50th Annual Powwow & Cultural Celebration

St. Joseph’s Indian School
September 17–19, 2026 | Chamberlain, South Dakota

For 50 years, St. Joseph’s Indian School has welcomed families, alumni, students, and friends to gather in celebration of Native culture, community, and tradition. This September, we invite you to be part of a very special milestone as we celebrate the 50th Annual Powwow & Cultural Celebration.

This cherished tradition honors the rich cultural heritage of the Lakota people and brings generations together to celebrate through dance, music, storytelling, and fellowship. Whether you’re returning as an alumnus, visiting for the first time, or joining family and friends, Powwow Weekend offers meaningful opportunities to experience the spirit and traditions that continue to shape our community.

A Weekend of Celebration

The festivities begin on Thursday, September 17, with registration in the Recreation Center, followed by an open house at the Equine Therapy Center. Guests are also invited to participate in Circle of Culture: Alumni Teaching Traditions, where alumni share cultural knowledge, personal stories, and traditional skills in our newly expanded Recreation Center.

On Friday, visitors can enjoy a full day of cultural enrichment with activities throughout campus, including guided tours of St. Joseph’s Indian School, the Health Care Center, and the Aktá Lakota Museum. The day concludes with a cultural performance and an Alumni Thiyóšpaye (extended-family) Social, providing time to reconnect and celebrate together.

The celebration reaches its peak on Saturday as guests tour our student homes before gathering for the blessing of the powwow grounds. At noon, the Grand Entry begins, with dancers and drum groups filling the arena in a moving display of honor, tradition, and pride. The weekend concludes with evening Mass, the presentation of competition awards, and a community meal shared among friends and family.

Dance, Drum, and Tradition

Throughout the powwow, dancers will compete in three age divisions—Tiny Tots, Juniors, and Teens—in a variety of traditional categories, including Traditional Dance, Fancy Dance, Grass Dance, and Jingle Dress. Drum groups from across the Dakotas will also participate in spirited competition, with cash prizes awarded to registered dancers and drum groups.

Everyone Is Welcome

All Powwow activities take place on the campus of St. Joseph’s Indian School in Chamberlain, South Dakota. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early, register, and take time to explore the Aktá Lakota Museum, take part in campus tours, and experience the welcoming atmosphere that has made this celebration a treasured tradition for five decades.

As we celebrate our 50th Annual Powwow, we honor the generations who have preserved these traditions and look forward to sharing this weekend with new friends and returning families alike.

For a complete schedule of events, visit stjo.org or call 855-777-3433.