The Harvard University Native American Program began hosting the annual powwow in 1995 in collaboration with students. Before that, powwows were organized by students and the community semi-annually.

Harvard Powwows have been held in many locations across campus such as the HKS courtyard, Radcliffe Lawn, the Divinity School, Lesley University, and more. Some previous themes include: A New Hope, Honoring Our Women, Brilliance and Resilience, and Embracing the Dreamers.

Planning for powwow is led by a committee of HUNAP students from Harvard College and Harvard graduate schools. The singers, artists, and dancers that join us are from all over — the Harvard community, the greater Boston area, and from tribes across the U.S. and Canada. 

To ensure a successful powwow each year, our students complement funding provided by the University with outside funding and in-kind donations from generous organizations, local businesses and individuals. Please contact hunap@harvard.edu to inquire about in-kind donations.