The Gathering of Nations in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is an event like no other. Thousands of the best Indigenous dancers, drummers, musicians, equestrians, artisans, and craftspeople from across the United States and Canada will converge at Expo New Mexico at North America’s largest powwow. Thinking about attending? Let’s review what you can experience and some important things to know.
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When is the Gathering of Nations?
The Gathering of Nations powwow takes place Friday and Saturday, April 26 and 27, 2024, and is open from 10 a.m. until 11 p.m. at Expo New Mexico in Albuquerque.
What Happens at the Gathering of Nations?
Short answer: A lot happens at the Gathering of Nations! Specifically, there are competitions in numerous categories during which participants vie to be named the best fancy shawl dancer or drum group in a particular category, for example. The Horse & Rider Regalia Parade is the opportunity for members of horse tribes to showcase their horses, riding skills, and traditional regalia (tribal clothing).
Each day features two Grand Entry of Dancers, which is something most attendees want to see. On Friday, be in the Tingley Coliseum by noon and 7 p.m., and on Saturday at noon and 6 p.m. The new Miss Indian World will be crowned Saturday after the evening Grand Entry.
Pro tip: Leave earlier than you think you should to avoid missing the Grand Entry due to congestion on the roads and long lines to get in.
During the Grand Entry, all the dance contestants are led onto the floor of the Tingley Coliseum by Miss Indian World as drummers pound out a beat. By the time they are all inside, the building is packed with people from many nations proudly wearing their dance regalia. It’s a spectacular sight!
At Tingley Coliseum, dance and drumming contests will continue throughout the day and into the evening hours.
Miss Indian World
The coveted title of Miss Indian World is given to one young Indigenous woman who will serve as a cultural ambassador for the following year. On Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Kiva Auditorium at the Albuquerque Convention Center, contestants will present cultural talents. There are also special musical performances. The winner will be named on Saturday after the evening Grand Entry.
Note that the Thursday night event is ticketed separately from the events at Expo New Mexico.
Stage 49
Want to experience Native American musical arts? Be sure to visit Stage 49 on the grounds of Expo New Mexico where you can enjoy performances that range from traditional Indigenous music to reggae, hip-hop, and rock. See headliners Common Kings, Indigenous, DJ Logic, and more.
This is also where Miss Indian World contestants will answer questions as the time to select the next Miss Indian World approaches. Check for the stage 49 schedule on the link above.
Horse & Rider Regalia Parade
Since the Spaniards introduced horses to North America, these magnificent animals have been an integral part of the tribes that make up the Horse Nation. At 4 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, be sure to catch the Horse & Rider Regalia Parade to see women, men, and their horses being showcased.
The announcer will explain the riders’ tribes and regalia, and at the end of the two days, the winners in the men’s and women’s categories will be selected and one will be named Best of Show. The parade begins in front of Tingley Coliseum.
Indian Traders Market
Be sure to visit the Indian Traders Market, which is held in two buildings to accommodate the many arts, crafts, clothing, craft suppliers, food, and educational booths. This is a great opportunity to support Indigenous artisans and take home a special memento of your visit. Wander through the Creative Arts and Lujan buildings to visit with vendors.
Teepee Village
Near the entrance on Central Avenue, check out the Teepee Village to gain a better understanding of what was once the essential housing of the Plains Indian tribes: portable and quickly erected or dismantled.
Where to Stay
At peak time in the morning, the parking areas will be busy. One innovative way to avoid the lines to get to the parking lot is to camp at Expo New Mexico. Until sold out, both dry camping and spots with hook-ups are available for RVs and camping trailers (no tents, cars, minivans, or regular vans). You must commit to three nights, however.
If you’re not an RVer, the Gathering of Nations also suggests some partner hotels at the link above.
Where to Park at Expo New Mexico
Gate 8 on Louisiana Boulevard is the main parking lot, but organizers say that those driving buses or high-rise vehicles should come in Gate 1 off Central Avenue. In addition, Gate 1 has the most convenient handicapped parking as there is a tunnel you need to go through if you park at Gate 8. Parking is managed by, and fees are paid to, Expo New Mexico.
If you’re planning to arrive in time for the noon Grand Entry, you’ll be in line with many others intent on the same goal. Give yourself plenty of time to be in traffic, park, stand in line to get into the fairgrounds, and get a seat at the coliseum. But don’t worry, after that, things are pretty laid back!
According to the Gathering of Nations website, tickets will be sold at Gate 8 and Gate 3, and they will accept cash or credit cards. You can also purchase your tickets online.
Food at Gathering of Nations
Don’t miss visiting the food trucks at Gathering of Nations. You’ll discover more ways to use frybread than you ever thought possible, including rez dogs (a hot dog wrapped in frybread) and frybread pizza, plus more traditional Navajo tacos. You can also find coffee vendors, corn on the cob, and more to help fuel your adventures for the day.
Make your plans early to attend this popular event!