The 36th Annual World Championship Hoop Dance Contest at the Heard Museum in Phoenix, Arizona brings together the best Indigenous hoop dancers from across North America and beyond.
Experience powerful performances, championship-level skill, and the living tradition of hoop dance at one of the most prestigious Native American cultural events in the world.
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Ya’at’éeh! Aaron Tsosie here, the person behind the camera!
This was (I believe) my fourth year filming the World Championship Hoop Dance Contest at the Heard Museum in Phoenix, Arizona, and every year it feels bigger and more special. I was so excited the night before that I barely slept — I kept thinking about my camera setup, my streaming gear, and seeing all my hoop dance friends again. By 5AM I gave up trying to sleep, packed the car, and headed out. I already had my media pass approved, and I heard it was best to arrive early with the dancers around 7AM to claim a good filming position — specifically where the spiral walkway meets the circle. The media pass intructions didnt say specifically when to arrive, but there wasnt anyone to check in media people until 8am. But I showed up at 6AM ready to go… only to find out we all had to wait until 8AM to enter. Lesson learned!
Once I was set up, everything ran smoothly. I streamed the entire day without issues, which felt like a huge win. Parking was free, general admission was $25, and $10 for Native attendees — and that includes access to the museum exhibits as well. There were food vendors on-site (Emerson Frybread and the lemonade stand for sure), plus the Heard café. Pro tip: skip the tiny $4 outdoor coffee and go inside the café where it’s $3 with free refills so long as you bring your cup back, or maybe the baristas were super cool and gave it to me for free. Water refill stations were available around the lawn, which helped a lot.
The weather was kind to us this year — not nearly as hot as some past contests — but once that Arizona sun comes out, you feel it. Umbrellas technically weren’t allowed, though some people had them. Just be mindful not to block anyone’s view, side deployment is best. SPF 50 is always a must out here. Seating is first-come, first-served: grass, stools, camping chairs — whatever works. If you bring a chair, make sure it has wide feet. Standard narrow legs will sink straight into the lawn.
The singers had short breaks to rest their voices and we had about a 45-minute lunch break. I almost ordered delivery so I wouldn’t lose any filming time — that’s how locked in I was. But honestly, being behind the camera all day, seeing dancers and families come up to say hi, and reconnecting with friends from across Indian Country — that’s what makes it worth it.
I had the best time documenting this year’s contest, and I’m already looking forward to August for the Santa Fe Youth Hoop Dance Contest. Ahe’hee’ for being here and supporting Indigenous events with me. Day 2 of the event coming soon!
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