He Sapa Wacipi Na Oskate · 38th Annual
Black Hills Powwow: Dates, Tickets & Visitor Guide (Just Updated)
The 2026 powwow ran October 9-11 at Summit Arena at The Monument in Rapid City, with organizers billing an overall prize payout of more than $200,000, the largest in the event's history.
2027 dates: not announced as of October 22, 2026. The 2026 event fell on Indigenous Peoples Day weekend; watch the organizer's site for the 39th annual dates.
Updated: October 22, 2026 | 2026 event wrapped; 2027 dates not yet announced
A record prize payout for 2026
The Black Hills Powwow Association says the 2026 overall payout will exceed $200,000, the largest in the powwow's history. The Champions of the Northern Plains singing contest accounts for $59,000 of that total. The three-day gathering also features dance categories, a fine arts show, the He Sapa Win pageant, a style show, youth wellness activities and hand-game, golf and archery tournaments.
Prize information is from the Black Hills Powwow Association.
Dates, venue and ticket prices
October 9-11, 2026
The 38th annual gathering runs Friday through Sunday. Check the organizer's schedule for arena events and Grand Entry times.
Summit Arena at The Monument
444 Mt. Rushmore Road North, Rapid City, South Dakota. Doors are listed for 4 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. Saturday and Sunday.
Adult 3-day pass: $40
Adult single-day tickets are $25. Youth ages 4-12: $28 for three days or $18 for one day. Under 4 and age 65+: free ticket pickup at the box office.
Verify ticket availability, fees and entry details with The Monument; times can change.
First time at a powwow?
The event welcomes spectators. Visit Rapid City describes Wacipi 101 introductions, free with a day pass, during Grand Entries. They cover cultural protocols, dance styles, regalia and key parts of the gathering. Follow the Master of Ceremonies and event staff. Respect dancers and their regalia, and ask before taking photographs or video.
For schedules, photo rules, and regalia and arena etiquette, see the event's organizer website.
Where to stay in Rapid City
Summit Arena is in central Rapid City. Compare nearby options in our Rapid City hotel guide. For a longer fall trip, our Black Hills in October guide covers seasonal hours, fall colors and other events that weekend.
Black Hills Powwow FAQ
When and where is the 2026 Black Hills Powwow?
He Sapa Wacipi Na Oskate, the 38th annual Black Hills Powwow, takes place October 9-11, 2026, at Summit Arena at The Monument, 444 Mt. Rushmore Road North in Rapid City, South Dakota.
How much are Black Hills Powwow tickets?
The Monument lists adult tickets at $25 for one day or $40 for three days, and youth ages 4-12 at $18 for one day or $28 for three days. Children under 4 and adults 65 or older are free, but must pick up a ticket at the box office.
Can first-time visitors attend the Powwow?
Yes. Visit Rapid City says the event welcomes spectators and offers Wacipi 101 introductions, free with a day pass, during Grand Entries. Check the event organizer for current details and follow the Master of Ceremonies and staff guidance throughout the gathering.