American Indian Pow Wow Photo Gallery

Native American Indian Pow Wow :: Men's Fancy Dance Regalia

Photo Credit: Derek Mathews - Gathering of Nations Powwow

What is an American Indian Pow Wow?

An American Indian pow wow is an event that celebrates the heritage and traditions of American Indian people. It is a way for them to connect with each other and keep their culture alive through music, dance and storytelling. Most pow wows are open to the public, and provide opportunities to educate non-natives about American Indian culture and traditions. American Indian pow wows usually occur during the summer months from Memorial Day to Labor Day in the United States and Canada. They are important to American Indian life and are a lot of fun for all who attend. To see a list of pow wow events, see our American Indian Pow Wow Calendar.

Men's Fancy Dance

The Men's Fancy dance (also referred to as Feather Dance) competition is considered the most spectacular of the men's pow wow dances. It is usually performed by younger, athletic dancers due to the strength and stamina required. Feather dance contest songs are generally short, with a very fast tempo. While all contest dancers need to know the songs to stop firmly on that last beat, it's particularly important for a feather dancer as 'nailing' the end of a very fast song is almost impossible without knowing the song.

Men's Fancy Dance Regalia

American Indian Fancy Dance regalia are made of bright colors with colorful fringes, ribbons or other items that flow with the movements of the dancer. Most dancers wear two colorful feather bustles in back, a dance apron and headband with elaborate beadwork, half leggings made from Angora goat or Icelandic sheep and topped by sheep bells, and moccasins. A porcupine roach is often worn on the head, with two feathers that stay in constant motion to the beat, and two arm bustles with brightly colored feathers are often worn.

Your Source For American Indian Pow Wow Craft Supplies

Crazy Crow Trading Post has long been your number one source for American Indian craft supplies for your Pow Wow regalia and other needs. This photo gallery represents men's feather dance regalia, both Northern and Southern Plains, mostly taken at Gathering of Nations Pow Wows in Albuquerque, New Mexico. We thank Derek Matthews of Gathering of Nations, and others who have given permission to present these photos in this gallery.

Crazy Crow Trading Post - Crafts Supplies for American Indian Pow Wow Dance Clothes & Accessories!