STARVED ROCK POWWOW
September 12th, 2026
Join us in Utica, IL, at the Carey Memorial Park (248 E Canal St) for a vibrant celebration of Native American culture with the Starved Rock Powwow.
Hosted by the nonprofit Illinois Valley Intertribal, this event revives the cherished Harvest Ceremonial: an annual event, started in 1962 by the Sine family, that was beloved by the greater Illinois Valley community.
We hope that this second annual Starved Rock Powwow will be reminiscent of the iconic Ceremonials held by the Sines.
Schedule of Events
Gates open at 11am
Events Occur from 1 pm - 5 pm
Activities:
Flint Knapper
Drum Making
Corn Husk Doll Making
Necklace making
Face Painting
Tipi tours
Drums & Native Dances
Drums:
Blackbird
Rainbow Singers
Iron Bear
Native Food
Native Vendors
Speakers:
Casey Brown: 1pm
An Emmy Award-winning Ho-Chunk filmmaker who is developing a 2026 documentary, Indian Mounds in a Year, that examines and reframes Indigenous effigy mounds from a Native perspective.
Dr. Dale Simpson: 2:30pm
“10 Things you need to know about Illinois Archeology”
Please keep in mind that the 2026 Powwow will be held outdoors.
Bring chairs or blanket to sit on
No drugs or alcohol
Enjoy an immersive day filled with storytelling, traditional music and dance, handcrafted goods, and authentic Native foods.
Whether you're a participant or a spectator, the Starved Rock Powwow offers a meaningful opportunity to honor the enduring legacy and vibrant spirit of Indigenous culture in Illinois.
