43rd Annual Traditional Pow wow and Indian Market

The 43rd Annual Traditional Pow Wow and Indian Market will take place on August 16-17, 2025, at the Boone County 4-H Fairgrounds in Lebanon, Indiana. This event is organized by the American Indian Council, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving Native American traditions and culture. It features traditional Native American dancing and singing, native crafts, and food vendors, providing a rich cultural experience focused on honoring indigenous heritage.

Event vibe and surroundings:
The Pow Wow is a lively cultural celebration that brings together a diverse Native American community along with visitors interested in experiencing authentic traditions. The fairgrounds provide ample space to host dancing arenas, craft stalls, food booths, and social gathering areas, creating an immersive festival atmosphere that encourages socializing, learning, and cultural exchange.

Typical event schedule and activities:

Saturday:

• Gates open at 10:00 a.m.
• Grand Entry (beginning ceremonial dance and dancing sessions) at 1:00 p.m.
• Feast for participants around 5:00 p.m.
• Evening dance session with a second Grand Entry at 6:30 p.m.
• Closing around 9:30 p.m.

Sunday:

• Gates open at 10:30 a.m.
• Grand Entry for afternoon dancing at 1:00 p.m.
• Event closes by 4:30 p.m.

Activities include:

• Traditional Native American dancing and singing: Celebrating various tribal styles with intertribal dances and dance specials, performed during the Grand Entry and throughout dance sessions.
• Indian Market: Vendors offering handmade native crafts such as beadwork, jewelry, pottery, textiles, and art.
• Food Vendors: Traditional Native American foods and other offerings providing a cultural taste experience.
• Socializing and Education: Opportunities to interact with members of different tribes, learn about tribal histories, traditions, and the significance of the dances and regalia.

History and founding:
The American Indian Council of Boone County, which organizes this event, is a nonprofit that has hosted multiple annual powwows for several decades. This event celebrated its 37th anniversary in 2018, indicating its deep roots in the community. The council is committed to "keeping Native ways alive" and hosts two annual powwows in Lebanon to support cultural preservation and education. The organization also meets regularly at the fairgrounds and is open to new members who wish to support Native American cultural activities.

Admission:
There is a charge for admission to support the event, with discounted rates for children, elders, and dancers. Children under 6 generally are admitted free.

In summary, the 43rd Annual Traditional Pow Wow and Indian Market in Lebanon, Indiana, is a well-established cultural event centered on authentic Native American traditions through music, dance, art, and food, held in a welcoming fairgrounds environment that fosters community interaction and heritage celebration.