It’s time to gather your team and brush up on your Dakota language skills. Hoċokata Ṫi will play host to the second annual SMSC Dak̇ota Iapi Akiċiyapi (Dakota Language Bowl) on April 26 from 9am-5pm in the Place of Gathering. The day will once again feature friendly competition, great prizes, and an opportunity for Dakota speakers to interact in their language. All are welcome to participate and attend the language bowl.

Teams of three people are invited to compete in one of five categories: youth beginner, youth intermediate, adult beginner, adult intermediate, and new this year, an adult advanced category for those who are more fluent in the language. During the competition, teams will be asked to display their knowledge of the Dakota language by taking quizzes, speaking, and singing. Challenges will include conversing with judges, showing knowledge of Dakota words and phrases, and singing songs in Dakota. The youth competition will take place in the morning, followed by the adult competition in the afternoon.

Study guides, prize information, and additional details can be found here.

Teams that register by April 17 will receive a free T-shirt. Same-day registration is also available. Breakfast and lunch will be served to all participants.

Discounted lodging is available at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel. Rooms are $155 per night, plus tax. Reservations must be made by April 9 to receive the discounted rate. The rate is applicable for the nights of April 25 and 26 only. Reservations can be made here.

For questions, contact the Dak̇ota Iapi Ṫípi at 952.233.9164 or iapi@shakopeedakota.org.