Marksville's 28th Pow Wow to Celebrate John D. Barbry and Traditions

The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana will host its annual event honoring Native American culture and community.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana will host its 28th annual Pow Wow on May 16 and May 17, 2026, at the Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville. This year's event, titled "Honoring John D. Barbry", will be held at the Earl J. Barbry Sr. Convention Center and feature vibrant dance competitions, drum performances, cultural demonstrations, traditional Indigenous foods, handmade crafts, and more.

Why it matters

The Pow Wow serves as a regional celebration of Native American culture, bringing together Indigenous tribes and visitors to honor traditions that unite Tribal communities. The event aims to reflect on the Tribe's history while looking toward the future, reaffirming their identity and ensuring their customs continue for generations.

The details

The two-day program will include a lineup of host and invited drums to set the rhythm, as well as dance competitions for participants ranging from ages six to 55 and older. In addition to the performances, more than 30 food and craft vendors will be on-site offering traditional Indigenous foods, handmade crafts, jewelry, and indigenous arts. The Tribe will also provide an educational opportunity for local school groups on Friday, May 15, featuring traditional storytelling, cultural exhibits, and dance demonstrations.

  • The 28th annual Pow Wow will be held on May 16 and May 17, 2026.
  • The event will begin with doors opening at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 16.
  • Dancers must complete their pre-registration for the competitions by May 16, 2026.
  • The free Education Day for local school groups will be on Friday, May 15, 2026, with presentations at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.

The players

Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana

The Native American tribe hosting the annual Pow Wow event.

Marshall Pierite

The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe Chairman, who emphasized the event's significance in honoring the Tribe's history and traditions.

John D. Barbry

The individual being honored at this year's Pow Wow, whose legacy and contributions to the Tribe will be celebrated.

Pawnee Yellow Horse

The Southern Host Drum participating in the event.

Meskwaki Nation

The Northern Host Drum participating in the event.

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What they’re saying

“The Pow Wow is a sacred time for our Tribe, a time to gather in unity, reflect on the strength and resilience of our people and celebrate the spirit that connects Native communities across generations.”

— Marshall Pierite, Tunica-Biloxi Tribe Chairman (cenlanow.com)

What’s next

The Tribe will provide an educational opportunity for local school groups on Friday, May 15, 2026, with presentations at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. at the Earl J. Barbry Sr. Convention Center.

The takeaway

The Marksville Pow Wow serves as a powerful celebration of Native American culture, traditions, and community, honoring the legacy of individuals like John D. Barbry while ensuring these customs continue to be passed down for future generations.