El Paso, Texas – The Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo is set to celebrate Tiwa heritage this weekend with the 15th Annual Rocking the Rez Pow Wow. The two‑day event begins Saturday, Oct. 3, at 11:30 a.m. and runs through Sunday, Oct. 4, at Pakitu Community Park, 601 Tiwa Blvd.
Why the Pow Wow Matters
Pow wows are a cornerstone of Native American cultural expression, offering a public space for tribal members and neighbors to share traditional dance, music, and crafts. Organizers emphasize that this gathering provides an opportunity for the broader Borderland community to learn about Tiwa customs, strengthen family ties, and honor the Pueblo’s ancestral roots.
Schedule of Performances
Saturday’s lineup includes a Gourd Dance from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., followed by the 1st Grand Entry at 1:00 p.m. A second Gourd Dance will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., leading into the 2nd Grand Entry at 7:00 p.m. Sunday repeats the morning Gourd Dance (11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.) and features the 3rd Grand Entry at 1:00 p.m.
What Attendees Can Expect
Visitors will see dancers of all ages wearing vibrant regalia, accompanied by traditional drummers and singers. The pow wow also hosts cultural food and art vendors, allowing guests to sample indigenous cuisine and purchase handcrafted items. Photo‑journalist Armando Ramirez captured the lively atmosphere in 2025, and his images illustrate the colorful regalia and community spirit that will return this year.
Family‑Friendly Fun
The event is open to families, with activities designed for children and seniors alike. Local schools have been invited to bring student groups, fostering intergenerational learning and reinforcing the Pueblo’s commitment to education about Native heritage.
Community Support
City officials and local businesses have expressed enthusiasm for the pow wow, noting its role in promoting cultural tourism and strengthening ties between tribal and non‑tribal residents. The Pueblo hopes the celebration will encourage ongoing dialogue about shared values, stewardship of the land, and the importance of preserving indigenous traditions for future generations.
Practical Details
Pakitu Community Park offers ample parking and wheelchair‑accessible facilities. Admission is free, though donations are welcomed to support future cultural programs. For updates on weather or schedule changes, follow the Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo’s official social‑media channels.
Whether you are a longtime resident or a first‑time visitor, the 15th Annual Rocking the Rez Pow Wow promises a vibrant showcase of Tiwa culture, community fellowship, and the enduring spirit of the Borderland.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
