limited free street parking off site should attend: This is a family-friendly, clean and sober event. Street attire is encouraged. The Baaits Powwow embraces traditional Native American culture while also providing a uniquely San Francisco experience. 

NORTH FORK: Sierra Mono Museum 51st Annual Indian Days Fair & Pow Wow August 5-6, 2023
North Fork Recreation Center
North Fork, CA
yosemitethisyear.com  | facebook.com/ groups/ sierramonomuseum/
Sierra Mono Museum Indian Fair Days & Pow Wow. Held the first week of August at the recreation center in North Fork.
 Annual Pow Wow and Indian Fairs Days includes Native American crafts, food, music, dance competitions, and exciting entertainment. All proceeds from the Pow Wow and raffle benefit Sierra Mono Museum, a non-profit 501c preserving the history and culture of the Mono Indians.

SACRAMENTO: Sacramento Pow Wow August 11-13, 2023
O'Neil Park
715 Broadway
Sacramento, CA
$5 + free parking
facebook.com/SacPowWow/

HAWAIIAN GARDENS: Annual Friendship Pow Wow  August 17-18, 2024, 12 p.m.

Furgeson Elementary School, Baseball Field
22215 S. Elaine Avenue
Hawaiian Gardens, CA 90716
hgcity.org
Saturday, 12-8 p.m.
Sunday, 12-6 p.m.
Head Staff
Spiritual Advisor: Robert Jacobo, Ohlone/Yaqui
Master of Ceremony: Glen Begay, Dine
Arena Director: Victor Chavez, Dine
Head Man Dancer: John Velasquez, Apache Jicarilla
Head Woman Dancer: Angie Cruz, Pascua Yaqui
Southern Host Drums: Hale & Company, Dine
Northern Host Drum: Bear Springs
Fire Keeper: Rene Lara

LEMOORE: Santa Rosa Day's Pow Wow & Gathering August 26-27, 2023
Tachi Palace Hotel & Casino
Yokut Hall behind hotel
17225 Jersey Ave
Lemoore, CA
m.facebook.com/ groups/ 525799659191374/
Gourd Dance Saturday @ 11am & 6pm; Sunday @ 11am
Grand Entry Saturday @ 12pm & 7pm; Sunday @ 12pm
Head Staff:
Northern Drum ShowTime
Southern Drum White Tail Boyz
Flag Bearers Tule River Veterans Post 1987
Head Gourd Rick Yazzie
MC Carlos Calica
AD Randall Paskemin
Head Judge Martin Montgomery
Head Man Adam Norwall
Head Woman Azelena Rosales
Head Young Man Luka Montgomery-Gomez
Head Young Woman Imani Manuel
Tabulators Pine Country Tabulations
Santa Rosa Days Royalty Mr. Tach Jarrold Jeff; Miss Tachi  Faye Jeff; Senior Princess Ruby Garcia; Junior Brave DeRay Flenoid; Junior Princess Neveena Herrera
Committee Special IRON MAN Men vs Women's Fancy DANCE OFF!
Other Specials Pete Baga Memorial Special; Women's Jingle and Hat & Boot Specials; Elmer Thomas Memorial Special Men's Northern Traditional All Categories & Adult Men's Chicken Dance Special

2024 Pow Wows

LONG BEACH: California State University, Long Beach POW WOW & Outreach Puvungna Powwow March 9-10, 2024
Cal St University Long Beach
1250 Bellflower Blvd.
Long Beach, CA
Pow Wow
California State University, Long Beach
csulb.edu/powwow
Public is Welcome. Admission and Parking are free. Dancers and drums welcome!
The largest spring event of its kind in Southern California, the Pow Wow at Cal State Long Beach is focused on displaying the university's strong American Indian presence. Admission and parking are free. 

SAN RAFAEL: Marin Powwow March 17, 2024, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Terra Linda High School New Gym
320 Nova Albion Way
San Rafael, CA
Celebrate the Indigenous communities that live and work in Marin on Coast Miwok land. Since 1968 the Marin American Indian Alliance (MAIA) has been a place where Indigenous people get together to share traditions, songs, dances and prayer.
Open Gourd Dance 11 a.m.
Grand Entries 12 & 5:30 p.m.
Master of Ceremonies: Tom Phillips (Kiowa & Muscogee)
Arena Director: Reuben Crowfeather (Standing Rock Hunkpapa)
Host Northern Drum: All Nations
Host Southern Drum: Red Buffalo
Head Woman Dancer: Yvonne Marshall (Shoshone Bannoc, E. Shoshone)
Head Man Dancer: Darren Henson (Keetoowah Cherokee)
Head Teen Girl: Rain Wilcox (Dine & Ohkay Owingeh)
Head Teen Boy: Tank Young (Cherokee, Choctaw, Jacarilla Apache & Taos Pueblo)
Hoop Dancer: Eddie Madril (Pasque Yaqui)
California Dance Group: Su-Nu-Nu-Shinal (Huckleberry Heights)
Azteca Dance Group
Hawaiian Dance Group: Halau Hula Na Pua O Ka La' akea

MALIBU: Malibu Chumash Powwow  April 6-7, 2024
Malibu Bluffs, Ca
Chumash Day Powwow
Malibu Bluffs Park
24250 Pacific Coast Hwy
Malibu, Ca
malibucity.org
Free admission & free parking (park at Webb Way & Civic Center Way to take the free shuttle)
Chumash powwow with traditional arena dancing and traditional Native American food and arts and crafts. Annual Chumash Day Powwow and Inter Tribal Gathering. All drums and dancers welcome!
2024 Head Staff:
MC - Randy Pico
Arena Director - Vic Chavez, Din`e
Head Man - John Velasquez, Apache Jicarilla from New Mexico
Head Woman - Kiara Flores, Kuupangaxwichem/Cupeño & Northern Ute
Head Young Boy - Nathaniel Gonzales, Tejon
Head Young Girl - Fallen Star Padilla, Caxcan Metis

CARSON: CSU Dominguez Hills Annual Pow Wow April 20-21, 2024 
Dominguez Hills Sculpture Garden
1000 East Victoria Street,
Carson , CA
$10 parking, csudh.edu
Saturday 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Indian Marketplace
Honoring the Indigenous Peoples of the Americas Spiritual American Indian Marketplace, Frybread, Indian tacos
Spiritual Leade Robert Jacobo (Yaqui/Ohlone)
Master of Ceremonies Phillip Hale (Dine)
Head Man Dancer Ricky Two Bears Myers (Nanticoke Lenape/Hopi)
Head Woman Dancer Sequoia Salas (Paiute/Kitanemuk)
Host Northern Drum Phoenix Boyz
Host Southern Drum Hale & Company
National Champion Hoop Dancer Terry Goedel (Tulalip)

POMONA: Ohlone Big Time Gathering and Pow Wow April 26-28, 2024
Tony Cerda Park
400 W Grand Ave
Pomona, CA
costanoanrumsen.org
Friday 6-10 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.-Dusk
Friday will be Calistyle starting at 6 p.m. with special guests and ceremony led by the Costanoan Rumsen Carmel Tribe. Grand Entry Saturday at the 12 p.m. Noon!
Hosted by the Costanoan Rumsen Carmel Tribe
MC: Walter Ahaitty
Arena Director: Ashkii Keediniihi
Head Man: Matwau Andraca (Nahua, Apache)
Head Woman: Christa McGowan (Baxoje Iowas of Kansas & Nebraska)
Head Young Boy: Nico Peralez (Rumsen Ohlone)
Head Young Girl: Sequoia Stronghorse (Tahuka-Acjachemen, Seminole, Dine
Head Drum: Wildhorse Singers
Spiritual Advisor: Tinker Gomez

STANFORD: Pow Wow May 10-12, 2024
Embarcadero Road exit (from 101) west toward Stanford
powwow.stanford.edu
Free admission, Donation for Parking Fee
Social Dances public participation encouraged
Stanford Native American Alumni Gathering
Invocation and Introduction of Head Staff
Annual Stanford University Powwow
Eucalyptus Grove, Stanford, Anyone and Everyone is welcome!
Indian Art Market, Information Booths, Camping options
Embarcadero turns into Galvez Street at El Camino Real as
you enter campus near Stanford Stadium. The Powwow will be
to your right--follow the signs to parking.

MARIPOSA: Chi-Tock-Non Kote-U-Pu - Spring Celebration Pow Wow May 11-12, 2024
Mariposa Co. Fairgrounds
5007 Fairgrounds Rd.
Mariposa, CA
yosemite.com
Saturday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
$3 approx. entry donation, approx.
Once a year the American Indian Council of Mariposa County (AICMC) - aka the Southern Sierra Miwuk Nation - organizes a traditional Native American celebration. To most people this celebration is known as a Pow Wow but, to us it is known as Chi-Tock-Non Kote-U-Pu - Spring Celebration. Annual Pow Wow and is important not only as a celebration of Native American culture, song and dance but, more importantly, helps to fund the Nellie Tucker Scholarship. At present, the Southern Sierra Miwuk are not Federally recognized and, therefore, do not qualify for the larger Scholarships and Grants that are available to recognized tribes. The Nellie Tucker scholarship, administered through the AICMC, provides funds for local Native students who are trying to further their education.

TUOLUMNE: California Indian Market May 18, 2024, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 
Black Oak Casino Resort
19400 Tuolumne Road North
Tuolumne, CA
Free admission, blackoakcasino.com
Experience California Native American traditions: Eat Indian tacos, see demonstrations of weaving, basketry, carving, Indian games and buy California handmade baskets, jewelry and other treasures made by Native residents.

RIVERSIDE: UC Riverside Annual Tribal Powwow May 24-26, 2024  
Campus of UC Riverside
900 University Ave
Riverside, Ca
nasp.ucr.edu/
University of California, Riverside
Riverside Sports Complex
1000 W. Blaine St. Riverside, CA 92507
Parking in Lot 26 Enter on Rustin Ave.
Admission is Free & Open to the Public
All Dancers, Drums, and Bird Singers Welcome!
The event is an inter-tribal social gathering celebrating Native American culture and traditions through singing, drumming, and dancing. Traditional Native American dancers, drum groups, bird singers, and other artists will be present, and vendors will sell food, handmade Native American jewelry, arts and crafts, and other merchandise.

SAN DIEGO: May 11-12, 2024
American Indian Heritage Pow-Wow 2-Day Event A Native Indian Pow-Wow in Balboa Park
Park Blvd. & President's Way
San Diego, CA
Free, sdaihc.org/powwow/
Grand Entry Noon
includes Native Indians sharing their rich heritage to the people of San Diego through drumming, dancing, singing, and storytelling. Tasty food and hand-made items such as beadwork, jewelry, and pottery are for sale. Admission None. Hosted By San Diego American Indian Health Center

LA JOLLA: Annual UCSD Powwow May 18, 2024
University of California at San Diego Warren Field
9500 Gilman Drive
La Jolla, CA
ucsd.edu | facebook.com/ucsdpowwow

OXNARD: Redbird's Annual Children of Many Colors Native American Powwow  June 7-9, 2024
Oxnard College
Gymnasium Field
4000 S. Rose
Oxnard, CA
redbirdsvisions.org/ powwow-time.html - Corina Roberts
AD: Vic Chavez
MC: Michael Runningwind
Head Man: Carlos Miranda, Jr.
Head Young Man: Gabriel Razo
Host & Invited Drums: Hale & Company, Blue Star, Wildhorse Singers
Additional Head Staff
Native American singing, dancing drumming, arts, dancing, drumming, flute, Gourd Dancing, Bird Singing, Princess contest, Veterans Honoring, arts, crafts, food and non profit booths, traditional dwellings, a family style intertribal gathering, crafts, food and traditional dwellings $2 suggested donation per vehicle. Friday evening open flute circle; Powwow Saturday and Sunday. Hosted by Redbird, a Native American and environmental non profit association. Event prohibits alcohol, drugs, fire arms or fireworks. Public welcome, free parking, free admission. June 7, 2024, 6 p.m. open flute circle; Saturday and Sunday Intertribal Powwow Veteran's Honoring Sunday 12 p.m. 

LOS ANGELES: American Indian Arts Marketplace June 8-9, 2024
4700 Western Heritage Way
Los Angeles, CA 90027
(323) 667-2000
$, theautry.org
The largest Native American arts fair in Southern California, the Autry's American Indian Arts Marketplace features 200 Native American artists

OCEANSIDE: San Luis Rey Inter Tribal Pow Wow June 8-9, 2024
San Luis Rey Mission Grounds
4050 Mission Avenue
Oceanside, CA
slrmissionindians.org
Saturday 9 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Head Man: Daniel Freeman (Pechanga)
Head Woman: Kiara Love Flores (Cupeno, Northern Ute)
All Dancers & Drums Welcome, Food Booth Opportunity, Drawing, Arts & Crafts. The goal is to share culture and traditions with the public as well as bring awareness that Native Americans still exist in and around our communities. Sponsored by the San Luis Rey Band of Mission Indians.
Saturday, June 8, 2024
10 a.m. Blessing of the Arena
10:30 a.m. Gourd Dancing
12 p.m. noon Grand Entry (no Photography during the Grand Entry)
1 p.m. Inter-Tribal Dancing, Contest Dancing
5 p.m. Dinner Break
6 p.m. Gourd Dancing
7 pm Grand Entry (please no Photography during the Grand Entry)
8 pm Inter-Tribal Dancing
11 p.m.  Retreat Colors
Sunday, June 9, 2024
10:30 a.m.  Gourd Dancing
12 noon Grand Entry (no Photography during the Grand Entry)
2 p.m.  Inter-Tribal Dancing, Contest Dancing
5 p.m.  Committee Honorarium
6 p.m.  Closing Song
Retreat Colors

SAN DIEGO: Native American Powwwow June 30, 2024, 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m. at San Diego Fair

The Del Mar Fairgrounds Del Mar Arena
2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd.
Del Mar, California 92014
sdfair.com
Held in the Del Mar Arena, you'll enjoy colorful regalia, intricate dances, drum circles, and singing. Each dance features a unique style and significance. Attendees can also enjoy Native American arts and crafts vendors, traditional foods like fry bread and Indian tacos, as well as educational presentations on Native culture and history.

Head Staff for this special program include:
Emcee  Walter Ahhaitty
Arena Director  Adam Loya
Eagle Staff Carrier  Richard DeCrane
Color Guard  AIVA of Southern California
Head Gourd Dancer - Ivan Sam
Head Man  Sam Bearpaw
Head Woman  Julie Labrake
Head Young Woman - Winter Begay
Head Young Man  Gabriel Razo
Head Tiny Tot Boy  Jaxton La Chappa
Head Tiny Tot Girl  Willow Garfield
Host Northern Drum  Bear Springs
Host Southern Drum  Shakey Town
Invited Northern Drum  Green River
Invited Southern Drum  Red Warrior
Bird Singers  Paul Cuero Jr.
Dinner Break  Danza Azteca Xochipilli

NAPA: Annual Pow-wow no date TBA
Skyline Wilderness Park
Napa, California (North of Napa on Hwy 29)
Free admission, Families welcome, suscolcouncil.org
Grand Entry noon on Saturday.
Bring a blanket or chair. Food and Craft vendors available.
 Suscol Intertribal Council
Honoring Native American Elders

LAKESIDE: Barona Powwow August 30-September 1, 2024
Lakeside, CA, 
Barona Sports Park, Barona Indian Reservation
1000 Wildcat Canyon Rd
Lakeside, CA
Barona Tribal Office
Free admission,  facebook.com/BaronaPowwow
Join the Barona Band of Mission Indians for a weekend of contest dancing in all categories, camping, drums and cultural immersion. Contestant dancing in all categories! Dry camping permitted. All drums and dancers welcome.
 Saturday FunRun 5K - 8am Gourd Dancing - 12:30pm and 6pm Grand Entry - 2pm and 8pm 49 contest after Saturday evening session
Sunday Gourd Dancing - 12:30pm and 6pm Grand Entry - 2pm and 8pm
Home Government Community History Education Environment Powwow 
Barona Band of Mission Indians Tribal Office - 1095 Barona Road, Lakeside, CA 92040

PALA: Pala Honoring Traditions Gathering August 31, 2024 12 p.m.
Pala Rey Youth Campground
10779 Hwy 79
Pala, CA
palatribe.com
Bird singing, peon, homemade bow and arrow contest, contests, games, shinny games (local teams), Planet Pala Activity Zone, and more.

FELTON: Ohlone Day
Henry Cowell Redwood State Park
Felton, CA
parks.ca.gov
Annual event Ohlone demonstrators share traditional basketry, songs, stories, tools, musical instruments, language and history. During this family-friendly event, visitors can throw an atlatl, play Ohlone games, find out how rocks were used to cook meals and more!

Note: The author of this page, Debbie Stock, never met her great-grandmother, Eva Yates, a Cherokee Indian. Yates had changed her name and married an Irishman in attempts to escape the fate of other tribe members during the Trail of Tears ethnic cleansing, or genocide, as some historians claim. While this web page isn't always up-t0-date, the effort to post events is in memory Eva Yates and thousands of Native Americans affected by U.S. Congress's Indian Removal Act.

Events are not guaranteed. It is your responsibility to confirm before going.