Anishinaabek: The Original People of This Place
Exhibit Grand Opening PowWow
Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 6 - 9 p.m.
Doors open to the public at 5:30 p.m.
Logo design by Rebby Stewart
Anishinaabek: The Original People of this Place is an exhibit collaboratively created with the Anishinaabe people of Michigan. Centered on the theme “We Are Still Here,” this redesign includes natural elements, connections to the Grand River, and opportunities to dig deeper into topics central to today’s Anishinaabe community. Through written and spoken stories, art from local Anishinaabe artists, cutting-edge technology, and interactive experiences, visitors will discover the past, present, and future of Anishinaabek culture.
In celebration of the newly redesigned exhibit, The Grand Rapids Public Museum is hosting a grand opening PowWow.
This event is free to attend and open to the public. We are asking guests to RSVP in advance to ensure we have adequate capacity. If you RSVP by Monday, October 5, 2026, you will be automatically entered into a raffle drawing for a prize at the event.
You must be present to win.
DANCER REGISTRATION will be available on the day of the event.
More information will be available soon about dancer registration on this webpage.
Head Staff
Invited Drums
- Ribbontown
- Iron Bear
- Sharp Feather
MC
- Shannon Martin
Arena Director
- Mike Medewis
Head Adult Male Dancer
- Loren Warner
Head Adult Female Dancer
- Diana Pitawanakwat
Head Junior Male Dancer
- Moises Juan
Head Junior Female Dancer
- Birdie Ives
Head Veteran
- George Martin
Specials
- Youth Switch Dance
- Sneak Up
- Potato Dance
- Spot Dance
Dancer Honorariums
$20 for the first 100 registered dancers
Dancer registration will be available on the day of the event.
Art and Food Vendors
Interested in vending at this PowWow? There are limited spots available.
Seating
Will be provided by the Museum, but PowWow attendees are welcome to bring their own chairs if preferred.
Parking
Will be available free of charge in the Grand Rapids Public Museum parking ramp and in the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum parking lot.
Hotel Information
Downtown Grand Rapids and the larger Grand Rapids metro area have many wonderful accommodation options. Here are a few that are close to the Grand Rapids Public Museum. PowWow attendees are encouraged to find whatever accommodations work best for your group.
- Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Downtown
310 Pearl Street NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
The Holiday Inn is the closest hotel to the Grand Rapids Public Museum, right across Pearl St from the Museum.
A block of 15 rooms is available at a special rate! Use this link and code APG to book! MUST BOOK BY SEPTEMBER 22ND! - JW Marriott Grand Rapids
235 Louis St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
A close and walkable option! Right on the east bank of the Grand River, overlooking the Museum. Take the famous Blue Bridge across the river for a scenic route. - The Blue Jay
644 Bridge St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Small boutique hotel in the Westside Bridge Street shopping district. A short drive or a 15-minute walk from the Museum. - Canopy by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown
131 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Less than a mile drive from the Museum and a 20-minute walk. Great on-site dining options and located near Studio Park cinema and shopping center. - Homewood Suites by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown
161 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
An easy 10-minute walk to the Museum through downtown. Located near many restaurants and coffee shops.
