Drum groups are invited to participate in our wacipi as well. There are exhibitions and contests throughout the three days, including dance categories, such as Men's Fancy, Jingle Dress, Fancy Shawl, and Golden Age, among others. The Master of Ceremonies, called 'Éyapaha,' calls for intertribal dancing, allowing everyone to dance together. Today, the SMSC Wacipi is a contest powwow, where dancers compete in dance categories and age groups, including tiny tots, juniors, teens, junior and senior adults, and golden age. Once the dancers have entered the circle, a prayer is said, and attendees are asked to stand and remove their hats as the drum group sings songs to honor the flag and the veterans. This is followed by the Grand Entry with the Veterans Color Guard carrying in the flags and eagle staff, followed by visiting dignitaries, tribal royalty, and the dancers. The SMSC Wacipi begins with a blessing of the dance circle. From the inspiring rhythms of the drum groups to Native American dancers in full regalia, we invite you to share in our culture. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the whirl of colors, sights and sounds of our annual SMSC Wacipi. There, Indian people would dance to entertain, but the dancing was originally a part of ceremonial practices and used to tell tribal stories. It was originally a gathering time held at the end of a season to celebrate a good hunt or recognize a positive event. A time to gather, share, reflect and thank the Creator. This is a time when Native Americans gather to meet old friends, make new ones, and honor those who have come before them. Native Americans gather for a cultural and social celebration of dancing, singing and visiting. The wacipi, or powwow, is a celebration of life. Dance has always been an important part of our ancestors' ceremonial practices.

Wacipi means 'they dance' in the Dakota language.

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