At a competition Pow Wow dancers are divided into categories by age, male or female and dance style. To learn about the specific dances, click Dance Descriptions. Dancers are judged by their regalia and their dancing ability. Drum groups also come to be judged.

      The dancing arena is called an Arbor. The front seats of the Arbor are for Dancers, Drummers and their families. Elders are given a special seating area.

      Most Pow Wows start Friday night with a Grand Entry. This is when all the dancers are drummed in. They follow flag carriers, who carry flags representing the nations present and an eagle feather staff. When this occurs, you should stand and take off your hat. This is followed by the dance competitions.

      There is a spiritual component to Pow Wows. Many traditions are inherent in the dances. Elders teach the dancers, especially the youth, the spiritual teachings that they need to know to truly be Pow Wow dancers. The teachings are more important than how well they dance or how nice their outfits are. If the dancers listen to the teachings, they will dance well. Their outfits will also be beautiful because dancers are taught to take pride in themselves. Dancers are warned to take care that all the parts of their outfits are firmly attached. If a feather comes off during their dancing, the dance is interrupted by the Arena Director. The Arena Director chooses the appropriate ceremony used to pick up the feather and everyone is told what has happened. This usually includes a drum song, an elder dancer to pick up the feather and words of advice. The dancers know by this ceremony how important it is to keep their outfits in good order.