UMD Powwow
About:
A powwow is a Native gathering, where those from various tribal backgrounds can celebrate their culture, life, and each other’s company. It is an exciting time that often includes dancing, drumming, contests, feasting, and other activities. Powwows serve as a way to keep traditions alive and educate the future generations, while also sharing Native culture with others. All attendees must be respectful and follow the rules, and everyone is welcome!
Contact powwow@umd.edu for questions, comments, or additional information.
UMD Powwow Hosts:
Save-the-Date:
Get Involved
How to get involved with the Powwow:
Vendor Application
Vendor application is closed.
Feb 16th, 2026: PW Committee Decision
Mar 6th, 2026: Vendor fee due
Non-Profit Booth Application
Please complete this form by February 27th, 2026 to be considered. You will receive a confirmation on March 1st, 2026.
Volunteer at the Powwow
Volunteer sign-ups will open on February 19th.
| Time | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 10:30am - 11:30am | Doors Open Vendors Open Demonstration Hour | |
| 11:30am - 12:00pm | Drum Roll Call | Dancers lineup for Grand Entry |
| 12:00pm-12:30pm | Grand Entry and Invocation | Grand Entry is when the dancers enter into the arena, please follow guidance provided by the Master of Ceremonies for when to stand and sit out of respect. Welcome remarks and introduction of special guests. |
| 12:30pm - 12:45pm | Intertribals, Spot Dances, Children's Candy Dance | |
| 12:45pm - 1:00pm | Women’s Exhibition, Round Dance | |
| 1:00pm - 1:15pm | Intertribals, Spot Dances, MMIR Special | |
| 1:15pm-1:30pm | Potato Dance, Men's Exhibition | |
| 1:30pm-1:45pm | Grass Dance Special, Intertribal, Round Dance | |
| 1:45pm-2:00pm | Intermission Performance | |
| 2:00pm-2:15pm | Intertribal, Round Dance, Spot Dance | |
| 2:15pm-2:30pm | Intertribal, Sweetheart Special | |
| 2:30pm-2:45pm | Retire Colors, last round dance, Committee Honor Song | This signifies the closing of the powwow. |
| 2:45pm-3:00pm | Closing prayer, Powwow ends, Clean-up begins | Thank you for coming and travel safely! |
Please plan for plenty of extra time due to campus construction.
UMD Parking Webpage Link:
Free Parking:
Lots J1 (Behind The Hotel)- 5-8 minute walk
J2 (Behind Ritchie) - 1-2 minute walk
L (Around Reckord Armory) - 5-8 minute walk
C1 (Visitor Center) - 3-5 minute walk
S9 (Near Thurgood Marshall Hall) - (5-8 min walk)
Pay-to-Park Location:
Regents Drive Garage ($15/day) 10-15 minute walk to Ritchie.
Accessible Parking:
Accessible parking is limited and there are some handicap parking spaces outside of Ritchie Coliseum, Visitors Center, and Thurgood Marshall Hall.
Parking Map Key:
Green color spaces: Free Parking on Weekends
Yellow Color Lines: Construction
Red Areas: Permit Required
