BILLINGS — Dancing, drumming, and elaborate beadwork are all on full display in Crow Agency this August, thanks to the meticulous planning and hard work of many individuals.
It’s a symphony of hammers echoing across the campground as around 1,500 teepees are being set up for Crow Fair 2024.
Thousands of Crow tribal members are establishing their temporary homes for the week in traditional teepee shelters constructed from poles sourced from the national forest.
Some of these shelters feature custom doors and unique finishing touches that represent each Apsaalooke family.
“What we are doing is rebuilding. We are replacing the old with the new. We are erecting a new camp. The old ones are over there, and over the years, they started tilting due to weather conditions,” says John Caplett, a Crow tribal member.
Caplett has been participating in Crow Fair since childhood. This event is an integral part of his heritage, just like it is for the 20,000 plus individuals who set up camp here every year.
“Every year, we have relatives and friends who surprise us by showing up. People from all over the country attend this event. It’s a joyous occasion. Essentially, it marks the start of a new year for all of us, similar to December 31st and January 1st for others. This is our new beginning,” explains Caplett.
While most recognize Crow Fair as the teepee capital of the world, there is more to this event than meets the eye.
Each day, parades showcase Crow culture through intricate family beadwork. Additionally, traditional dances in full regalia captivate audiences, drawing Native American contestants from various parts of North America.
“We have different dance categories, including veterans and tiny tots, and we provide payouts for all participants. Our goal this year is $140,000,” says Brinna Melendrez, Crow Fair general manager.
Contestants compete for substantial prize packages, comprising both monetary rewards and memorabilia like trophy jackets crafted by Crow fashion brands such as Brocade and Choke Cherry Creek.
From designers to dancers of all age groups, Crow Fair offers an opportunity to reconnect with indigenous roots, share meals with loved ones under hand-built cottonwood shade shelters, and relish the tradition that everyone eagerly embraces.
“It’s a ritual that everyone partakes in. The evenings are truly magical,” says Caplett.
The ambiance is perfect for savoring authentic Indian tacos, sharing stories of the past, and gazing at a sea of teepees stretching as far as the eye can see. This spectacle unfolds every year during the third week of August.
