Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum’s 24th annual Pow Wow
The Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum’s 24th annual Pow Wow drew more than 2,000 guests and over 250 participants this year, making the event one of New England’s largest Indigenous celebrations.
“Pow Wows are Native gatherings to celebrate Indigenous communities,” said Executive Director Andrew Bullock. “These family-friendly events include traditional dance, music, arts, and storytelling. They’re a chance for participants to renew acquaintances, make new friendships, and share culture with the public.”
The 2025 Pow Wow opened with a Grand Entry, followed by Flag and Veterans Songs, and featured specialty dances such as the Jingle Dance, Fancy Dance, Traditional Dance, and Fancy Shawl Dance. The MC guided attendees through the significance of each song and protocol, while vendors displayed pottery, beadwork, basketry, books, and jewelry.
Bullock emphasized the event’s cultural importance. “Traditional skills aren’t taught formally. Rather, youth learn by participating, emulating elders, and listening to storytellers,” he explained. “Pow Wows enable Native people to educate the public, share their views on environmental issues, history, and spiritual practices, and continue vital oral traditions.”
This year’s event included the participation of the Native American Women Warriors Association, who assisted with flag raising and led a panel discussion on supporting Native women in service. “Military veterans are important within the Native community,” Bullock noted. “We were honored to welcome members of this organization and highlight their work.”
The annual Pow Wow has grown over the years, reflecting the museum’s evolving reach. “Our first few Pow Wows had just a handful of participants and about one hundred spectators,” Bullock said. “Now, our Pow Wows now attract 200 to 250 participants from throughout the northeast, and we attract thousands of visitors each year. We also have a very active group of more than 50 volunteers.”
Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum is open seven days a week through Saturday, November 1, with galleries featuring collections from across North America. This summer, visitors can explore the new exhibit, “The Sights and Sounds of Pow Wow,” which showcases contemporary Native regalia, drums, and music. Special events include live demonstrations and the Harvest Moon celebration on Sunday, September 28, featuring traditional foods, arts, and games.
“There are no Federal Indian reservations in the state,” Bullock said. “Without a land-base or state recognition, Pow Wows like ours provide a vital gathering space for Native people to dance, share ideas, and educate the public. We look forward to welcoming everyone to experience these traditions.”
Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum is dedicated to connecting people of all backgrounds with Native American history, culture, and art in Warner, NH. For more information on upcoming events, visit indianmuseum.org.
Member institutions on The Trail are located in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, Merrimack Valley, and Seacoast.