North America’s Largest Powwow Ending After 2026 in Albuquerque

The Gathering of Nations Powwow, North America's largest Indigenous cultural event, will conclude after its 43rd gathering in 2026 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, marking the end of a decades-long tradition. Organizers announced the final event with the phrase “The Last Dance” but have not disclosed reasons for the conclusion. The powwow, which draws over 100,000 attendees and thousands of performers from hundreds of tribes across the U.S. and Canada, features a grand entry procession, competitive dancing and drumming, the crowning of Miss Indian World, and horse parades. While the event has provided a prominent platform celebrating Indigenous culture, it has also faced criticism from some Native Americans for perceived commercialization and alleged exploitation of Indigenous culture, which organizers deny, stating funds support event costs. The New Mexico fairgrounds have hosted the powwow since 2017, but future use is uncertain due to possible redevelopment plans. Native leaders emphasize the importance of preserving traditional cultural practices and supporting smaller, community-based powwows amidst concerns about the commercial aspects of large-scale events like Gathering of Nations.