A pow wow is a gathering of Indian Nations in a common circle of friendship.

Indian Country is made up of many tribal nations, bands, villages, and pueblos, each with their own traditional tribal beliefs and practices. A pow wow is the common fiber which draws Indian people together. It is a time for sharing with old friends and making new friends; a time for singing and dancing. It is a time for trading; trading craft goods and trading songs.

The term pow wow comes from the Algonquin nation of the Eastern Woodlands, meaning "a gathering of spiritual leaders." Since the early days, Europeans thought "pow wow" referred to any large gathering of Indian people. Now it is a name often used for Indian celebrations.