The Central Wisconsin Indigenous Peoples’ Day Pow Wow & Native American Art Market returns to the Wausau area this weekend. The event is hosted by the Central Wisconsin Indigenous Peoples’ Day Committee (CWIPDC), an Indigenous-led non-profit organization. CWIPDC formed in 2019 to organize this annual pow wow in celebration of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, which is the second Monday of October.
“As we celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day, may we also reflect on the unique contributions, histories, traditions, way of life and continued existence of Indigenous communities in our state and country and recommit to learning from the past to ensure a better future. We’re still here. We invite the greater community to join us in celebration this weekend, enjoy the beautiful dancing and powerful music, and support the Indigenous artisans,” said CWIPDC founding director and Ho-Chunk tribal member Tricia Zunker.
The event is at the Central Wisconsin Convention and Expo Center, 10101 Market Street, in Rothschild on Saturday, October 12 and Sunday, October 13. The Art Market opens at 10 a.m. both days. Grand Entry is at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday, October 12 and at 1 p.m. on Sunday, October 13. ASL interpreting services will be available for the Saturday 1 p.m. session.
A traditional feast is offered free to attendees at 5 p.m. on Saturday, October 12. In addition to music and dancing, there will be nearly 50 craft, food and informational vendors. Admission is free and it is open to the public.
Sponsors for this event include: Ho-Chunk Nation (gold sponsor); Oneida Nation of Wisconsin (bronze sponsor); Ho-Chunk Gaming-Wittenberg (bronze sponsor); Democratic Party of Wisconsin (bronze sponsor); Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians; Cloverbelt Credit Union; Kathleen Rulka and Brian Ewert; Wausau Pilot & Review; and the Wausau/Central Wisconsin Convention & Visitors Bureau.
