Oregon is home to nine federally recognized tribes, each of which have their own distinct cultures and traditions dating back to time immemorial. Today, tribal businesses and events, from agriculture to gaming to rodeos, draw people to rural communities in Oregon. They boost local economies and fund tribal programs for education and cultural preservation. Many of these events are open to the public, as tribal communities are eager to share their stories of the past, present and future, and welcome you to their homeland. Before you visit, here are a few tips to visit respectfully.
- Tribal events open to the public are clearly marked as such; please assume all other gatherings are private.
- Refrain from picking up or removing artifacts or disturbing burial or sacred sites.
- If you are invited to attend a ceremony, adhere to your host’s guidance. Don’t bring weapons, drugs or alcohol to tribal lands.
- Ask permission before taking photos of persons or events.
May the connections you make enrich your experiences in Oregon Indian Country. Check the websites for dates and other details and for more inspiration, order a free copy of the Travel Guide to Oregon Indian Country.
January
Peace Hike, Yachats: In remembrance of their ancestors forced off their homelands, members of the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians hike Amanda’s Trail. All are welcome to join this commemoration of healing.
February
Lincoln’s Birthday Celebration Powwow, Simnasho
Drumming, dancing, singing and traditional regalia highlight this small midwinter powwow at the Simnasho Longhouse on the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs Reservation.
March
Wildhorse Anniversary Fireworks, Umatilla Indian Reservation
Wildhorse Resort & Casino celebrates its anniversary each March with the region’s grandest pyrotechnics show. Impressive air and ground displays highlight this free event at the resort 6 miles east of Pendleton.
April
Root Feast, Umatilla Indian Reservation
The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation hosts a feast of traditional springtime first foods like pyaxi (bitterroot) and xaws (cous) at the Umatilla Longhouse.
June
Delta Park Powwow and Encampment, Portland
An annual tradition for more than 50 years, Native and non-Native participants and spectators from the Pacific Northwest gather for a weekend of intertribal dancing, cultural exhibitions, and art, craft and food vendors.
Pi-Ume-Sha Celebration Weekend, Warm Springs
Celebrating the 1855 signing of its treaty, the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs host a parade, rodeo, fun run, powwow and more at their Pi-Ume-Sha graounds near the Community Center.
July
Cow Creek Umpqua Tribal Powwow, Tiller
The tribe welcomes drummers, dancers, singers and traditional craftspeople to its annual gathering at the South Umpqua Falls Campground in the Umpqua National Forest. Dry camping (no water or electricity) available.
Marcellus Norwest Memorial Veterans Powwow, Willamina
The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Indians honor tribal and nontribal military veterans and help connect them with assistance programs. A Veterans Royalty Pageant kicks off the event at the Uyxat Powwow Grounds.
Tribal Canoe Journey, location varies
Coastal tribes from Oregon, Washington, British Columbia and Alaska come together to share their canoe culture, traveling the Pacific in large traditional oceangoing canoes. The route changes each year.
Wildhorse Pow Wow, Umatilla Indian Reservation
This Fourth of July weekend event brings together dancers, musicians and artisans from around North America. A highlight are the contests of various dance styles — including jingle, grass and chicken — performed in colorful regalia.
Tamkaliks Celebration, Wallowa
The three-day event at the Wallowa Homeland Project celebrates the continuing presence of the Nez Perce in their ancestral Wallowa country. Activities include a friendship feast, a horse procession, and singing, dancing and drumming competitions.
August
Nesika Illahee Pow-Wow, Siletz
In the heart of the Siletz Reservation, Government Hill comes alive with dancing, drumming and singing the second week of August. Performers and vendors represent many facets of Indigenous arts, crafts and cuisine.
Burns Paiute Powwow and Lacrosse Tournament, Burns
Lacrosse — a modern interpretation of a centuries-old Native American game — joins other Native traditions at the Harney County Fairgrounds. The weekend also includes dance competitions, drumming contests and a community dinner.
Grand Ronde Contest Powwow, Willamina
Native dancers in full regalia compete for prize money in one of the largest powwows in the Pacific Northwest. A shuttle is available from the Spirit Mountain Casino to the Uyxat Powwow Grounds.
Klamath Tribes Restoration Celebration, Chiloquin
A three-day celebration marks the restoration of federal recognition and tribal rights of the Klamath, Modoc and Yahooskin people. Events include a rodeo, parade, fun run and competition powwow.
September
Epson Tour/Wildhorse Ladies Golf Classic, Umatilla Indian Reservation
Top professional women golfers from around the world tee off at the Wildhorse Golf Course in this qualifying tournament on the Ladies Professional Golf Association tour.
Mill-Luck Salmon Celebration, North Bend
Celebrating its coastal culture, the Coquille Indian Tribe hosts a traditional salmon bake on the Coos Bay waterfront at the Mill Casino Hotel & RV Park, along with canoe races, crafts and demonstrations.
November
Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians Restoration Powwow, Lincoln City
The tribes celebrate the restoration of federal recognition and tribal rights with this indoor powwow at the Chinook Winds Casino Resort. Highlights include a grant entry, dancing and Native vendors.
