Common Questions:
 Who may attend the Southern Illinois Saluki Pow Wow?
Anyone may attend the pow wow – it is free and open to the public.  This is a regional community event, for people of all ages to come together and enjoy, to relax and to have fun.  All that is required is a respect for Native American culture and for pow wow etiquette.  The pow wow is a social event (as well as an educational and cultural day).  Note that this is an alcohol- and drug-free event.
Are spectators allowed to dance?
Yes, all people are welcome to participate during intertribal or social dances.  Regalia is not required for these dances.  The Master of Ceremonies will invite participants into the arena during these times.   Families, please keep your children close so they remain safe, and please do not let children enter the arena circle unless dancing.
Are photographs or video allowed?
Yes, you may take pictures for personal use only -- providing you politely ask and get permission from the dancer or other individual you are interested in photographing away from the dance arena.  During the exhibition dances, you may take photos of the dance and dancers from outside the arena.  You may not take photos during Veteran, Flag, or Honor Songs or during prayers.  Please do not go into the arena to take pictures at any time, and no photos of the drum or drummers may be taken.   
Is there seating available?
There will be special areas set aside for children and for elders, as well as whatever folding chair seating that the building space allows.  As a social event, many people are moving about to visit with one another and to meet artists and craftspeople. 
Will there be food?
Yes, there will be a traditional Pow Wow food vendor all day and evening serving Indian tacos and other treats. 
Why are there multiple Grand Entries?
This event is a very special opportunity for southern Illinois, therefore multiple Grand Entries will be held so that more people may experience and enjoy this ceremonial Entry of the dancers.  Pow Wow activities will occur during the morning, afternoon, and evening to accommodate busy weekend schedules and to welcome as many people as possible over the course of two days.  Please join us at whatever time works best for you and your family.  The event is flexible and you may come and go at your convenience.  A general schedule is listed below:

Friday, April 13th
4pm - Doors Open
4pm - Cultural Demonstrations
4pm - Interactive Native Village and Kids Activity Area open
4pm - Food Booth open
5pm - Various performances on Main Stage
6pm - Grand Entry
7pm - Exhibition, Competition and Intertribal dances
9pm - Last Song
10pm- Doors Close

Saturday, April 14th
10am - Doors Open
10am- Cultural Demonstrations
10am- Interactive Native Village and Kids Activity Area open
10am- Food Booth open
12pm - Grand Entry
1pm - Exhibition,Competition and Intertribal Dances
4pm - Various performances on Main Stage
4:30 - Dancer and Drummer Break - everything else will remain open - great time to grab a bite to eat
6pm - Grand Entry
7pm - Exhibition, Final Round Competition and Intertribal dances
9pm - Last Song
10pm- Doors Close

10pm at the Premiere Lounge - Chase Manhattan, Native American Hip Hop Artist ($5 Cover Charge)
11pm at the Premiere Lounge - The Official 49 ($10 cover, or $8 with Powwow stamp)

SIU_NASO_2012 Pow Wow_WSIUTV

Click here if you are a member of the public and want to learn more.

If you are interested in participating or finding out who is already participating, click here.

For more details, call 529-8040