ALLENDALE, Mich. — Native Americans from throughout Michigan will gather at Grand Valley State University to celebrate Indigenous heritage and culture at the 25th annual “All Walks of Life Traditional” Powwow on the first Saturday in April.
The one-day powwow is open to the public and will be held from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, April 4, 2026, at the GVSU Fieldhouse, 10915 North Campus Drive, Allendale, Mich.
The traditional powwow is organized annually by GVSU’s Office of Multicultural Affairs and volunteers from the Native American Student Association (NASA), who plan and operate the event.
“As the Native American Student Association president, I personally think GVSU’s powwow is incredibly important for Native students to be able to participate in these cultural celebrations, especially since many students may not have had access to this experience before,” Kella Elswick (Mohawk) said. “They also are a great way to bring all types of communities together and celebrate life through dancing, music and the history of the resilience of tribal communities.”
Traditional powwows include invited elders, veterans and other honored guests who dress in regalia, perform and participate in the celebration. The goal is to provide the community with educational and cultural experiences focused on Native American music, arts and culture, while promoting Native American self-reliance and pride.
To volunteer at the 25th annual “All Walks of Life Traditional” Powwow anytime between 9 am – 9 pm, email: gvsunasa@gmail.com.
