The last dance? Organizers of North America's largest powwow say 2026 will be the event's final year

[BumRushDaShow]

Source: AP

Updated 6:13 PM EDT, August 16, 2025


ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — For decades, tens of thousands of people have descended upon Albuquerque for what is billed as North America’s largest powwow, a celebration showcasing Indigenous dancers, musicians and artisans from around the world.

Organizers announced Saturday that 2026 will be the last time the cultural event is held, saying via email and social media that it will end after 43 years without providing details on the decision. “There comes a time,” Gathering of Nations Ltd. said in a statement.

The official poster for the 2026 event features the words “The Last Dance.” Organizers did not immediately respond to phone and email messages seeking comment. The New Mexico fairgrounds have hosted the powwow since 2017, but it’s unclear whether the venue would be available for future events given that the state is considering redeveloping the site.

There also has been criticism over the years by some Native Americans who said Gathering of Nations organizers were capitalizing on Indigenous culture. Organizers dismissed those claims, saying the money raised goes toward the expenses of putting on the event.

Read more: https://apnews.com/article/gathering-of-nations-powwow-indigenous-native-american-f9d69ff3b3a62d08f7f2116aa5465c61

[hlthe2b]

1. This really saddens me. Albuquerque is the perfect setting, but perhaps other tribes will take it on elsewhere.

Sigh...

[John1956PA]

2. There are a few powwows which take place annually in Pennsylvania.

The large Beaver County powwow which had taken place for years in the month of September was disbanded about ten years ago. Fortunately, an annual powwow event has been taking place in the month of August for the past eight years in Mercer County.

[Old Crank]

3. The 55th Annual Stanford Powwow will be held on Mother's day

This event is run by the Stanford Native American student's Association. Nice event from Friday to Sunday every Mother's day weekend.

For several years I had the pleasure to handle fire safety at the event. The students run the whole show.

[2naSalit]

4. There are several...

In the western states every year on or near many of the larger reservations. This one is just the biggest for reasons I do not know.

[republianmushroom]

5. Sorry to see this happen.

[Bayard]

6. I'm guessing greedy developers want the land,

And have probably bought off city officials.

[Clouds Passing]

7. I have never been. I will go in 26.

I believe they are looking for a new place for the NM fairgrounds. The State Fair has outgrown the facilities and they are old and in need of renovations.

[Wonder Why]

8. Next year might be a good time to visit the state where we left our hearts.