FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 3, 2026

Shoshone-Bannock Tribes welcome all to the 61st Annual Indian Festival

FORT HALL, Idaho – The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes invite everyone to experience four days of culture, competition, entertainment, and community during the 61st Annual Shoshone-Bannock Indian Festival, August 6 – 9, 2026.

Guided by this year’s theme, “One people, one purpose, one future,” the Festival celebrates the traditions that have united generations while embracing the future of the Shoshone-Bannock people. From championship powwow dancing to the heart-pounding excitement of Indian Relay Racing, the Festival offers an unforgettable experience for first-time visitors and longtime attendees alike.  

“The Shoshone-Bannock Indian Festival is a celebration of who we are as a people and an opportunity to share our culture and traditions with everyone who joins us,” Chairwoman Donna Thompson said. “Whether you’re returning home or visiting Fort Hall for the first time, we welcome you to experience our hospitality, celebrate alongside us, and create memories that will last a lifetime.”

“We are excited to welcome participants, visitors, and spectators to this year’s Festival,” said Festival Coordinator Leah Tindore. “Our theme, ‘One people, one purpose, one future,’ reminds us when we gather together in a good way we strengthen our community. We are so excited to have you all.”

The Festival will feature a variety of events and entertainment for all. At the heart of the celebration is the competitive powwow at the Delbert Farmer Festival Arbor, featuring champion dancers and drum groups from across Indian Country, including Host Drum Blackstone from Saskatchewan, Canada. The Children’s Powwow Grand Entry begins at 7 p.m. on Thursday. Grand Entry for the main powwow is at 7 p.m. on Friday, at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday, and 1 p.m. on Sunday. Powwow events are free and open to the public.

This year’s Festival also includes two parades beginning at 10 a.m. on Thursday and Saturday, starting at the east end of Agency Road. Thursday’s Kid’s Parade Grand Marshal is the Shooting Stars Little League Softball Team, while Saturday’s Grand Marshal will be Honoring Native Female Veterans.

Festival-goers can enjoy some of Indian Country’s most exciting sporting events, including Indian Relay Racing at the Fort Hall Rodeo Arena (Admission fee applies) and the INFR Tour Rodeo. Additional competitions include Handgames, All-Indian softball, golf, and horseshoe tournaments, along with the Art Show, Fun Run/Walk, and Skate Jam.

Visitors will also find numerous Native arts and crafts vendors, food stands, and family-friendly activities throughout the weekend. A community favorite, the Traditional Salmon and Buffalo Feast, will once again be offered free to attendees.

Another highlight of the weekend is the crowning of Miss Shoshone-Bannock, who serves as a cultural ambassador for the Tribes. This year’s contestant is Tay’a Osborne, she will be crowned on Friday at 5 p.m.

For a full schedule of events, attendees may purchase the Sho-Ban News Festival Edition, which includes a special newspaper and magazine featuring head staff profiles, royalty welcomes, and stories highlighting talented Shoshone-Bannock artists. Festival Editions are available at Sho-Ban News stands on the Festival Grounds, at T.P. Gas, Trading Post Grocery Store, Donzia Gift Shop, Blue Corner Store, Fort Hall Museum, Sage Hill Travel Center, and Bannock Peak Truck Stop.

The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes extend their sincere appreciation to all the volunteers, dancers, singers, staff, sponsors, vendors and community members whose dedication continues to make the Shoshone-Bannock Indian Festival one of Indian Country’s premier celebrations.

For more information, visit www.shobanfestival.com or follow the Shoshone-Bannock Indian Festival Facebook page.

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