Schiller Woods East · Chicago
FROM THE AIC ARCHIVES
One of the American Indian Center’s early powwows in Chicago.
Chicago is an intertribal city. Native people from nations across Indian Country live and work here, raise families here and take part in the life of the city. The Chicago Powwow reflects that community.
The American Indian Center was founded in 1953, when federal relocation policies were bringing thousands more Native people to Chicago. AIC provided a place for people from different nations to meet, organize and maintain connections to their cultures and communities. The annual powwow became part of that work and is now in its 73rd year.
The Chicago Powwow has continued for more than seven decades because people keep showing up to make it happen. Dancers, singers, families, elders, youth, volunteers and vendors each have a part in the day.
The Chicago Powwow is built around participation.
Grand Entries, intertribal dancing, invited drums and dance specials shape the day. Our specials recognize dancers, but competition does not define the powwow. Native people across nations and generations come to dance, sing, visit and spend the day together. The public is welcome to join us.
Gates open at 10 a.m. The first Grand Entry begins at 11 a.m. Session Two begins with Grand Entry at 3 p.m.
Ages 5 and under
Ages 6–12 • All styles compete together
Ages 13–17 • All styles compete together
Couples special
Ages 18+ • All styles compete together
Ages 18+ • All styles compete together
Grass + Woodland • Sponsored by the Pamonicutt family
PAYOUTS LISTED 1ST / 2ND / 3RD
SPOT DANCES + INTERTRIBAL DANCING THROUGHOUT THE DAY
Advance dancer registration is required and closes Wednesday, Sept. 30. There will be no on-site dancer registration.
THE FIRST 73
The first 73 registered dancers who complete check-in on powwow day will receive an honorarium.
TO RECEIVE AN HONORARIUM
Check in by 10:30 a.m. and participate in both Grand Entries.
Everything dancers need to know before powwow day is included in the preregistration form.
69th Annual Chicago Powwow, 2022
All ages are welcome. Advance tickets save $5 on adult admission and help move the gate line faster.
Ages 18+
Ages 6–17
Two adults + up to four youth. All guests must enter together.
Save $5 per adult or $10 on a family pass.
Powwow admission helps support the American Indian Center’s year-round cultural, education and community programs.
Ages 18+
Ages 6–17
Two adults + up to four youth. All guests must enter together.
Ages 55+
Ages 5 and under
Proof of age or veteran status may be requested for discounted or free gate admission.
Native artists, makers and businesses may apply to vend at the 73rd Annual Chicago Powwow. Space is limited, and submitting an application does not guarantee placement.
Application details and vendor guidelines are included in the form.
Schiller Woods-East sits along Irving Park Road, just west of Cumberland Avenue. Follow powwow signs to Grove 13.
W. Irving Park Road, west of N. Cumberland Avenue
Chicago, IL 60634
Enter from Irving Park Road, west of Cumberland Avenue. Follow powwow signs to Grove 13. Parking is free.
Take the #80 Irving Park bus west to Irving Park/Cumberland. Grove 13 is about a 10-minute walk west. The #80 connects with the Blue and Brown lines at Irving Park.
Bring a lawn chair or blanket and plan to spend the day. Restrooms are available on-site. Native vendors, Indian tacos and fry bread will be available throughout the day.
One admission covers both sessions, and re-entry is permitted.
Most vendors accept cash or major credit cards. The AIC food booth accepts both.
Outside food and coolers are not permitted.
We love pets, but please leave them at home. Service animals are welcome.
Check this page and AIC’s Facebook page for weather updates.
Join us for an evening of Native food, art, music and movement—and help carry the work of rematriation forward.