Chumash Intertribal Powwow returns to Santa Ynez

The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians will host the annual Chumash Intertribal Powwow on October 3–4 in Santa Ynez, California. This two-day event serves as the tribe’s largest cultural gathering, bringing together Native American tribes from across North America to celebrate Indigenous heritage through traditional song, dance, drumming, and arts.

The powwow features dancing and drumming competitions with over $167,000 in cash prizes available. Participants range from young children to seniors aged 70 and older, competing in various styles including traditional, fancy, grass, jingle dress, buckskin, and chicken dances.

This marks the fifth consecutive year the event has been held on sacred tribal grounds in Santa Ynez, following several decades of hosting the gathering at Live Oak Camp in Santa Barbara. The event is open to the public and will include Native American artisans, traditional food vendors, and informational booths.