Press Releases

University of North Dakota’s official press release archive.

UND to host 51st Time Out Wacipi Powwow

Annual two-day celebration will be held Friday and Saturday at Hyslop Sports Center

The University community is invited to join Student Diversity & Inclusion and the Office of Diversity & Inclusion for UND’s Annual Time Out Wacipi Powwow on April 21 and 22 at the Hyslop Sports Center. Admission is free and open to all.

A Wacipi (powwow) is a celebration of life featuring dancing and singing, highlighting cultural traditions, values, and contributions that Indigenous people bring to our community and the region. Traditionally at the UND Wacipi, graduating Indigenous students are recognized for their academic achievements with an honor song. Honoring will occur throughout both days of the powwow.

Sponsors for this year’s event are UND Student Diversity & Inclusion, the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians and the UND Alumni Association & Foundation.

More information about this year’s powwow, as well as history of the Time Out Wacipi Powow, is available on the event’s website.

A lineup of events for Time Out Week, hosted by a variety of UND departments April 17-21, are listed on the 2023 flyer as well as in the UND Events Calendar. Of note this year, the University’s Indians into Medicine program is celebrating its 50th anniversary this week, including a graduate recognition ceremony on Thursday, April 21, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the School of Medicine & Health Sciences.

Schedule

Friday, April 21

  • 7 p.m. – Grand Entry

Saturday, April 22

  • 1 p.m. – Grand Entry
  • 7 p.m. – Grand Entry

About the powwow

What is a Grand Entry?

The Grand Entry is the procession of the participants into the dancing area, led by military veterans and honored guests, followed by dancers dressed in their regalia.

What is regalia?

The dancers’ outfits are called regalia. Depending on tribal affiliation, dance category and personal preference, the design and accessories in the individual’s regalia can vary.

What are the dance categories?

Divided into groups according to age, there are six basic dance categories. The men’s categories include Traditional, Grass and Fancy. The women’s categories include Traditional, Jingle Dress and Fancy Shawl.

Is there anything I shouldn’t do?

  • Please ask permission prior to photographing or touching individuals and their regalia.
  • The drum is considered sacred and is designated for specific drum group members. Please do not touch the drums.
  • If you are able, please stand during times of prayer, Grand Entry, flag/honor songs and Posting of the Colors.