There are a least two host drums. A Northern, a Southern, and sometimes a Canadian, and they are responsible for keeping the competition flowing in an uninterrupted manner with no gaps in music. Northern and Southern do not refer to the part of the country the drum comes from. Women should wear a shawl, or scarf, or even a sweater across their shoulders as a sign of respect of the traditions of the arena and the drum. You should relax, let your feet do their own thing, and enjoy the fellowship.
Children are welcome to dance as well.
The Inter-Tribal, The Round Dance, The Friendship Dance and The Social Dance or Two Step. Wow, it is important to remember that you are a guest, and an observer of ancient ceremonies and traditions that have survived every possible adversity. Here are things you need to know for proper behavior. Once the dance arena has been blessed with sage and prayer, it becomes spiritual ground. Do no walk across the arena and don't allow your children to run into the arena.