Wacipi
Immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of Native American culture at the annual Wacipi celebration.
April 10-12, 2026
Join us for our annual Wacipi, a powwow that encapsulates the rich tapestry of Native traditions, dance and song. Hosted by the Tiospaye Student Council and USD Native Student Services, this event serves not only as a cultural celebration but also as a platform for prospective students, alumni and current leaders to connect and engage.
Learn About Our Upcoming Wacipi
Wacipi History
The Wacipi underscores USD’s dedication to Native students and the broader community. For Native attendees, it's a unique chance to showcase their culture on campus. For non-Native participants, it offers an immersive experience into the beauty of Native traditions. Beyond a cultural celebration, the Wacipi is a recruitment magnet, drawing prospective students from the region and serving as a nostalgic homecoming for alumni. With exponential growth in attendance, the Wacipi has become the longest-running student and campus powwow in South Dakota.Schedule of Events
Friday, April 10:
Annual Building Bridges Conference
Attend the the 28th Annual Building Bridges Conference—an initiative designed to introduce Native American students to higher education. Witness the transformation as 150 to 200 high school students, counselors and community members embark on a journey of educational exploration. Building Bridges is facilitated by the Psychology Department in partnership with Native Student Services.
Alumni Dinner
Join us for the 14th Annual Alumni Dinner hosted by Tiospaye Student Council. This event is open to all USD Alumni. This year's dinner celebrates participants and graduates of the USD Upward Bound Program, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary on campus this year. Upward Bound began in June 1966 with 53 high school seniors from Pine Ridge, Rosebud, and Cheyenne River, who participated in the 9-week college prep program. Doors open at 5:00 PM with a program that begins at 6:30 PM.
Saturday, April 11:
52nd Annual USD Wacipi
Head to the Sanford Coyote Sports Center on Saturday morning, doors open at 10 a.m. The main Wacipi event starts at 11 a.m. and runs until midnight. Grand entries are scheduled for 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Watch Native dancers, drummers and competitions from across the state and region.
Sunday, April 12:
52nd Annual USD Wacipi
Sunday at the Sanford Coyote Sports Center is your final chance to join the Wacipi celebrations. Doors open at 10 a.m., with the grand entry at 1 p.m. Enjoy a day packed with programming from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., showcasing exciting performances and competitions.
Featured News
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The Wacipi's Enduring Spirit: 50 Years of Tradition, Community and Celebration
Throughout its five-decade history, the Wacipi at the University of South Dakota has brought people together to celebrate and honor Native culture through song, dance, storytelling and community.
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