If you’re looking for a powwow that brings serious energy, high stakes, and good medicine—this is it.
The Northern Ute Celebration Powwow returns to Ft. Duchesne, Utah on July 3–6, 2025, and it’s already shaping up to be one of the biggest powwows of the year.
From the $20,000 grand prize drum contest to the electrifying Jace Mt. Lion Men’s Fancy Special, this celebration is packed with power.
Let’s break it down.
Contents
- 1 Drum Contest: $20,000 to the Top Crew
- 2 Dance Categories & Payouts
- 3 Specials To Watch For
- 4 Grand Entry Times
- 5 Meet the Team
- 6 This Is More Than a Powwow
- 7 🔎 15 FAQ About the Northern Ute Celebration Powwow and Ft. Duchesne, Utah
- 8 🎯 10 Things To Do in the Ft. Duchesne / Vernal, Utah Area
- 9 Be There in July
Drum Contest: $20,000 to the Top Crew
That’s right. This is one of the biggest drum payouts in powwow country.
- 🏆 1st Place: $20,000
- 🥇 2nd Place: $15,000
- 🥈 3rd Place: $10,000
- 🥉 4th Place: $8,000
- 🥊 5th Place: $6,000
Host Drums USA: Midnite Express (Twin Cities, MN)
Host Drums Canada: High Noon (Thunderchild, SK)
With Joel Wood from Maskwacis, AB as Head Drum Judge, you can bet the judging will be top-tier.
Dance Categories & Payouts
Whether you’re a tiny tot or golden age, there’s something for everyone.
Tiny Tots
- Paid all 4 sessions
Junior’s (7–12)
- 1st: $500
- 2nd: $400
- 3rd: $300
- 4th: $200
- 5th: $100
Teen’s (13–17)
- 1st: $1,000
- 2nd: $800
- 3rd: $600
- 4th: $400
- 5th: $200
Jr. Adult (18–39)
Sr. Adult (40–59)
- 1st: $1,500
- 2nd: $1,200
- 3rd: $1,000
- 4th: $800
- 5th: $600
Golden Age (60+) Men & Women Combined Categories
- 1st: $1,500
- 2nd: $1,200
- 3rd: $1,000
- 4th: $800
- 5th: $600
Specials To Watch For
✨ Jace Mt. Lion Men’s Fancy Special
- Winner takes all: $3,000
⭐ More Specials TBA ⭐
Stay tuned for updates—more specials are expected to be announced soon!
Grand Entry Times
- Thursday (July 3): 7:00 PM (Youth/Warm-Up)
- Friday (July 4): 7:00 PM (Point System Begins)
- Saturday (July 5): 1:00 PM & 7:00 PM
- Sunday (July 6): 1:00 PM
Meet the Team
- MCs: Dougie Rain & Bart Powaukee
- Arena Directors: Jonathan WindyBoy & Darren Cuch
- Head Dance Judge: Charlie Denny
- Sound: Hoka Sound (Oklahoma)
- Tabulations: C&T Tabulations (Muskoday, SK)
This Is More Than a Powwow
The Northern Ute Celebration is more than cash prizes and contests. It’s a gathering of nations. A place to reconnect with culture, family, and spirit.
Held on the beautiful lands of the Ute Indian Tribe/Northern Ute Powwow Committee, this is a drug- and alcohol-free event that promotes healing, wellness, and community.
🔎 15 FAQ About the Northern Ute Celebration Powwow and Ft. Duchesne, Utah
- Where is the Northern Ute Celebration Powwow held?
It’s held in Ft. Duchesne, Utah on the Uintah and Ouray Reservation, home to the Northern Ute Tribe. - What are the powwow dates?
July 3–6, 2025, with Grand Entries starting Thursday evening and running through Sunday. - Is the event open to the public?
Yes! Everyone is welcome to attend and experience the celebration, Native or non-Native. - Is there an entry fee?
Most years it’s free or low-cost to attend, but always check with the committee closer to the date. - Are there hotels nearby?
Yes. The closest hotels are in Vernal, Utah—about 25 minutes from the powwow grounds. - Can I bring kids?
Absolutely. It’s a family-friendly event with Tiny Tot sessions and a safe, respectful atmosphere. - Is there parking on-site?
Yes, there’s usually designated parking near the grounds—arrive early for the best spots. - Are there food vendors?
Yes! You’ll find Indian tacos, frybread, and other local favorites, plus arts and crafts. - Can I take photos or videos?
Yes—but always be respectful and ask permission before photographing individuals or ceremonies. - Is it a drug- and alcohol-free event?
Yes. This is a clean, sober gathering that focuses on healing, culture, and family. - Can I camp on-site?
Sometimes yes—depending on land availability and weather. Check with the powwow committee. - How big is the powwow?
It’s one of the larger powwows in the region, especially with the $20,000 drum contest bringing in top groups. - What’s the weather like in July?
Warm and dry—expect highs around 85–95°F, so bring sunblock and water. - Who can dance or drum?
Registered dancers and drums are eligible to compete. Spectators are welcome to observe and celebrate. - Where can I get updates?
Follow the Northern Ute Powwow Committee or local community Facebook pages for updates and flyer drops.
🎯 10 Things To Do in the Ft. Duchesne / Vernal, Utah Area
- Visit the Uintah & Ouray Tribal Museum
Learn the history of the Ute people; gain cultural insight and support local heritage preservation. - Explore Dinosaur National Monument
See real dinosaur fossils in the rock; experience scenic canyons and petroglyphs in one trip. - Check out the Utah Field House of Natural History
Great for kids and families; hands-on exhibits and life-sized dino replicas make learning fun. - Take a float trip on the Green River
Enjoy a peaceful outdoor adventure; perfect for cooling off and seeing Utah’s wild beauty. - Stop at McConkie Ranch Petroglyphs
Incredible ancient rock carvings; it’s quiet, uncrowded, and deeply spiritual. - Go fishing at Bottle Hollow Reservoir
Catch trout and bass; a relaxing way to connect with the land and unplug. - Hike at Red Fleet State Park
Short scenic hikes with red rock views; spot dino tracks right in the stone. - Grab a bite at Plaza Mexicana in Vernal
Big plates, bold flavor; perfect for post-powwow eats with the crew. - Visit Fantasy Canyon
A hidden gem with surreal rock formations; amazing spot for photography and exploring. - Attend Ute Indian Tribe Rodeo (if it lines up)
Fast horses and fierce competition; experience another piece of Ute tradition and pride.
Be There in July
Whether you’re a dancer, a singer, a vendor, or just someone who loves the powwow circle, this celebration is for you.
Save the dates. Make the drive. Bring your crew.
July 3–6, 2025 | Ft. Duchesne, Utah
Northern Ute Celebration Powwow
Champions will be crowned. Hearts will be lifted. And the drum will carry us all.
