The gourd dancing lasted about an hour and included some ceremonial proceedings. Some of the events were a little difficult to follow as this was the first Pow Wow I've attended, but I believe that one of the ceremonies was to welcome a new member into the Gourd Society. The new member was dressed in black and wore a black cowboy hat.
It seems that one of the traditions Native Americans still practice is one of honoring certain people. After the new member was given a rattle by Charles Chibitty, the group began a walk/dance around the circle. Others from the tribes then passed in front of the first line of people, which included the new member, shook hands with them and then added themselves to the back of the group. When the procedure was finished, there was quite a large number walking/dancing around the circle. It is my understanding that those joining the procession give a small gift to the honoree when shaking his hand.