Join us for our Annual White River Wacipi June 27th and 28th, 2026 at the Arbor in the City Park Complex in Crawford, Nebraska
This is an traditional Intertribal Gathering with Dancing, Drums, Songs, Exhibits, Demonstrations, Arts, Crafts, Games, Story Telling, Food, Vendors and more.
Memorials, Adoptions, Naming and Honors are welcome.
Camping is available and encouraged.
Competition is for 18 years and younger focusing on the education and spirit of dance for youth. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd specials prizes awarded.
Visit us on Facebook – White River Wacipi.
Contact
White River Wacipi : 308-207-5688
Mail: White River Wacipi PO Box 477 Crawford, NE 69339
whiteriverwacipi@gmail.com
Facebook: White River Wacipi
The Importance of the White River Wacipi
“We must not forget to dance, to make each step important,” Taylor said. “If we don’t teach our kids how to dance now, they will soon forget.”
Scheduled for June 27-28 in Crawford, Nebraska, the Ninth Annual White River Wacipi is deeply connected to the region’s history of Native life. Angie White Taylor, president of the White River Wacipi organization, says that Cheyenne and Lakota Sioux Wacipis were held in this area before European settlers arrived in what is now northwest Nebraska. She explains that her ancestors traditionally danced in the valley at the headwaters of the White River, in the flatlands encompassing modern-day Fort Robinson, and at many other locations, including near the Niobrara River, Crow Butte, and Beaver Wall. Taylor emphasizes that, contrary to European misconceptions, these
gatherings were primarily celebratory rather than precursors to conflict.
“Dancing is listening and moving in harmony with a drumbeat that reflects the sound of the human heart,” Taylor shared.
“This place is sacred to our people,”
Angie explained one morning as she stood on a prairie-terrace above Crawford. “Right down there, where we now hold our Wacipi, is where my family camped and danced. My dad loved dancing. He taught me how to dance, both the men’s and the women’s footwork. I loved watching him. He’d look so solemn, then I’d catch a look in his eyes, and I knew he had moved into another world.”
Each year, the wacipi focused on honoring either a group of individuals in the community or a single person. Memorials were held to honor others. Many times, individuals received Cheyenne or Sioux names of relatives or of those who had affected their lives.
“I didn’t know Victoria White, Angie’s mother,” Brylee said, “but I knew how important she was to my family. When they tied that eagle feather in my hair, I was sure I would always be connected to her. I was only four, but that day will forever be etched in my mind. That day, I knew I would always respect Victoria and her people because my name was Brylee Marie Lee Allred “Chasing After Horses.” Those are the moments that often change who you are.”
The White River Wacipi has faced extinction a multitude of times spanning over 30 years. Most recently as 2025, however renewed strength has been found in new members brimming with enthusiasm and knowledge to bring together an event for 2026.
“I’m so excited about this year,” Angie, who will celebrate her 87th birthday on June 21, said. “We have a young, enthusiastic board that isn’t about to give up. All these years, we’ve danced in this region to celebrate. This year, the celebration will mean more than it ever has.”
White River Wacipi 