The Standing Arrow Powwow Grounds in Elmo will undergo significant upgrades aimed at transforming the site into a year-round community hub. These improvements are designed to generate revenue while enhancing the experience for visitors.
The upgrades include the construction of a 15-slot RV park with full hookups, blacktop pads, and picnic areas, which will remain open throughout the year, aside from powwow weekends. This initiative seeks to attract visitors to the area beyond the annual powwow.
In addition to the RV park, the powwow committee is converting three small blackjack stands into Airbnb rentals. These units will be extended by 12 feet and equipped with bathrooms and showers, offering accommodations year-round, except during powwow events when they will host special guests.
According to an article published by Charkoosta News, Leonard Michel, chairman of the Standing Arrow Powwow Committee, emphasized the potential of these projects, stating, “These are revenue-generating projects. When we get it all set up, we can use it for more than just a powwow.”
Volunteers recently planted 20 trees along the sides of the war dance arbor and other areas of the grounds. The committee hopes these trees will provide shade for dancers during events and beautify the site.
Michel also encouraged community involvement, saying, “We want to make this a place the community is proud of, and we’re asking families to adopt a tree.” By fostering community stewardship, the committee believes the grounds will be better maintained and appreciated.
As part of the upgrades, the committee is enhancing vendor areas with blacktopping and installing shades and lights to improve the overall vendor experience. New restroom facilities will feature updated toilets, partitions, and mirrors, ensuring comfort for dancers and visitors alike. The committee also plans to expand existing bathroom facilities near the vendor area to include additional showers and laundry facilities for RV park users.
Other ongoing improvements include the installation of commercial coolers in concession stands, allowing vendors to operate more efficiently.