The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs are hosting their annual Pi-Ume-Sha Treaty Days celebration this weekend, running from Friday, June 26 through Sunday, June 28 — and organizers say it is shaping up to be one of the most vibrant celebrations in years.
Pi-Ume-Sha, which translates roughly to "a place of shimmering waters," commemorates the signing of the Treaty of 1855, the agreement that established the Warm Springs Reservation and guaranteed tribal sovereignty over fishing, hunting, and gathering rights on traditional lands. This year marks more than 170 years since that signing.
Powwow Grand Entries
The three-day powwow is the centerpiece of the celebration. Friday's Grand Entry is set for 7 p.m. at the Pi-Ume-Sha Grounds behind the Warm Springs Community Center. Grand Entries on Saturday and Sunday both begin at 1 p.m.
The Pi-Ume-Sha Health Fair, a beloved community staple, has already wrapped up with 599 participants attending — a strong turnout that organizers celebrated.
Saturday: Parade Themed "Honoring the Horses"
Saturday brings the Traditional Parade, themed Honoring the Horses. The parade begins at 11 a.m., traveling from the old elementary school to the powwow grounds. Participants line up at 10 a.m. with judging at 10:15 a.m. Parade committee chair Ramona Baez continues a tradition started by her parents Verbena and Perry Greene in the 1980s.
Rodeo, Wild Horse Race, and Boxing
The Pi-Ume-Sha Open Rodeo runs Saturday and Sunday at the Warm Springs Rodeo Grounds, starting at 1 p.m. each day. Saturday admission is $20 per vehicle. The Azar Spino Memorial Wild Horse Race features 16 teams competing in two sections. Sunday's Youth Open Rodeo is free to attend.
Indigenous Rez Boxing returns to Treaty Days this year, scheduled for Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the former VFW Hall — a fan-favorite addition to the weekend lineup.
Stickgame Tournament
A traditional stickgame tournament is also on the schedule. The ancient Native game pits two teams against each other in a contest of strategy and distraction, with singing, drumming, and community spirit woven throughout. Organizer Vanessa Knightcrane welcomes both tribal members and the broader public to participate or observe.
"It's really family-oriented. There's something for everyone," Knightcrane said. "I guarantee it's going to be a good time."
Open to All
Vendors will be present throughout all three days, offering unique crafts, food, and items for purchase. The event is free and open to the public, and the Confederated Tribes encourage Jefferson County neighbors and visitors alike to attend.
For residents who have never attended Pi-Ume-Sha, organizers say this weekend is an ideal introduction to the living culture of the Warm Springs, Wasco, and Paiute peoples — whose history and presence are woven into the fabric of Jefferson County and Central Oregon.