Picture this: thousands of pristine white teepees stretching across the Montana landscape like a sea of canvas, while the sound of drums echoes through the valley and dancers in brilliant regalia move in perfect rhythm. This isn't a scene from the past—this is Crow Fair 2025, and you're invited to be part of something truly extraordinary.

A Living Tradition That Began Over a Century Ago

Each year in mid-August, Crow Agency transforms into a vibrant cultural epicenter, where tradition, family, and celebration converge during Crow Fair—one of the largest and longest-running Native American gatherings in the country.

What began in 1904 as a celebration of harvest and community has grown into a two-week-long cultural festival that honors Apsáalooke heritage and brings together tribes from across North America. Often called the "Teepee Capital of the World," Crow Fair earns this title as thousands of teepees fill the valley, creating the largest modern-day encampment of its kind. Rows of lodgepole pines and canvas stretch as far as the eye can see—an awe-inspiring sight and living symbol of the enduring strength of Crow culture.

A Celebration of Culture and Community

Crow Fair is more than just an event—it's a homecoming, a family reunion, and a living tradition. The celebration includes:

• Daily powwows with dancing that continues late into the night, featuring dancers in stunning regalia and drum groups from across Indian Country
• Parades each morning, where families showcase beautifully adorned horses, beadwork, and banners that represent their heritage
• Rodeos and horse races, highlighting the Apsáalooke's renowned horsemanship and competitive spirit
• Cultural exhibitions and craft markets, where artisans sell beadwork, quillwork, traditional clothing, and contemporary art
• Honoring ceremonies that recognize elders, veterans, and community leaders

More Than a Festival—A Way of Life

For the Crow people, Crow Fair is a time to reaffirm identity, renew spiritual ties, and pass on traditions to the next generation. The circle of teepees reflects the central values of kinship, generosity, and respect—core pillars of Apsáalooke life.

Visitors are welcomed with warmth and respect, and are encouraged to witness, learn, and celebrate alongside the community. Whether it's the rhythmic pulse of the drum, the dazzling colors of the grand entry, or the smell of coffee welcoming friends and family to each camp, Crow Fair is a sensory and spiritual experience unlike any other.

When Culture Comes Alive

Mark Your Calendar: August 13-19, 2025 (visitor days: August 15-17)

Each day at Crow Fair unfolds like a carefully choreographed celebration of life and heritage. Your adventure begins early—arrive by 9 a.m. to catch the morning parade as tribal members in traditional dress process through the encampment around 10 a.m. Find your spot along the parade route and prepare to be mesmerized.

But the real magic happens at 6 p.m. with the powwow's grand entry. Watch as flags are presented with reverence, and then hold your breath as hundreds of dancers in full regalia enter the circular arbor. Last year, 550 dancers participated, each wearing handmade regalia that tells their personal story through intricate beadwork, feathers, and symbolic designs.

The contrast is striking and intentional—while the teepees maintain their traditional pure white canvas, the dancers explode in a kaleidoscope of colors that edge on flamboyant. It's a visual feast that celebrates both tradition and individual expression.

More Than Just Dancing

Crow Fair isn't just about the powwow (though the non-stop dance competitions until 10 p.m. are absolutely captivating). You'll also experience:

• Heart-pounding rodeo action at the All-Indian rodeo
• Thrilling Indian Relay races that will have you on the edge of your seat
• Traditional crafts and jewelry from local artisans
• Authentic Native American cuisine from various food vendors
• Cultural immersion that offers a genuine window into Apsáalooke life

Planning Your Visit

Getting There: Crow Agency sits 60 miles south of Billings, just off I-90. Take exit 510 and follow the signs—you can't miss the spectacular teepee encampment on the east side of the interstate.

What It Costs:

• Event admission fees may vary, but cash will be required
• Official program: $10 (includes event details, dance descriptions, and cultural history)
• Photo license: $35/day or $50/weekend (required for photography)

What to Bring: Come prepared for Montana weather with sunscreen, portable chairs or blankets, and plenty of water. Your four-legged friends are welcome too—just keep them leashed and remember that horses have the right of way!

Special Accommodations: The organizers have thoughtfully provided accessible spaces at the arbor for visitors with limited mobility. Don't hesitate to ask traffic directors for assistance.

A Welcome Mat for All

Here's what makes Crow Fair truly special: while it's deeply rooted in Apsáalooke tradition, non-tribal members are genuinely welcomed to participate in this cultural exchange. The powwow manager extends an open invitation to experience the color, beauty, and spiritual significance of traditional ceremonies.

This is your chance to step into a living piece of American history, to witness traditions that have been passed down through generations, and to gain a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage that continues to thrive in Montana.

Don't Miss This Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

Crow Fair happens just once a year, and there's truly nothing else like it. Whether you're drawn by the spectacular visual display, the powerful drumming and dancing, the thrilling rodeo action, or simply the opportunity to learn about a culture that has shaped the American West, this celebration promises memories that will last a lifetime.

The 20,000 visitors who come from across the United States and Canada, the hundreds of dancers—these numbers only hint at the magnitude of what awaits you. The real magic lies in the moments between: the pride in a grandmother's eyes as she watches her granddaughter dance, the thunder of hooves during the relay races, the quiet reverence during ceremonial moments, and the warm welcome extended to every visitor.

Ready to experience Crow Fair 2025?

For the latest updates and additional information, visit the official Crow Fair website at Crow Fair - Crow Tribe Tourism Office. Remember to bring cash, your camera license, and an open heart ready to be filled with the beauty of Apsáalooke culture.

Some experiences can't be captured in words or photos—they have to be lived. Crow Fair 2025 is one of those experiences. We'll see you under the Big Sky in August!