Gathering Of Nations

The Gathering of Nations is held during the last weekend in April and is one of the largest pow-wows in North America. It takes place at the Pow Wow Grounds at Expo NM/Tingley Coliseum and is also considered one of the most popular Native American events in the United States.

Every year, tens of thousands of people from over 750 tribes across North America come to the three-day festival to see thousands of traditional Native American dancers and singers compete for prizes and to participate in other events. It’s a transformative event for all parties involved and one that must be experienced to be truly appreciated.

The History of the Gathering of Nations

This event unofficially began in 1983 at the University of Albuquerque in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The following year, the event adopted the name Gathering of Nations Powwow and was held at the New Mexico Fair Grounds in the Horse Arena for two years.

However, this venue proved too small for the event, which was growing each year. Consequently, it was moved temporarily to the University of New Mexico Basketball Arena.

In 2017, the event returned to the New Mexico State Fair Grounds and was housed at the newly constructed Pow Wow Grounds — including Tingley Coliseum.

Observing the Gathering of Nations

One of the main events during the Gathering of Nations is Stage 49. This features traditional and contemporary artists in rock, blues, country, hip hop, and a variety of other genres. It also includes traditional roving performance groups from across the Pow Wow Grounds.

There is also a traders’ market that offers the best in Native American crafts, jewelry, art, fine clothing, foods, and much more. Just about anything a person could want can be found at this market, including health and wellness vendors. People can spread the word about this event using the hashtags #GatheringOfNations or #PowWow on social media.

When is it?
This year (2024)
April 25 Thursday
Next year (2025)
April 24 Thursday
Last year (2023)
April 27 Thursday
Topic
Culture & History