KU Powwow & Indigenous Cultures Festival

Allison Levering | April 18, 2025 | Events – POWWOWS

The University of Kansas hosted their annual powwow and Indigenous cultures festival on Saturday, April 12. Attendees gathered around the Lied Center, where spectators enjoyed intertribal and contest dancing from all age groups. The festival kicked off with a tipi raising, followed by an educational opportunity for those attending the powwow to learn about the cultural significance of the event itself.

Attendees gather to learn about Powwow etiquette.

Led by powwow coordinator Jancita Warrington (Menominee, Potawatomi, and Ho-chunk) Powwow 101 informed and educated the public about what a powwow is. Attendees gathered in the lied center to learn about the cultural significance of powwow, the history, as well as the traditions and protocols to be aware of.

Jancita Warrington poses after her presentation on Powwow 101.

Haskell Color Guard member and student Coleman Josh led the dancers into the arena during the evening grand entry. Haskell’s champion competitive dancers Preston Olney, Courtney Spottedwolf and Mu Roberts all took first place in their respective categories.

Dancers Showcase

Photography by: Austin Schimmel

Fancy shawler tells her story.
Britany Pelkey jams out to host drum Bad War Cloud.
Arianna Long dances in grace and beauty for the people.
A Jingle dress dancer.
Women’s Golden Age honors the elder lady dancers.
Men’s Fancy showcases athletic ability and rhythm.
The crowd goes wild!
Intertribal dancing
Color guard warriors bring in the colors.
Honoring the veterans and active duty members.
Cover photo: Haskell Ladies, Former Miss Haskell AJ Holder, and Miss Haskell Kansas Clifford Braveboy set up the KU tipi.