Among the Dahcotahs, women are not excluded from joining in their feasts or dances; they dance the scalp dance while the men sit round and sing, and they join in celebrating many of the customs of their tribe.

But the Virgin's Feast has reference to the women alone; its object is not to celebrate the deeds of the warrior, but rather to put to the test the virtue of the maiden.
Notice was given among the Indians that the Virgin's Feast was to be celebrated at Little Crow's village; the time was mentioned, and all who chose to attend were welcome to do so.
The feast was prepared in the neighborhood of the village.

The boiled corn and venison were put in wooden bowls, and the Indians sat round, forming a ring.

Those who were to partake of the feast were dressed in their gayest apparel; their long hair plaited and falling over their shoulders.

Those who are conscious of error dare not approach the feast, for it is a part of the ceremony that they shall be exposed by any one present.