How to Catch the Gathering of Nations Pow Wow in Albuquerque

The Gathering of Nations Pow Wow in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is the largest and most prestigious Native American pow wow in North America. Held annually since 1983, this vibrant cultural celebration draws over 100,000 attendees and more than 900 tribes from across the United States, Canada, and even international Indigenous communities. It is far more than a dance competition—it is a living tapestry of tradition, music, regalia, storytelling, and spiritual connection. For visitors, whether they are Indigenous individuals reconnecting with heritage or outsiders seeking authentic cultural immersion, attending the Gathering of Nations is a transformative experience. But catching this event—meaning securing access, navigating logistics, understanding protocols, and fully engaging with its meaning—requires more than just showing up. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to ensure you don’t just attend, but truly experience the Gathering of Nations with respect, preparation, and deep appreciation.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Event’s Significance and Timing

Before making travel plans, it’s essential to grasp why the Gathering of Nations matters. Unlike commercial festivals, this event is rooted in centuries-old Indigenous traditions of gathering, honoring ancestors, celebrating survival, and passing down cultural knowledge. The pow wow is not a performance for spectators—it is a sacred communal gathering where dance, song, and regalia carry deep spiritual and historical weight.

The event takes place every year on the third full weekend of April at the Albuquerque Convention Center and surrounding grounds. In 2025, that will be April 18–20. The schedule typically begins on Friday with registration and vendor setup, with the main dancing competitions starting Saturday morning and continuing through Sunday evening. The Grand Entry—the ceremonial opening of the pow wow—is the most significant moment and occurs at 1:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday. Arriving early is non-negotiable if you wish to witness this ritual.

Step 2: Secure Your Tickets in Advance

Tickets for the Gathering of Nations are not sold at the door on a reliable basis. While a limited number may be available on-site, they often sell out, especially for weekend passes. The only official ticketing platform is the Gathering of Nations website: gatheringofnations.com. Purchase your tickets here as soon as they become available—typically in early February. There are three main ticket types:

• Single Day Pass: $20–$25 for adults, $10 for children (12 and under), and $15 for seniors (65+)
• Weekend Pass: $45–$50 (best value for full immersion)
• Vendor/Artist Pass: For those participating or selling goods (requires application)

Children under 5 are free. Consider purchasing a weekend pass—it allows you to experience the full rhythm of the event, from sunrise drum circles to late-night social dances. Always keep your digital or printed ticket accessible; staff will scan it at all entry points.

Step 3: Plan Your Travel and Accommodations Early

Albuquerque experiences a surge in visitors during the Gathering of Nations. Hotels within a 10-mile radius of the Albuquerque Convention Center (1201 2nd St NW) fill up months in advance. Do not wait until March to book. Recommended areas for lodging include:

• Downtown Albuquerque: Closest to the venue, but pricier
• Old Town Albuquerque: Historic charm, cultural immersion, 10-minute drive
• North Valley: Quieter, budget-friendly options with local flavor

Consider alternative accommodations such as Airbnb, homestays with local Indigenous families (if available through community networks), or camping at nearby RV parks like the Albuquerque / Rio Rancho RV Resort. If you’re traveling from out of state, book flights early too. Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) is the closest airport, and rental cars are highly recommended—public transit options are limited during the event.

Step 4: Learn Basic Pow Wow Protocols and Etiquette

Respect is the cornerstone of the Gathering of Nations. Unlike concerts or fairs, pow wows have specific cultural protocols that visitors must honor to participate appropriately. Failure to observe these can be deeply offensive.

Key rules to follow:

• Do not touch regalia. Dance outfits are sacred, handcrafted, and often hold spiritual meaning. Never reach out to touch feathers, beads, or fringe without explicit permission.
• Stay seated during Grand Entry. Everyone stands during the Grand Entry as a sign of respect. Remain standing until the flags and dancers have completed their circuit. Do not walk across the dance arena.
• Ask before photographing dancers. Some dancers, especially elders or those in ceremonial regalia, may not wish to be photographed. Always ask, and if someone declines, respect their decision without question.
• Do not use flash photography. It can distract dancers and disrupt the spiritual atmosphere.
• Do not sit in the arena seating. Reserved seating near the drum is for dancers, drum groups, and honored guests. General seating is in the bleachers around the perimeter.
• Do not bring alcohol, drugs, or weapons. The Gathering of Nations is a sober, sacred space. Violators will be removed immediately.

When in doubt, observe others. Indigenous attendees will naturally follow protocol—mirror their behavior. A quiet, respectful presence speaks volumes.

Step 5: Arrive Early for Grand Entry and Key Events

The Grand Entry is the heartbeat of the pow wow. It begins with the entrance of the Eagle Staff, followed by the American and Native American flags, then veterans, then the dancers grouped by category: Traditional, Fancy, Jingle, Grass, and others. The procession is accompanied by powerful drumming and singing that moves many to tears.

Arrive at least 45 minutes before Grand Entry (1:00 PM) to secure a good viewing spot. The bleachers fill quickly. Front-row seats offer the best view of the dancers’ intricate footwork and regalia details. If you’re visiting for the first time, sit near the drum. The sound is immersive and grounding.

Other key moments to plan around:

• Saturday Morning: Children’s Dance – A beautiful display of young dancers learning tradition
• Saturday Afternoon: Intertribal Dance – Open to all attendees; you may be invited to join (see Step 6)
• Sunday Morning: Honor Songs – Songs dedicated to veterans, elders, and community members
• Sunday Evening: Arena Dances and Socials – The most inclusive and joyful time; everyone is welcome to dance

Step 6: Participate Respectfully in the Intertribal Dance

One of the most meaningful experiences at the Gathering of Nations is being invited to join the Intertribal Dance. This is a moment when dancers from all tribes come together, and the audience is often encouraged to join in. It’s a powerful gesture of unity.

To participate:

• Wait for the emcee to invite the audience to join
• Stand at the edge of the arena and observe the dance pattern
• Follow the rhythm—no need to mimic complex steps; simple steps forward and back are appropriate
• Do not wear regalia unless you are a recognized member of a tribe
• Wear comfortable, modest clothing; avoid hats or sunglasses
• Let go of self-consciousness. The goal is not perfection—it’s participation in community

If you’re unsure, ask a nearby dancer. Most are happy to guide newcomers. This is one of the few moments where cultural exchange happens organically—and it’s profoundly moving.

Step 7: Explore the Vendor Market with Intention

The Gathering of Nations features over 700 vendors offering everything from hand-beaded jewelry and hand drums to traditional foods, clothing, and art. This is not a typical craft fair—it’s a marketplace of cultural expression and economic resilience.

When shopping:

• Support Native-owned businesses. Look for signs that say “Native Owned” or ask the vendor their tribal affiliation.
• Ask about the craftsmanship. Many items are made using ancestral techniques passed down for generations.
• Be prepared to pay fair prices. Authentic regalia, beadwork, and drums are labor-intensive and reflect years of skill.
• Do not haggle. Many vendors are artists, not merchants. Their prices reflect the value of their heritage and labor.
• Consider purchasing a drumstick or small rattle as a souvenir—it’s a tangible connection to the sound that drives the pow wow.

Food vendors offer traditional Indigenous cuisine: frybread, Indian tacos (with venison or beef), blue corn mush, wild rice soup, and sage tea. Try the frybread with honey—it’s a simple, delicious taste of cultural continuity.

Step 8: Engage with Cultural Demonstrations and Workshops

Beyond dancing, the Gathering of Nations hosts daily workshops, storytelling circles, and craft demonstrations. These are often held in the Education Tent or under shaded pavilions.

Look for:

• Language revitalization sessions (e.g., Navajo, Zuni, or Lakota phrases)
• Regalia-making demonstrations (beadwork, quillwork, sewing)
• Traditional medicine workshops (herbalism, smudging protocols)
• Drum-making and singing circles
• Panel discussions on Indigenous rights, land sovereignty, and cultural preservation

These sessions are often led by elders and knowledge keepers. Sit quietly, listen deeply, and ask thoughtful questions afterward. Avoid interrupting or dominating conversations. This is where you gain the most profound understanding of the event’s purpose.

Step 9: Connect with the Community

One of the most overlooked aspects of attending the Gathering of Nations is building human connection. Indigenous communities are not monolithic—they are diverse, resilient, and deeply connected. Many attendees are traveling from remote reservations, often for the first time in years.

Ways to connect:

• Offer a quiet “thank you” to a dancer after their performance
• Join a social dance circle without expectation
• Volunteer at the information booth or clean-up crew (ask at the main desk)
• Attend the Sunrise Ceremony on Saturday morning (open to all)
• Leave a note of appreciation in the guestbook at the Information Center

These small acts of recognition create ripples of healing and mutual respect. You are not just a visitor—you are a guest in a sacred space.

Step 10: Reflect and Carry the Experience Forward

Leaving the Gathering of Nations is not the end—it’s the beginning of deeper understanding. Take time after the event to reflect:

• What songs or dances moved you the most? Why?
• Which vendor’s story resonated with you?
• How did the drumming make you feel in your body?

Share your experience responsibly. Avoid posting photos of dancers without permission. Instead, share the spirit of the event: “I witnessed the strength of Indigenous resilience this weekend.” Educate others about the difference between cultural appreciation and appropriation. Support Native-led organizations year-round. Consider donating to the Gathering of Nations Foundation, which funds youth scholarships and cultural preservation.

Carrying this experience forward is how you truly “catch” the Gathering of Nations—not by being there, but by becoming part of its ongoing story.

Best Practices

Practice Cultural Humility

Cultural humility is the ongoing practice of recognizing your own cultural limitations and approaching Indigenous traditions with openness, not assumption. Do not assume you understand the meaning behind a dance or song. Ask questions with sincerity, not curiosity for entertainment. Listen more than you speak.

Adopt a “Leave No Trace” Mindset

Respect the land and the space. Use recycling and compost bins provided throughout the venue. Avoid single-use plastics. Carry a reusable water bottle—hydration stations are available. Do not litter, even with biodegradable items like corn husks or napkins.

Dress Appropriately

Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. April in Albuquerque can be cool in the morning and warm by midday. Layer your clothing. Avoid wearing headdresses, feathers, or tribal patterns unless you are a member of that tribe. These are not costumes—they are sacred symbols. Opt for neutral colors and modest attire. Closed-toe shoes are recommended for standing and walking on concrete.

Bring Essentials

Prepare for a full day outdoors:

• Reusable water bottle
• Small backpack for personal items
• Sunscreen and hat
• Light jacket or shawl
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
• Small notebook and pen for reflections
• Cash (many vendors do not take cards)
• Power bank for your phone

Support Indigenous Youth

Many young dancers are participating for the first time. Their families have often saved for years to afford regalia. Offer quiet encouragement. A smile, a nod, or a whispered “Good job” can mean the world. Avoid taking photos of children without parental consent.

Respect the Drum

The drum is considered the heartbeat of the pow wow. It is not an instrument to be touched or played by outsiders. If you are near the drum circle, remain silent and still. Do not walk between the drummers and the dancers. The drummers are spiritual leaders—they carry the songs of their ancestors.

Understand the Difference Between Public and Sacred Moments

Not all dances are meant for public viewing. Some are reserved for specific clans, genders, or ceremonial purposes. If you’re unsure whether a dance is open, wait for the emcee to announce it. If it’s not announced, assume it’s private. Never ask to see “the real” or “secret” dances—those are not for outsiders.

Engage with Indigenous Media

Follow Indigenous journalists, podcasters, and filmmakers before and after the event. Channels like Indian Country Today, Native News Online, and First Nations Experience (FNX) provide context and depth. Watching documentaries like We Are Still Here or The Pow Wow can deepen your appreciation.

Plan for Emotional Impact

Many attendees are moved to tears by the power of the drum, the grace of the dancers, or the collective memory held in the arena. Allow yourself to feel. Crying is not weakness—it’s a sign of deep connection. If you feel overwhelmed, step outside quietly. There are designated quiet zones for reflection.

Tools and Resources

Official Website

gatheringofnations.com is your primary resource. It offers:

• Live schedules and event updates
• Vendor directory
• Map of the venue
• Volunteer opportunities
• Accessibility information
• Historical archives

Mobile Apps

While there is no official app, these tools enhance your experience:

• Google Maps – For navigation to the venue and nearby amenities
• Weather Underground – To monitor Albuquerque’s variable spring weather
• SoundCloud – Search for “Gathering of Nations drumming” to preview songs before attending

Books for Deeper Understanding

Read these before or after your visit:

• Our Beloved Kin: A New History of King Philip’s War by Lisa Brooks
• The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee: Native America from 1890 to the Present by David Treuer
• Indigenous Continent: A Concise History of Native America by Pekka Hämäläinen
• Walking the Trail: A Native American’s Journey Through the Pow Wow by Roberta Conner

Organizations to Support Year-Round

Continue your engagement beyond the event:

• National Indian Education Association (NIEA) – Supports Indigenous students
• Native American Rights Fund (NARF) – Legal advocacy for tribal sovereignty
• First Peoples Fund – Funds Indigenous artists and cultural projects
• Indigenous Environmental Network – Protects sacred lands and water

Audio and Video Resources

Immerse yourself in the sounds and stories:

• YouTube: “Gathering of Nations Grand Entry 2023” – Watch the full procession
• Spotify Playlist: “Pow Wow Drumming Traditions” – Curated by Native artists
• Podcast: “All My Relations” – Episodes on pow wow culture and identity

Accessibility Resources

The Gathering of Nations is committed to inclusion:

• Wheelchair-accessible seating and restrooms
• Sign language interpreters during Grand Entry and major announcements
• Quiet rooms for sensory-sensitive attendees
• Service animal accommodations

Contact the event organizers in advance if you have specific needs. They are responsive and respectful.

Real Examples

Example 1: Maria, a Navajo College Student from Arizona

Maria, 20, had never left her reservation. Her grandmother, a former pow wow queen, encouraged her to attend. Maria bought a weekend pass, stayed with a cousin in Albuquerque, and arrived early Saturday. She sat quietly during Grand Entry, tears streaming as she heard her own language sung in the drum circle. Afterward, she joined an intertribal dance and met a Lakota elder who taught her a new song. She bought a beaded bracelet from a Hopi artist and wrote in her journal: “I felt like I was coming home—even though I’d never been here before.” Maria now volunteers with her university’s Native student association, sharing her experience to encourage others.

Example 2: James, a Non-Native Teacher from Colorado

James, 42, taught Native American history but had never attended a pow wow. He bought tickets after reading an article in Indian Country Today. He arrived early, studied the etiquette guide, and asked permission before photographing a dancer. He sat in the Education Tent during a beadwork demo and spent 45 minutes listening to a Zuni woman explain how each color symbolizes a direction and element. He bought a small turquoise pendant and later used the experience to redesign his curriculum, replacing stereotypes with authentic voices. “I didn’t just see a dance,” he wrote. “I witnessed a living culture that refuses to be erased.”

Example 3: The Rivera Family, Multi-Tribal Attendees

The Rivera family—comprising members from Cherokee, Ojibwe, and Yaqui backgrounds—traveled from three different states to reunite at the Gathering. Their teenage daughter, who had never met her Yaqui relatives, danced in the Jingle category for the first time. Her grandfather, a veteran, carried the Eagle Staff in Grand Entry. Afterward, they shared a meal of frybread and stew under a pavilion, speaking in multiple languages. “This is where we remember who we are,” said the grandmother. “Not just as individuals—but as a people.”

Example 4: A First-Time Visitor from Germany

Anna, 28, a university student from Berlin, came to the U.S. to study Indigenous rights. She attended the Gathering with a journal and a list of questions. She didn’t dance, but she sat with elders during lunch and asked about language preservation. One elder gave her a small cedar bundle and said, “Carry this when you feel lost.” Anna later wrote a thesis on the role of pow wows in cultural resilience. She now leads educational tours to Indigenous sites in North America.

FAQs

Can non-Native people attend the Gathering of Nations?

Yes. The Gathering of Nations is open to the public. It is not a closed ceremony. However, visitors must attend with respect, humility, and a willingness to learn. This is not a tourist attraction—it is a cultural gathering.

Is photography allowed?

Photography is permitted in most areas, but never without asking permission first. Do not photograph dancers during sacred or private moments. Avoid flash. Always respect “No Photos” signs or verbal requests.

Can I wear Native-inspired clothing or headdresses?

No. Headdresses, feathered headbands, and tribal patterns are sacred and belong to specific nations. Wearing them as costumes is cultural appropriation and deeply offensive. Wear plain, respectful clothing.

Are there food options for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?

Yes. Many vendors offer vegan frybread, corn-based dishes, and bean stews. Ask vendors about ingredients. Some prepare food without meat or dairy. Bring your own snacks if you have severe allergies.

What if I don’t know how to dance?

No one expects you to. During the Intertribal Dance, you are welcome to stand and move gently. Many people simply stand and sway. The most important thing is to be present.

How long does the event last?

The Gathering of Nations runs Friday through Sunday. The main competitions are Saturday and Sunday. The arena opens at 9:00 AM each day, with Grand Entry at 1:00 PM. Events continue until 9:00 PM on Sunday.

Can I bring my pet?

No. Only service animals are permitted. This is for the safety and comfort of all attendees and dancers.

Is there Wi-Fi or cell service?

Cell service is spotty due to the large crowd. Wi-Fi is not provided. Plan ahead: download maps, schedules, and music offline.

What happens if it rains?

The Gathering of Nations is held indoors at the Albuquerque Convention Center. Rain does not affect the event. The arena is climate-controlled.

Can I volunteer?

Yes. Volunteers assist with registration, cleanup, and information. Apply through the official website. Volunteers receive a free weekend pass.

Is there a way to support the Gathering of Nations beyond attending?

Yes. Donate to the Gathering of Nations Foundation, share educational content, support Native artists year-round, and advocate for Indigenous rights in your community.

Conclusion

Catching the Gathering of Nations Pow Wow in Albuquerque is not about checking a box on a travel itinerary. It is about entering a sacred space where history breathes, where ancestors speak through drumbeats, and where identity is not preserved in museums but lived in every step, song, and stitch of regalia. To truly catch it means to arrive with an open heart, a quiet mind, and a willingness to listen more than you speak.

This guide has walked you through the practical steps—from securing tickets to understanding protocols—and emphasized the deeper values of respect, humility, and reciprocity. The pow wow is not a spectacle. It is a survival story. A testament. A celebration of resilience that has endured centuries of colonization, displacement, and erasure.

When you leave Albuquerque, you carry more than souvenirs. You carry a responsibility—to honor what you’ve witnessed, to educate others without appropriation, and to support Indigenous communities beyond the weekend. The Gathering of Nations does not end when the last drum fades. It lives on in how you choose to remember, act, and speak.

So go—not as a spectator, but as a guest. Not as a consumer, but as a witness. And when you return home, let the rhythm of the drum echo in your actions. That is how you truly catch the Gathering of Nations.