College of Western Idaho (CWI) will host a Social PowWow on Friday, April 24, at the Nampa Campus Quad. The event will bring together Native dancers, singers, and community members for an evening of cultural celebration.
Hosted by CWI’s School of Arts & Humanities, the event is made possible through a grant awarded to the El Dorado Institute of Nampa from Creative West and the National Endowment for the Arts. It is designed as a welcoming gathering for CWI students, faculty, and staff, as well as tribal members and the broader community.
Attendees will enjoy performances from dancers representing Northern Paiute and other local tribes, along with a visiting troupe from California, Danza Azteca Tlecoatl, known for traditional Aztec ceremonial dance and vibrant regalia. The evening will also include a social dance, drum circle, and local vendors. Traditional foods such as fry bread and Indian tacos will be available for purchase. Admission is free, and guests are encouraged to bring a chair.
The event builds on the success of a similar cultural evening held during the 2025 Idaho Indian Education Summit at CWI, which was warmly received by participants and community members.
PowWows and social dances serve as important cultural gatherings that celebrate Native heritage, strengthen community connections, and provide opportunities for learning and cultural exchange.
Social PowWow
Friday, April 24
4:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Nampa Campus Quad
Community members of all backgrounds are invited to attend and experience an evening of music, dance, and Native American culture at CWI.
For more information, contact Dr. Justin Vance at justinvance@cwi.edu.
