FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 30, 2025
Drumming & Dancing Highlight a Weekend of Traditions for the 29th Year
PENDLETON, Ore. (June 30, 2025) — Wildhorse Resort & Casino, owned and operated by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, today announced the details of the Wildhorse 29th Annual Pow Wow, taking place this weekend. Festivities begin on Friday, July 4, and continue through Sunday, July 6, on the Wildhorse Resort & Casino property.
The Pow Wow aspires to celebrate Indian country’s culture throughout the weekend, bringing familiar songs, dances, regalia, and community to Pendleton. Dancing and drumming competitions, featuring participants from across the western United States and Canada, highlight the festivities. Prize money is awarded in multiple categories based on gender, age, and dance style, with judges scoring competitors on technical mastery, rhythm, and the ability to end precisely on the final drumbeat.
Spectators are encouraged to attend, and admission is free. Vendors selling artisan products, jewelry and authentic Native American frybread will be on site all weekend.
Schedule of Events:
Friday, July 4
- 4 pm: Registration for dancers and drum groups opens
- 7 pm: Grand Entry
- Evening: Honoring Our Veterans special
Saturday, July 5
- 11 am: Registration opens
- 1 pm: Grand Entry
- Afternoon: Fancy Dance Special, Men vs. Women
- 5 pm: Break
- 7 pm: Pow Wow resumes
- Evening War Bonnet Special
Sunday, July 6
- 1 pm: Grand Entry
- Finals: contest results and prize presentations
Preceding the Pow Wow, a free stand-up comedy show by Homer Shadowheart, a Native American comedian, actor and musician from Cincinnati. A longtime performer with credits in two films, Shadowheart is known for his subtle humor and dedication to representing the Native American experience. The performance takes place Thursday, July 3, at 7 pm in the Wildhorse Sports Bar. Seating is limited. Attendees must be 21 or older.
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