Native American Powwows Photo Gallery

Native American Powwows :: Men's Fancy Dance Regalia

Photo Credit: Derek Mathews - Gathering of Nations Powwow

What are Native American Powwows?

Native American powwows are events that celebrate the heritage and traditions of Native American people. They are a way for Native Americans to connect with each other and keep their culture alive through music, dance and storytelling. Most powwows are open to the public, and provide opportunities to educate non-natives about Native American culture and traditions. They usually occur during the summer months from Memorial Day to Labor Day in the United States and Canada. Native American powwows are important to Native American life and are a lot of fun for all who attend. To see a list of powwows, see our Native American Powwows Calendar.

Men's Fancy Dance

The Men's Fancy Dance (also referred to as Feather Dance) competition is usually considered the most spectacular of the men's powwow 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 Outfits

Fancy Dance outfits worn by Native American at powwows are brightly colored, with fringes, ribbons or other items that move continuously to the movements of the dancer. The outfit includes a dance apron and headband with intricate beadwork, and two colorful feather bustles worn in back. Half leggings made from Angora goat or Icelandic sheep are worn at the calf and usually topped with sheep bells, and moccasins are also worn. Accessories include a porcupine roach with two feathers attached to rockers that move to the beat, and two arm bustles made from brightly colored feathers are also often worn in the Fancy Dance.

Your Source for Native American Powwows Craft Supplies

Crazy Crow Trading Post has long been your number one source for Native American craft supplies for your powwows regalia and other needs. This photo gallery represents men's feather dance outfits, both Northern and Southern Plains, mostly taken at Gathering of Nations Powwow 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 - Craft Supplies for Native American Powwows Dance Clothes & Accessories!