Texas Indian Hobbyist Association POWWOW

Don't be afraid to make new friends and have fun. shake hands with all of the people you meet. Get to know them on a first name basis.

The benches are here only for the dancers. To reserve a bench a dancer places a blanket we he wishes to sit. If you reserve a set, use it. Do not reserve seats that you will not use.

Be dressed and ready when the call goes out for Grand Entry
Stand for the Grand Entry, opening prayers, flag song, memorial songs and honor songs.

Do not begin dancing a set until the head dancer starts the set. Follow their lead throughout the Powwow.

Never sit at the drum unless you have been invited by the head singer to do so. Never set up a drum without asking the paid drums first and the Powwow Chairman.
If you wish to make a gift to the drum, give your gift to the head singer and shake his hand, He will see to it that it is distributed to the other singers. Any dancer or visitor can make such a gift.

During the Powwow, the MC will be making announcements that need to be heard by all dancers and visitors. Please be as quiet as possible during any and all announcements.

Tipi's in the camping area are not there as decoration. They are the home away from home for the people using them. Please ask permission before entering any lodge.

Women need to wear a shawl when entering the dance arena. If you do not have one, borrow one.

Guests may join in during the round dance or other times that the MC directs. They also may enter the arena during give-away's.

During specials, do not shake the hand of the honoree before getting inline behind them to show your support. Get inline first and then shake their hand and pay for your right to dance at the end of the special.

While dancing in the arena, always wear your complete outfit. If you are not in a complete outfit, long pants or skirt and dress type shirt are preferred. Men do not wear your hat while in the arena. Short pants, halter tops and muscle shirts are never acceptable.