Dance groups that want to participate in Celebration must submit an application to the institute. SHI’s Celebration Committee will review all applications and decide which dance groups to invite to the event. To qualify, dance groups must have been in existence for at least one year and be able to demonstrate they participated in at least three dance performances during the past year. The committee also works to ensure Native communities are fairly represented at the event. SHI’s Board of Trustees designates a lead dance group for each Celebration. This allows a community to showcase their dance group, builds local pride, and promotes culture in the community selected. The lead dance group proceeds first in line at the Grand Entrance, parade, and Grand Exit of Celebration. (Application)