1. Respect the Sacred Circle

The dance arena is considered sacred ground. Do not enter unless invited or participating in a dance. Always walk around the circle, not through it.

​

2. Listen to the Master of Ceremonies (MC)

The MC guides the flow of the celebration. Pay attention to announcements, especially regarding when to have a moment of silence and when to dance.

​

3. Dress and Act Appropriately

Modest and respectful attire is expected. Avoid profanity, disruptive behavior, alcohol, or drugs.

 

4. No Alcohol, Drugs, or Firearms

These are strictly prohibited at all Indigenous Celebration grounds. The space is meant to be safe, family-friendly, and spiritually clean.

 

5. Respect the Dancers, Speakers, and Regalia

Regalia is the term used to describe traditional dance attire. Please do not touch a dancer’s regalia, and never refer to it as a “costume.”

​

It is not uncommon for Regalia, or parts of it, to be family heirlooms, and each outfit is created by the dancer or by a respected family member or friend. The feathers are particularly sacred and highly valued and cared for. Sometimes years have gone into the completion of a dancer’s regalia, so please be respectful.

​

Performance grounds should be considered sacred places. A blessing is performed ahead of time, and your actions should show respect for this religious and sacred ceremony.

​

“It’s like going to a church. If you’re going to a pow wow or Indigenous Celebration, you need to honor where the dances came from, the traditions and story behind them.” The blessing that takes place beforehand sets the tone of the event and sanctifies the area. Although the blessing is usually not open to the public, its spiritual nature should be taken seriously.

​

6. Photography and Recording

If you want to take pictures of the dancers or an indigenous person in regalia (traditional dress), check with the person you are taking a picture of and ask their permission. Please note: Both Jim Mayhew our flutist and the Preston’s have permitted photography during their musical, dancing, and education sessions.

​

7. Honor Songs and Flag Songs

Stand quietly during these songs. Remove hats and refrain from talking or moving around. These moments are deeply meaningful and often honor veterans, elders, or ancestors.

​

8. Seating

Seating is often provided. You can bring your own chairs. Do not sit on a seat where someone has left a blanket.

 

9. Participation

Some dances are open to the public—these will be announced. If invited to dance, accept with humility and respect. Follow the lead of experienced dancers.

 

10. Support the Event if Able

Support through donations at the Indigenous Causes booth, raffle participation, or purchases from vendors. All support is appreciated.

​

11. Cleanliness and Courtesy

Respect the grounds. Dispose of trash properly and help maintain a welcoming environment for all. The Native culture respects Mother Earth, so please try to avoid littering.

​

12. Eagle Feathers

Eagle feathers are sacred within the American Indian/ Indigenous culture. Each eagle feather has its own spirit, and to wear and be guardian of that feather is a great honor.

​

Therefore, if you happen to notice that a feather has fallen from one of the dancers, please do not pick it up or take a picture of it. Please notify The Preston's or Herbal Phoenix STL as soon as possible.

​

13. The Blanket next to the Dancers

It is a “tip jar,” so to speak. To compensate the dancer, flutist, singer, and speakers, we offer tips by laying them on the blanket.

​

No one other than the entertainer or speaker, at the time, should ever remove money from the blanket.