MAAIM 50th Anniversary Celebration: Then, Now, Next.
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In 2026, the Mid-America All-Indian Museum (MAAIM) celebrates 50 years of honoring Native American cultures, artists, and communities in Wichita and across the region.

Since opening in 1976, the museum has served as a cultural center dedicated to preserving, sharing, and celebrating the traditions, creativity, and stories of Indigenous peoples. From exhibitions and educational programming to community gatherings and cultural events, MAAIM has been a place where Native voices, art, and history are honored and shared.

Our 50th Anniversary celebration — “Then, Now, Next” — reflects on our past, celebrates our present community, and looks ahead to the future of Native arts and cultural leadership.

​Over the next six months, the museum will host a series of special events, performances, workshops, and celebrations that highlight:

  • Native art and cultural expression
  • Indigenous innovators and leaders
  • Community traditions and learning across generations
  • The evolving future of the Mid-America All-Indian Museum

From concerts and festivals to educational workshops and a historic Hall of Honor, this anniversary year invites the community to celebrate the people, stories, and traditions that have shaped the museum for five decades.

We invite you to join us as we celebrate 50 years of culture, community, and creativity — and look forward to the next 50 years.

Mid-America All-Indian Museum 50th Anniversary Powwow

Join us as we celebrate 50 years of the Mid-America All-Indian Museum with a special anniversary powwow honoring Native culture, community, and tradition. This family-friendly event features competitive dancing, gourd dancing, Native singing, special contests, and free admission for all visitors.

Date: Saturday, November 21, 2026

50th Anniversary Powwow​ Schedule

  • 2:00 - 4:00 PM - Gourd Dance
  • 4:00 - 5:00 PM - Dinner Break
  • 5:00 PM - Grand Entry
  • 5:00 - 10:00 PM - Evening Session

Head St​​​aff

  • ​Head Singer: Sidney Toppah​
  • MC: Creighton Moore
  • Arena Director: Tahlo Moore
  • Head Gourd Dancer: Wendell Buffalohead
  • Head Man: Jerry Jirod
  • Head Lady: Sherry Lasiter
  • Northern Drum: TBA

​Dance​​ Special

​1st Place

​2nd​ Place

​3rd Place
​Fancy Dance
 ​$600
 ​$400
 ​$200
​Women's Cloth
 ​$500
 ​$300
 ​$200
​Men's Traditional
 ​$250
 ​$150
 ​$100
​Men's Straight
 ​$250
 ​$150
 ​$100
​Jingle Dress
 ​$500
 ​$300
 ​$200

Plus Tiny Tots and Potato Dance!

Parki​​ng

Reserved parking at the museum is available for guests with handicap placards and elders. Overflow parking is available at Exploration Place.

Admis​sion

FREE

Cont​act Information

We invite everyone to celebrate five decades of the Mid-America All-Indian Museum by experiencing the beauty of Native song, dance, and community at this special anniversary powwow. Whether you're attending your first powwow or returning as family, all are welcome.

Ne​​w to Powwows? Start with Powwow 101!

Before the big celebration, join us for Powwow 101 on Saturday, September 26 at 1:00pm. This interactive workshop is designed for anyone who wants to better understand powwow traditions and etiquette. Participants will:

  • Learn about the different styles of Native regalia and their cultural significance.
  • Meet Native cultural instructors and experienced dancers.
  • Learn the meaning behind songs, drums, and dance styles.
  • Practice basic intertribal dances in a welcoming environment.
  • Discover powwow etiquette and what to expect when attending.

Whether you're attending your very first powwow or simply want to deepen your understanding, Powwow 101 is the perfect introduction.

Become a Member​​

Be part of our 50th Anniversary celebration. Join as a member to receive updates, special discounts, and invitations to exclusive members-only events. We have a special 50th Anniversary Special Rate! ​​​​ Visit Our Membership Page for more details.​​​​​​​​