38th Annual Homecoming of the Three Fires Pow Wow: “Our Future” celebrated on the Grand River

After last year’s historic Native American protest at Standing Rock (and numerous supportive events and marches locally) against the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL), this year is the perfect time to visit the annual Three Fires Pow Wow held at Grand Rapids’ Riverside Park.

Situated on the banks of the mighty Grand River, the 38th Annual Homecoming of the Three Fires Traditional Pow Wow provides an opportunity to experience and learn about the heritage of our first people’s lives at this social gathering that attracts hundreds of visitors each year.

In addition to providing booth space for folks to grab a bite to eat or to buy things from a vendor list of approved Native American crafts and designs, the year’s Pow Wow will expand upon their theme of “Our Future” via the three Grand Entries. The Grand Entry, which involves prayer, song, and dance, will occur twice on Saturday ( 1 p.m. & 6 p.m.) and once on Sunday (noon).

If you have missed this riverside Pow Wow in the past and had hoped to attend, please set aside time this weekend to learn just a bit more of the history of this place from the people who have been telling our region’s story long before most arrived here.  

Pow Wow organizers remind Rapid Growth that this is a strict drug- and alcohol-free event, so arrive sober please. They also ask that you do not bring your dog(s) to the event and under no circumstances should you leave them in the car due to the projected high 80s temperatures expected this weekend. Service dogs are always welcome at the annual Homecoming of the Three Fires Traditional Pow Wow.