Denver March Powwow marks 50 years with expanded contests

The 50th annual Denver March Powwow will be held March 20-22 at the Denver Coliseum. The event began in the 1970s as a youth enrichment program and has grown into one of the early gatherings on the powwow trail. Last year, 31 drum groups and more than 1,200 dancers participated, according to powwow officials. An attendee survey found visitors came from 49 states and 25 countries, and total attendance topped 55,000. The organization’s Articles of Incorporation state its primary mission is to “preserve and protect the traditional performing arts of American Indian people.”

Special contests this year include Guardians of Tradition (15+), Northern vs. Southern Women Showcasing Traditional Outfits and Dance Styles, and a men’s grass (18+) contest, with prize amounts to be announced, according to event materials. A Special Honor Contest will recognize Grace “SwaHuux” Gillette as the 2025 Legends of Dance Award recipient, dedicated to former DMPW royalty. Additional contests include a Team Dance competition and Youth Enrichment (15-24). Arts and crafts vendor booth spaces are sold out with no waitlist, according to event materials.