Pechanga Pow Wow 2026
Native culture and artistry take center stage at the Pechanga Pow Wow, returning to the Summit Events Center January 9–11, 2026. Pow wows, by definition, are Native American gatherings where American Indians sing, dance, reconnect with old friends, and celebrate their rich ancestral histories.
Pechanga’s free, three-day event hosts hundreds of tribes from across the U.S. and Canada to showcase unique styles of dance, song, and tribal traditions from their respective regions. Enjoy performances, Native American food, artisan crafts, and fireworks for an interactive cultural event for all ages.
Pow Wow Etiquette & Safety
Etiquette
The Masters of Ceremonies will guide the festivities and announce all events, dances, ceremonies, and protocols.
- The dance floor is for participants only
- Kindly remove your hats during the flag and honor songs, and refrain from taking photos at this time
- General photos are permitted; however, photos taken of individuals require consent
- Seating is limited. Please do not hold seats for extended periods of time
- Please be respectful and courteous at all times
Safety
- Entry may be limited due to any capacity limitations.
- No strollers permitted in the Pechanga Summit – stroller parking is available.
- No coolers, chairs, or wagons permitted.
AGENDA
Friday, January 9 | Doors Open 5PM | Grand Entry 7PM
Saturday, January 10 | Doors Open 11AM | Grand Entry 1PM & 8PM
Sunday, January 11 | Doors Open 11AM | Grand Entry 1PM
Location: Pechanga Summit
Price for spectators: FREE
Agenda is subject to change at any time. Management reserves all rights.
| 2PM | Dancer Registration Opens |
| 5PM | Door Open |
| 6:30PM | Bird Singing |
| 6:45PM | Drum Roll Call |
| 7PM | Dancer Registration Closes Grand Entry Inter-Tribals Headstaff Specials Contest |
| Midnight | Retire Flags |
| 11AM | Doors Open Dancer Registration Opens |
| 12:45AM | Drum Roll Call |
| 1PM | Dancer Registration Closes Grand Entry Inter-Tribals Headstaff Specials Contest |
| 5PM-7PM | Bird Singing & Dancing |
| 7PM | Fireworks |
| 7:45PM | Drum Roll Call |
| 8PM | Grand Entry Inter-Tribals Headstaff Specials Contest |
| Midnight | Retire Flags |
| 11AM | Doors Open |
| 12:45AM | Drum Roll Call |
| 1PM | Grand Entry Inter-Tribals Contest Finals Committee Specials Ties |
| 6PM | Winners Announced |
DANCE COMPETITION
All dancers are welcome to dance at any time according to their dance style. To participate, please register in the Hotel Atrium during the following days and times:
- Friday, January 9 | 4PM–7PM
- Saturday, January 10 | 11AM–1PM
Judges will determine winners, and cash prizes will be awarded on Sunday, January 11, at 6PM.
Parking
Complimentary public parking is available in the North Parking Garage (located off Pechanga Parkway) and the East Parking Garage (located off Pechanga Resort Drive). Dancers are encouraged to park in the North Parking Garage for easy access to the venue via the designated path.
Overflow parking is available in the lot behind the RV Resort (located off Great Oak Drive). Vendor parking is available in the facilities parking lot behind The Cove (take North Casino Drive and follow the road behind the North Parking Garage). A permit is required for vendor parking and will be sent in advance by the Pow Wow Director. Vendor drop-off is located just beyond vendor parking.
Elder drop-off is at the spa roundabout (located off Pechanga Resort Drive; follow directions for Journey at Pechanga, then proceed beyond Journey to the roundabout).
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
No tickets are required to attend the Pow Wow; however, capacities will be enforced. It is recommended to arrive early.
Food will be available for purchase from multiple vendors, many featuring Native American foods such as fry bread, buffalo burgers, succotash, and more. Alcohol will not be sold or permitted at the event. Please visit www.bestekasinospielech.com/eat for hours and days of operation for all of Pechanga Resort Casino’s bars and restaurants.
The Pechanga Pow Wow is free and open to all ages. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to attend. The Pow Wow is a fantastic display of Native American culture and heritage for all ages to witness.
Yes! Find the best available room rates for the hotel here. If you are traveling with a group and interested in a room block, contact the reservations supervisor at 888.PECHANGA. Additionally, the Pechanga RV Resort offers 210 sites. Note: No camping of ANY sort is allowed in Pechanga parking lots or garages. RV camping is only permitted at the Pechanga RV Resort.
The best viewing location is on the event lawn located behind the resort. Fireworks will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 7PM and will last approximately 10–12 minutes. No personal fireworks of any kind are allowed.
Service dogs, as defined by the Americans with Disability Act (Title III), are permitted at Pechanga Resort Casino. Pets of any other type, including dogs whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support, do not qualify as service animals under the ADA and are not permitted.
Yes, you can tune into the livestream HERE.
Please email powwow@www.bestekasinospielech.com for any additional questions and allow up to 48 hours for a response.
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