The Mountain Man Rendezvous, a unique and vibrant chapter in American history, was an annual gathering of fur trappers, traders, and Native Americans in the Rocky Mountains during the early 19th century. These gatherings, typically held in remote valleys, served as vital hubs for commerce, social interaction, and cultural exchange.

Trappers, often solitary figures who spent months in the wilderness, eagerly anticipated the rendezvous. It was their chance to sell their hard-earned pelts—beaver, otter, and other valuable furs—to fur companies. In exchange, they received much-needed supplies: rifles, ammunition, traps, knives, tobacco, whiskey, and sometimes even luxuries like silk handkerchiefs and fine cloth.

Beyond trade, the rendezvous was a time of boisterous celebration. Storytelling, horse racing, wrestling, and shooting competitions were common. Music filled the air, played on fiddles, banjos, and guitars. Native American tribes, such as the Crow, Shoshone, and Blackfoot, often participated, trading their own crafts and horses, and engaging in friendly competition with the mountain men.

The rendezvous also served as a crucial social outlet for the isolated trappers. Years of solitude in the wilderness could take a toll on a man's mind, and the camaraderie and shared experiences of the rendezvous provided a much-needed respite. Old rivalries were settled, stories were swapped, and friendships were forged.

The Mountain Man Rendezvous remains a fascinating chapter in American history. It was a time of both adventure and hardship, a period when the American West was still largely untamed, and a time when the lives of trappers, traders, and Native Americans intertwined in a unique and often unpredictable manner.

The Sho-Ban Dance Troupe, founded three years ago by Keylii Tsosie, aims to preserve and share the cultural heritage of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes through traditional dance. Under the guidance of director Kara Tsosie, the troupe educates both the community and its members about the significance and stories behind various dance styles.

Female dancers perform traditional, jingle, and fancy dances, while male dancers showcase traditional, grass, fancy, chicken, and woodland dances. The troupe includes dancers of all experience levels, from those who have been dancing since childhood to newcomers eager to learn. They have actively participated in community events, such as the Lava Hot Springs Folk Festival, where they shared their cultural dances with attendees.

In April 2024, the troupe collaborated with the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) to celebrate Earth Day through dance, emphasizing their deep connection to nature and the environment.

Their performances often highlight the intricate regalia and the meaningful incorporation of natural elements, reflecting the tribe's respect for the earth and its resources.

The troupe's commitment to cultural education extends to collaborations with institutions like the Idaho State-Civic Symphony, where they have showcased traditional dances, further enriching the cultural tapestry of the region.

Overall, the Sho-Ban Dance Troupe plays a vital role in preserving and promoting the rich cultural traditions of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, fostering community engagement, and providing educational opportunities for dancers of all ages.

Special Recognition – Outstanding Scouts and Scouters will be honored for their achievements.

Period Regalia Award – Wear authentic 19th-century attire for a chance to earn a special award.

Ice-Cold Root Beer – Quench your thirst with refreshing root beer, available for purchase throughout the event.