Winnebago Tribe kicks off 158th Homecoming Celebration Powwow

WINNEBAGO, Neb. (KCAU) – Since 1866, the Winnebago Tribe has been celebrating the homecoming of Chief Little Priest from his time in battle and honoring those who have served our country.

“It’s a tradition that we have been keeping alive for more than a century,” Winnebago head man dancer Dillon Bearskin said. “I think it’s really important for us to keep it going because it’s a part of who we are and what we do.”

With four days packed with music and contests, one tradition that everyone enjoys is the dancing.

“I used to dance when I was younger and my kids dance as well, so I like watching the dancers,” said Winnebago resident and Powwow attendee November Fiscus.

“I really like dancing for the little ones and inspiring little ones to dance more often,” said Junior Miss Winnebago Tulle Blackfish.

“My favorite part is the dancing and singing, and to see relatives come home, and everybody is just excited to be here,” Winnebago head lady dancer Christina Parker said.

As one of Nebraska’s oldest powwows, attendees travel from far and wide to dance and honor the homecoming celebration.

“It’s growing every year,” Parker said. “I was just speaking to a relative last night and she’s saying the arena is getting too small for the capacity that comes every year.”

But for Winnebago residents, the Powwow is a time to celebrate with their community.

“Everybody usually gets really excited for it,” Bearskin said. “It’s the one time besides basketball or other activities that everybody really comes together.”

The Homecoming Celebration will continue throughout the weekend and conclude with the finale on Sunday, July 28 at 5 p.m.

Click here for a livestream of the 2024 Homecoming Celebration Powwow.

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