Mother’s Day Weekend, on May 10-11, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM each day.
Why the Balboa Park Powwow is San Diego’s Tradition You Won’t Want to Miss
Every year, something special happens in Balboa Park. For one weekend in May, the Annual Balboa Park Powwow, hosted by the San Diego American Indian Health Center, transforms the park into a vibrant gathering of culture, tradition, and community.
A Celebration of Culture, Music, and Tradition
This year, the Balboa Park Powwow will take place on May 10-11, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM each day, and it’s open to the public at no cost. Whether you’re local or visiting, it’s a weekend you don’t want to miss.
The powwow is a celebration of Native American heritage, with an emphasis on dance and music. Bird singing and gourd dancing take center stage—both are deeply meaningful traditions that have been handed down through generations. As you watch the dancers and listen to the rhythms of the drum, you’ll witness the power of cultural expression that has been preserved, celebrated, and passed along for centuries.
This is not just an opportunity to observe a performance—it’s an opportunity to connect with a tradition that has shaped communities for generations. The performers aren’t just dancing or singing; they are telling stories through movement, honoring ancestors, and keeping their heritage alive.
Why This Event Matters
Beyond the performances, food, and art, the Balboa Park Powwow plays a significant role in the mission of San Diego American Indian Health Center. The powwow helps raise awareness for our organization, which provides health and social services to Native American communities in San Diego.
Attending the powwow means contributing to the health and well-being of the community, making it much more than just a celebration—it’s an opportunity to give back.
Event Schedule
Saturday, May 10:
- 10:00 AM: Bird Singing
- 11:00 AM: Gourd Dancing
- 12:00 PM: Grand Entry
- 1:00 PM: Honoring America’s Military
- 1:30 PM: Inter-Tribal Dancing
- 3:00 PM: Men’s Northern Traditional Special
- 3:20 PM: Inter-Tribal Dancing Continues
- 6:00 PM: Retire Colors and Closing
Sunday, May 11:
- 10:00 AM: Bird Singing
- 11:00 AM: Gourd Dancing
- 12:00 PM: Grand Entry
- 1:00 PM: Inter-Tribal Dancing
- 2:00 PM: Honoring Mother’s Day
- 3:30 PM: Aztec Dancers
- 4:00 PM: Inter-Tribal Dancing Continues
- 6:00 PM: Retire Colors and Closing
Plan Your Visit
Location: The event will take place at Balboa Park, located at Park Boulevard and Presidents Way, San Diego, CA. The event runs from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM each day, so you have plenty of time to enjoy the full experience.
Parking: Available throughout the park, but early arrival is recommended for the best spots.
A Gathering for Everyone
At its core, the Balboa Park Powwow is an invitation to everyone. While it’s a celebration of Native American culture, it’s also a space for all people to come together, share in the joy of community, and learn about a vibrant heritage. Whether you’re there for the music, the food, the art, or to support the health center, the powwow is the experience for you.
Paula Brim
For more information about our Annual Balboa Park Powwow or questions from Vendors, please contact Paula Brim: Send Message ›
