The last dance? Organizers of North America's largest powwow say 2026 will be the event's final year

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FILE - Thirteen year-old Leland Mitsuing, right, of Saskatchewan, Canada competes in the Jr. Boys Traditional competition at the 40th anniversary of the Gathering of Nations Pow Wow in Albuquerque, N.M., April 28, 2023. (AP Photo/Roberto E. Rosales, File)

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – For decades, tens of thousands of people have descended upon Albuquerque for what is billed as North America's largest powwow , a celebration showcasing Indigenous dancers, musicians and artisans from around the world.

Organizers announced Saturday that 2026 will be the last time the cultural event is held, saying via email and social media that it will end after 43 years without providing details on the decision.

“There comes a time,” Gathering of