2020 Wacipi
After careful consideration and out of an abundance of caution, the SMSC has made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 Wacipi, which was originally scheduled to take place August 14-16. This annual celebration is such an important event for our community and the thousands of people who attend each year, but the health and safety of all members, participants, employees, and visitors will always take precedence, and we cannot safely move forward as planned in the midst of the current pandemic. Thank you in advance for your understanding and we look forward to seeing everyone in 2021.
Wacipi means “they all dance” in the Dakota language. Dance has always been an important part of our ancestors’ ceremonial practices.
The Wacipi, or powwow, is a celebration of life. Native Americans gather for a cultural and social celebration of dancing, singing and visiting. This is a time when Native Americans gather to meet old friends, make new ones, and honor those who have come before them. A time to gather, share, reflect and thank the Creator.
It was originally a gathering time held at the end of a season to celebrate a good hunt or recognize a positive event. There, Indian people would dance to entertain, but the dancing was originally a part of ceremonial practices and used to tell tribal stories.
While we are disappointed to cancel the 2020 Wacipi, the health and safety of all members, participants, employees, and visitors will always take precedence. We look forward to welcoming you to the 2021 Wacipi!