2026 Wacipi

View the Event Guidelines Here

Wacipi—or powwow—is a traditional Native American gathering, a celebration of life, pride, and honor. Meaning “they dance” in the Dakota language, today’s wacipi brings together people from all over the country for three days of celebrating in a good way. It is a time for preserving a rich heritage, while reconnecting with old friends and making new friends.

Grand Entry sets the stage for each day’s contests and activities, which includes a ceremonious entrance into the dance arena, led by a Native American veteran color guard, visiting dignitaries, and tribal royalty, followed by hundreds of dancers of all ages. Representing dozens of tribes from across the United States and Canada, dancers dressed in traditional regalia compete for top honors in various dance style categories and age groups, while drum groups and singers surround the perimeter of the arena. Native American artists and crafters display traditional beadwork, jewelry, and handmade goods, while food vendors offer a variety of tasty, authentic meals and treats.

The SMSC’s Wacipi attracts thousands of visitors each year to honor the history of a strong group of people. We invite you to be a part of this celebration with us here at the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) for our annual wacipi in Shakopee, Minnesota, over the weekend of August 14-16, 2026.

Note: The SMSC bans guns on all properties, including the SMSC Wacipi Grounds. Use and possession of illegal drugs, alcohol, cannabis, or cannabis products is also strictly prohibited. Any person who appears to be under the influence of any such substance will be asked to leave the SMSC Wacipi Grounds and immediately escorted off property.

Info on Pets/Service Animals/Emotional Support Animals

Pets
Pets are not permitted at the SMSC Wacipi Grounds, Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, Little Six Casino, and/or any outdoor events hosted on SMSC property.

Service Animals
The SMSC welcomes guests with service animals as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). A service animal is defined as a dog (any size, any breed) trained to perform work or a task directly related to a person’s disability. Once the dog’s status has been verified a wristband will be provided to the dog’s handler that can be affixed to the dog’s collar, harness, or leash. The wristband may also be worn by the dog’s handler. This will help prevent further questioning by SMSC team members so guests my fully enjoy their stay.

*If attaching the wristband to the dog’s collar, harness, or leash please take care to ensure the wristband’s placement does not pose a hazard to the animal.

Emotional Support/Comfort Animals
Animals whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA. These would be classified as comfort or emotional support animals. Emotional support/comfort animals are not permitted at the SMSC Wacipi Grounds, Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, Little Six Casino, and/or any outdoor events hosted on SMSC property.