2021 Wacipi

Wacipi—or powwow—is a traditional Native American gathering, a celebration of life, pride, and honor. Meaning “they all dance” in the Dakota language, today’s Wacipi brings together people from all over the country for three days of celebrating in a good way. It is a time for preserving a rich heritage, while reconnecting with old friends and making new friends.

Grand Entry sets the stage for each day’s contests and activities, which includes a ceremonious entrance into the dance arena, led by a Native American veteran color guard, visiting dignitaries, and tribal royalty, followed by hundreds of dancers of all ages. Representing dozens of tribes from across the United States and Canada, dancers dressed in traditional regalia compete for top honors in various dance style categories and age groups, while drum groups and singers surround the perimeter of the arena. Native American artists and crafters display traditional beadwork, jewelry, and handmade goods, while food vendors offer a variety of tasty, authentic meals and treats.

The SMSC’s Wacipi attracts thousands of visitors each year to honor the history of a strong group of people. We invite you to be a part of this celebration with us here at the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) for our annual Wacipi in Shakopee, Minnesota, over the weekend of August 20-22, 2021.

COVID-19

The SMSC’s first and highest priority is the health and safety of our members, employees, and guests. Help us prevent community spread of COVID-19 by adhering to the following health and safety protocols, as developed and overseen by SMSC Tribal Public Health:

• Visitors: Face coverings are strongly recommended, unless you are fully vaccinated. (Please note, face coverings are required on all shuttle buses.)
• Dancers and Wacipi Contracted Staff: Face coverings are required, unless proof of vaccination is provided.
• Invited Drum Groups: Face coverings are strongly recommended, unless proof of vaccination is provided.
• Please practice social distancing whenever possible. If social distancing cannot be easily maintained (such as in the dance arena), face coverings are strongly encouraged.
• All staff members are required to complete a daily health screening prior to reporting for work on-site.
• If you think you may be experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, please seek assistance from SMSC Tribal Public Health at the Mobile Unit.

Please be advised that SMSC Tribal Public Health is continuously monitoring the situation and will provide updated guidance as needed—please defer to all posted event signage and staff guidance upon arrival. If you have any questions, please seek assistance from SMSC Tribal Public Health at the Mobile Unit.