The Gathering of Nations

The Gathering of Nations is one of New Mexico’s largest cultural events and now is one of the world’s most recognized annual Native American festivals.

As North America’s largest powwow—first held in 1983—it’s a massive celebration of hundreds of Native American dancers and singers who represent more than 700 tribes from Canada and the United States. It is held annually on the fourth weekend in April. Events include 32 categories of dance competition, along with singing, drumming, and the pageant for Miss Indian World.

Along with the powwow are exhibits of Native artifacts and the popular Indian Trader’s Market that attracts more than 800 artists, crafters, and traders, all of whom make it a unique shopping experience.

The Gathering of Nations was born from humble beginnings in 1983 when the “unofficial” event took place at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. The following year, the Gathering of Nations Powwow was held in a small horse arena at the New Mexico Fairgrounds. It quickly outgrew that venue and moved to UNM’s basketball arena, also known as The Pit. For 30 years, the Gathering of Nations sold out The Pit, which fills with more than 20,000 people. Now, the Gathering of Nations has returned to the state fairgrounds, which today offers multiple venues throughout the grounds, all within walking distance.

There is genuinely nothing like the Gathering of Nations. It’s a special event for visitors as well as for its Native American participants. Taking place April 25-27, 2019, visit The Gathering of Nations website at www.gatheringofnations.com to learn more.