Black Hills State University is hosting its annual Lakota Omniciye Wacipi this weekend.
The university’s Center for American Indian Studies hosts the powwow each year during American Indian Awareness Week.
Organizers say it’s the biggest cultural event in Spearfish. It features Indigenous dancers, singers, and drummers from across the state.
“The Wacipi is a time for our people to come together. It’s a time of socializing, meeting relatives you haven't seen in a long time, dancing, and just having fun,” said Dr. Rosie Sprauge, an instructor at the Center for American Indian Studies.
This year's Wacipi theme is the influence of past and present Indigenous leaders. It will focus on leadership with past alumni and upcoming graduates.
It takes place Saturday at noon Mountain Time in the Donald E. Young Center. Admission is $8 for the general public and free for BHSU faculty, staff and students.
More details about the Wacipi, including information about other events happening this week, are available on the university's website.