Native American Indian Pow Wows Photo Gallery

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

Photo Credit: Derek Mathews - Gathering of Nations Powwow

What are Native American Indian Pow Wows?

Native American Indian pow wows are events that celebrate the heritage and traditions of Native American Indians. They are a way for them to connect with each other and keep their culture alive through music, dancing and storytelling. Most pow wows are open to the public, and they provide opportunities to educate non-natives about Native American Indian culture and customs. Most Native American Indian pow wows occur during the summer months from Memorial Day to Labor Day in the United States and Canada. They are important to Native American Indian life and are a lot of fun to attend. To see a list of pow wow events, see our Native American Indian Pow Wows 2010 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 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 Outfits

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

Your Source For Native American Indian Pow Wows Supplies

Crazy Crow Trading Post has long been your number one source for Native American Indian craft supplies for your Pow Wow regalia and other needs. This photo gallery represents men's feather dance outfits, 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 Native American Indian Pow Wows Dance Clothes & Accessories!