All Welcome to SMSC Dance Exhibition at Mall of America on Aug. 13

The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) will host a free dance exhibition for Mall of America visitors on Thursday, August 13, at the Mall of America Rotunda.

As a preview of the annual SMSC Wacipi (Pow Wow) on Aug. 14-16, the exhibition will include dancers from the SMSC and tribes throughout the United States and Canada. The exhibition performances at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. will start with a Grand Entry, as dancers enter the arena sorted by dance style. All veterans will be honored during a special program at 3:30 p.m.

Dressed in elaborate and colorful regalia, men, women and children of all ages will perform several styles of traditional Native American dances with a master of ceremonies providing commentary to explain Pow Wow dances and traditions. Drum groups will sing and play Native songs appropriate for each type of dance.

SMSC Wacipi is Aug. 14-16

The SMSC Wacipi is Friday-Sunday, Aug. 14-16, at the Wacipi Grounds in Shakopee (3212 Dakotah Parkway, near Mystic Lake Casino Hotel). A Wacipi (a Dakota word that means “they dance,” pronounced “wah-chee-pee”), often called a Pow Wow, originated from traditional gatherings of tribes held to celebrate the end of a season, a good hunt, or another positive event. The SMSC Wacipi today includes a variety of competitive dance categories, as well as vendors of Native crafts and food, such as wild rice and fry bread.

Wacipi buttons will be available for $5 at the gate. The button will cover admission for the entire weekend and an evening meal on Saturday. Admission and the Saturday evening meal will be free for everyone ages 60 and older or 10 and younger (no button required). On-site parking will be free, and golf cart shuttles will be available to help attendees who need transportation to the gate. For more information and directions, visit smscwacipi.org or facebook.com/shakopeepowwow.