Definition of Dance Styles

Gourd Dance - In the Gourd Dance, dancers have a gourd/tin can rattle and a fan (one in each hand). They wear beads over one shoulder or a red and blue shawl over both shoulders, which is sometimes decorated with German silver pins. Some wear cowboy hats, moccasins are not necessary. For certain ceremonies they dress in full regalia. This is usually a closed society dance performed by Veterans. It originated in the Southern Plains (Kiowa). The Gourd Dance precedes the grand entry.

Round Dance - The "Friendship Dance", is one of the oldest styles. All people are invited to join in the dance. This dance is performed by side stepping with left foot, moving in a circular manner, some- times holding hands. The dance sometimes circles back upon itself. Songs are one to two accented beats with a melodic pattern.

Men's Northern Traditional - (Including Crow Hop and Sneak Up Styles)-
A) Sneak Up is from South Dakota (Lakota). Dancers use a long coup stick and ruffle. It has a very fast beat, with dancers rising up and down with the whole body. Dancers never dance backwards because it symbolizes retreat/weakness.
B) Crow Hop - In one style, the feet come down flat on the heel. In another style a skip and a hop are combined. Both include dipping down and some sneak-up movements. This dance has been adapted to other dance styles.

Native American Sundance - Native Americans