BOLTON, NC — The Waccamaw Siouan Tribe has announced significant expansions and increased financial support for dancers, drum groups, and educational outreach ahead of the 54th Annual Waccamaw Siouan Powwow, scheduled for October 16–17, 2026.
Held at the tribal grounds at 7239 Old Lake Road in the Buckhead community near Bolton, the annual celebration of culture, tradition, and fellowship attracts visitors and participants from across the region.
Increased Competition Payouts
Thanks to community sponsors, the Waccamaw Siouan Powwow Committee announced significant increases in prize money across several competitive divisions for 2026:
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Drum Contest: Payouts have doubled for the top spot, with 1st place rising from $1,000 to $2,000. 2nd place increases to $1,000 (up from $750), 3rd place increases to $750 (up from $500), and a new 4th-place prize of $500 has been established.
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Adult Dancer Categories: Payouts have increased across the board, with 1st place rising to $600 (up from $400), 2nd place to $400 (up from $300), and 3rd place to $300 (up from $200).
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Parent & Child(ren) Dance Special: Sponsored by the Head Lady and family, this category offers $400 for 1st place, $300 for 2nd place, $200 for 3rd place, and $100 for 4th place.
Contracted Demonstration Dancers for School Day
The committee is introducing a new contracted initiative for “School Day” on Friday, October 16. Selected adult dancers will have the opportunity to be contracted for $125 to represent and demonstrate their specific dance styles for visiting student groups.
Dancers interested in the contracted demonstration roles must complete an online application via Google Forms. Organizers emphasized that all dancers remain welcome to participate during School Day regardless of selection for the paid positions.
Registration & Event Schedule
Dancer and drummer registration will take place during three designated windows at the tribal grounds:
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Tuesday, Oct. 13: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
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Friday, Oct. 16: 3:00 PM – 6:55 PM
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Saturday, Oct. 17: 9:00 AM – 11:55 AM
(Note: Organizers noted that participating in the Saturday parade will not yield additional competition points for dancers or drummers.)
Event Highlights & Gate Admission:
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Grand Entries: Friday, Oct. 16 at 7:00 PM; Saturday, Oct. 17 at 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM.
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Annual Parade: Saturday, Oct. 17 at 11:00 AM (Lineup begins at 10:00 AM at T & C Services, 286 Jacobs Road, Bolton).
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Gate Admission (Cash Only): Weekend Pass: $15; Single-Day (Friday or Saturday): $10; Children 4 and under: FREE.
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Participant Registration Fees: Dancers: $10; Drum Registration: $25.
Powwow Lodging Discount
In addition to tribal announcements, local hotel accommodations have been arranged for visitors and traveling participants.
The Econo Lodge in Whiteville, located at 503 N. J.K. Powell Boulevard, announced new management and updated room accommodations, offering a discounted “Powwow Rate” of $79.99 per night for the event weekend. Guests can reserve by calling the hotel directly at (910) 642-2378 and requesting the special rate.
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