MARKSVILLE, LA – The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana will host its 27th annual pow wow on May 17 and 18, 2025, at the Chief Joseph Alcide Pierite Pow Wow Grounds on the Tunica-Biloxi reservation in Marksville, LA. The annual public event welcomes various regional Indigenous tribes to come together and celebrate their shared cultures through vibrant craft displays, music performances, dance presentations and cultural exhibits. Throughout the weekend, a variety of interactive events and live performances will showcase the history and traditions of the tribe, while also offering attendees the opportunity to learn about the cultural richness of neighboring tribes from across the region.
“The pow wow is an important moment for us to not only reflect on the strength and resilience of our people, but also to celebrate the shared cultural spirit of Native American communities,” said Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite. “After years of successful events, we are working tirelessly to make this year’s event even more impactful. It’s a time for us to honor our accomplishments and highlight the ongoing contributions of all Indigenous tribes. The success of one tribe is a victory for all of us as we continue to pass down our rich traditions.”
This year’s event will feature a wide array of performances, including the Tunica-Biloxi Singers & Legend Keepers, AC Woodlands Singers, Buc Wild Singers, Thunder Boy Singers, and Medicine Tail Singers. Dance competitions will be held for participants from ages 6 to 55+, and dancers can pre-register for the event by May 14, 2025. The pow wow will also host over 30 food and craft vendors, offering traditional foods, Indigenous arts, jewelry, and handmade crafts. Vendors interested in participating are encouraged to contact Babette Bordelon – babette.bordelon@tunica.org or Paulette Voiselle – pvoiselle@tunica.org.
In addition to the pow wow celebrations, the tribe will host a free Education Day on Friday, May 16, 2025, with two presentations at 9:00am and 11:00am at the Tunica-Biloxi Gymnasium. Education Day is designed to give local children and school groups a hands-on opportunity to learn about Native American culture through pow wow dance demonstrations, Tunica-Biloxi storytelling, flute music, and interactive cultural exhibits.
Additional information can be found at www.tunicabiloxi.org/2025-pow-wow/.
