San Manuel Pow Wow

San Manuel Pow Wow is a three-day celebration free to the public and features Southern California traditional bird singers and dancers, as well as North American and Canadian dancers and drum singing groups. In addition, there is also vending from artisans representing Indian tribal nations from all across North America and Canada.

Since its beginning in 1996, the San Manuel Pow Wow has remained a celebration of Indigenous cultures and a symbol or Indigenous resiliency–open to all in the spirit of friendship.

During the three-day event, the Pow Wow is a sacred space where people from across Indian Country can share their traditions, spirituality and individual style through sounds, motion and art. Native American dishes–such as crowd-favorite foods like fry bread–as well as a diverse array of authentic Native American traditional crafts and fine art will be available for purchase from vendors.

San Manuel is proud to present more than $250,000 in cash prizes, which will be awarded to contestants competing in the Native American dancing and singing competitions.

They look forward to hosting their Native American relatives: dancers, drum groups, vendors, spectators, and honored quests to celebrate the very best of Indian Country.

2023 POW WOW –  Contestant Photography

2023 San Manuel Pow Wow Contestants request your photos here.

2024 POW WOW  – Tentative Schedule

• Friday
  • 5pm – Blessing Of The Grounds
  • 6pm – Bird Singing And Dancing
  • 8pm – Grand Entry
  • Midnight – Retreat Colors
• Saturday
  • 11am – Gourd Dancing
  • Noon – Bird Singing And Dancing
  • 1pm – Grand Entry
  • 6pm – Bird Singing And Dancing
  • 8pm – Grand Entry
  • Midnight – Retreat Colors
• Sunday
  • 11am – Gourd Dancing
  • Noon – Bird Singing And Dancing
  • 1pm – Grand Entry
  • 6pm – Announce Winners | Retreat Colors​​​

VENDORS

With respect to Indian culture, Native American artists only. Vendor booths are 10’x10’. All vendors need fire extinguishers. Availability is limited and no walk-up vendors, please. For more information: powwowsanmanuelvendor@gmail.com

Camping available on a first-come, first-serve basis. No hook ups available; all campers must be self-contained. Showers available; please check in at the Cal State information booth. Canopies must be down following the dinner break. No canopies on Friday night! **ABSOLUTELY NO CAMPFIRES**

Please refer to the animal policy listed on Cal State’s website: www.csusb.edu/policies. All visitors are expected to comply with the university’s policies at all times.