MPF kicks off powwow season
Friday - March 20, 2026 by Divine Windy Boy | The Southern Ute Drum
The Southern Ute Veterans Association brings in the flags during Grand Entry on Saturday Evening. Rudley Weaver, Raymond Baker and Gordon Hammond present colors during the flag
Lady dancers line the dance floor during the second session of Gourd Dance on Saturday evening; members of the Southern Ute Royalty and visiting royalty danced side by side.
Head Man, Kenny Brown Sr. (front right) and Head Lady, Michelle Ware (front left) lead in Southern Ute Royalty and dancers during the March Community Powwow.
Neida Chackee dances during inter-tribals on Saturday evening.
Henry Whiteskunk II showcases the Men’s Fancy category of dancing, showing his best moves during the final MPF community powwow.
MPF Staff and family members of Stais Harlan, surprised the emcee with a birthday cake and special recognition during the event. Harlan, a former employee of the MPF, celebrated his 30th birthday with all in attendance. Harlan was recognized for his dedication to learning the role of an emcee and for his service to the Southern Ute community.
Northern host drum, “The Horses” of Ft. Defiance Ariz., sing an honor song for head lady dancer Michelle Ware during her special on Saturday evening.
Gourd dancers and singers fill the MPF during the final Community Powwow event; dancers shake their gourds to the beat of the center drum.
Photo Credit: Divine Windy Boy | The Southern Ute Drum
Photo Credit: Divine Windy Boy | The Southern Ute Drum
Photo Credit: Divine Windy Boy | The Southern Ute Drum
Photo Credit: Divine Windy Boy | The Southern Ute Drum
Photo Credit: Divine Windy Boy | The Southern Ute Drum
Photo Credit: Divine Windy Boy | The Southern Ute Drum
Photo Credit: Divine Windy Boy | The Southern Ute Drum
Photo Credit: Divine Windy Boy | The Southern Ute Drum
The Multi-Purpose Facility hosted its final community powwow event on Saturday, March 7. Community members, singers and dancers filled the MPF Gathering Room to dust off their moccasins, practice their songs, find new regalia at the multiple vendor booths and get their frybread fix at the MPF concession. The event featured inter–tribal dancing, dance exhibitions, gourd dancing, Grand Entry, and a special birthday celebration for emcee Stais Harlan. The MPF has hosted three community powwow events with the hopes to share cultural teachings to the community, specifically teaching dance styles to the youth.