In 1986, tribal leaders established Adawe Park, adjacent to the Ottawa Indian Cemetery, as the permanent home for the Ottawa Labor Day Powwow. The new site marked a major milestone in the Ottawa Tribe’s modern history—the first time since 1910 that Ottawas held social dances on tribally-owned land.

For over two decades, the Ottawa Labor Day Powwow had been held at Beaver Springs Indian Park on Quapaw lands. The return to tribally-owned grounds symbolized a new era of self-determination following reinstatement.

Second Chief Charley Dawes emceed the dedication ceremony, joined by Principal Chief Lewis Ballard, tribal dignitaries, and community members. The park featured a new dance pavilion, bleachers, and open fields for camping and social events.