The annual Family Reunion Festival of Citizen Potawatomi Nation is a celebration of Native culture for the Potawatomi. Festival is for CPN members and their immediate households (spouses and those dependents living in the home of the Tribal member).
Activities include Grand Entry, cultural classes, a dance contest, and General Council. Tribal elections are decided during the Family Reunion Festival. Find the 2025 Festival Guide here.
Powwow and Grand Entry
Proper attire honors the sacred space of the dance arena, ancestors, tradition, and fellow Tribal members, and it is mandatory for entering the arena.
Women should keep their legs and shoulders covered by wearing ankle-length skirts and a shirt that conceals the shoulders as well as carry a shawl. Men should wear slacks and a ribbon shirt. Everyone should wear close-toed shoes and move clockwise around the arena. Flip flops, tank tops and shorts are not permitted in the arena. Those not following the dress code will be asked by Arena Directors to remain in the stands.
Watch a short video about powwow etiquette here.
The powwow consists of group, social and competitive dances. Everyone who meets the clothing requirements can participate in Grand Entry. Competition dances include men’s traditional, women’s traditional, jingle dance and more. Learn more about powwow dances here.
Spectators should remain past the outer edge of the dance arena in the walkway and stands, respecting boundaries of the drum circle, dancers, and others. Respect the seating dancers have marked with blankets or other pieces of cloth and often their regalia. Respect all dancers’ regalia and personal space. Do not touch regalia without permission.
Cell phones are allowed in the arena; however, do not photograph or video any dancers without their permission, especially as they prepare for competition. Spectators should remain in the stands to take photos. Listen carefully to the emcee for times to put away all electronic devices.
Dogs are not allowed in the dance arena as it is a sacred space.
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