Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community Wacipi Grounds — Attraction in Shakopee

Hi, a friend of mine and I went to the Wacipi and it was our first time and it does say open to the public and I understand we are to respect the ring and not go in the Arena but were we also not supposed to sit on the bleachers?

Because going everything was fine but I looked for signs on the bleachers for who could sit there and we didn't go in the one that said for dignitaries and elders and the bleachers were half empty at this point (Sunday around 6P) so I didn't think anything of it but then one girl came and said her spots were reserved and out blanket down where my friend was sitting (she had gotten up so they could pass her on the inside).

Then, because more space cleared out we went to sit closer to the ground/front seats of the bleachers and I think my friend noticed someone staring at us and I noticed another flipping us off?

We weren't trying to offend anyone and no one told us we couldn't sit there and I saw no signs other than the ones that said you couldn't save seats.

Can someone explain this to me? If I had offended someone I would have wanted them to tell us, we didn't know but I also don't know...

Seemed organized and planned well in advance starting with ample parking and shuttle rides to/from and friendly helpful staff. A LOT of people attended and there were numerous food and merchandise stalls to suit nearly every taste. Reports there were 1200 registered dancers and 200 tribes participating and/or competing. My main interest was photography and I feel well-rewarded with the colorful dances, costumes and the variety of faces old and young.

Arranged around a giant grassy circle with significant flags and pendants clustered in the center and steel/aluminum granstand seating around the circumference. Started off with the grand parade entrance, all participants marching in circles around the ground. Followed by various events such as Men's and Women's Fancy Dress dancing competitions around the same circle.

My only cons would be that more seating was needed and the master of ceremonies often cracked unfunny jokes, I can't really hold back top...

This was an amazing and beautiful experience with so many tribes coming together, across all generations, to celebrate their ancestors, community, the earth!❤️ I met many lovely people and made a couple new friends. 🥰 The vendor food was delicious. It was a safe experience all around. And the grounds and facilities were very kept up nicely. Parking was easy. Spectators are allowed to sit on the bleachers, we just need to be mindful of those that need to sit on the lower bleachers if they can't climb the stairs. Fireworks at the end of the night was awesome especially with the round dance and drumming going on at the same time. It was an unforgettable experience that truly lifted my spirits up. I'm so thankful for being able to attend...