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'Having fun with our culture' at powwow

Man adjusting a child's headdress
Posted at 12:26 AM, Apr 23, 2023
and last updated 2023-04-23 02:36:36-04

BILLINGS — On Friday, the 53rd annual Montana State University-Billings (MSUB) Powwow kicked off with a welcoming ceremony. On Saturday, the celebration continued into the night.

"It's representing just having fun with our culture," said David Evans, a student at MSUB and the head man dancer, on Saturday. "Everyone's getting together and just celebrating."

Grand entry at the Powwow
Grand entry at the Powwow

It's a way to come together and keep the culture alive.

Evans states his favorite parts about the Powwow are "Just having fun and jamming out."

"This is fun, and like I said, it's just a way to bring all of us together. Catch up with everybody, visit, have laughs. Just rock our mocs," Evans said, referring to his moccasin-style shoes.

David Evans
David Evans

This year's theme was "The Mind is Sacred".

"(It was chosen because) a lot of, like, mental health awareness," Evans said. "Just keeping yourself together and having everything good in health and in life."

Various age categories are offered at the Powwow, and competitors have the chance to take home cash prizes.

"It's all ages and we want everyone to come watch," Evans said.

Child at the Powwow
Child at the Powwow

Participants traveled from all across the United States and even Canada to participate.

The Powwow had to take a break during the pandemic, but returned in full force last year.

Both participants and spectators were thrilled to be back again.

"I'd like to say thank you to everyone who came and supported," Evans said. "Let's have fun!"

Waiting for the Powwow to start
Waiting for the Powwow to start

To learn more about the event, click here.


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