Canada continues to be recognized as a global leader in Indigenous tourism, with several Pow Wows celebrated annually. More recently, Indigenous tourism and experiences have gained greater attention as travellers increasingly seek meaningful and culturally rich experiences.
Pow Wows are powerful Indigenous gatherings where Indigenous Peoples from different nations come together to honour their traditions and ancestors through music, dance and community. These events often include an impressive line-up of events and are open to all.
The gatherings bring together multiple generations in celebration of food, cultural traditions, community building and spiritual healing and considered important steps on the path to reconciliation.
The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) shares this year’s round up of Pow Wow celebrations happening from coast to coast to coast:
British Colombia
Kamloopa Pow Wow (June 27-29): Join the celebration of vibrant Indigenous culture at the 44th Kamloopa Pow Wow, hosted by the Kamloopa Pow Wow Society. This three-day event will take place at the Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc Special Events Facility (the Arbour) within Secwepemcúl’ecw, the traditional territory of the Secwépemc peoples. The Kamloopa Pow Wow expects an estimated 500 dancers and drummers from all across Canada and the United States, showcasing drumming, and dancing, colourful regalia, great food and shopping at the artisan vendor booths.
Stɑl̓əw̓ Pow Wow (Sept. 12-14): The stɑl̓əw̓ Arts and Cultural Society, an Indigenous women-led registered charity, will host the fourth annual stɑl̓əw̓ Pow Wow at the Langley Events Centre. Stɑl̓əw̓ translates “big river” in hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ language, reflecting the importance of the Fraser River and the deep connections within Indigenous communities along its shores.
Alberta
Siksika National Fair Pow Wow (June 27-29): The annual fair has been a beloved tradition that continues to celebrate Siksika culture, music, dance and local arts and crafts, experiences ranging from pageants, rodeos to sports including baseball, golf and basketball.
Calgary Stampede Pow Wow (July 3-13): The Calgary Stampede Pow Wow, one of Canada’s largest competitive Pow Wows, returns to the Scotiabank Saddledome highlighting some of the finest dancers and drummers in North America. Beyond the competition, the event offers several cultural experiences at the Elbow River Camp where visitors can connect with Treaty 7 First Nations’ artists, enjoy traditional foods and participate in cultural demonstrations and storytelling.
Saskatchewan
George Gordon First Nation Annual Competition Pow Wow (June 27-29): Located in the heart of Treaty 4 Territory in Touchwood Hills, George Gordon First Nation will host their annual competition Pow Wow. George Gordon First Nation is a sovereign and self-reliant treaty nation that focuses on building safe, healthy and sustainable communities all while embracing Cree and Saulteaux languages and culture.
Ontario
Wiikwemkoong Annual Cultural Festival (Aug. 2-4): Located on the eastern peninsula of Manitoulin Island, the Wiikwemkoong Nation invites guests to celebrate its rich heritage, cultural pride and community spirit. The Wiikwemkoong Annual Festival is one of the largest and longest running Pow Wow’s in Northern Eastern North America.
Rama First Nation Pow Wow (Aug. 23-24): The Rama First Nation will be celebrating their 40th annual Pow Wow this year on the Chippewa Territory, also known as “the gathering place”. Visitors can explore and learn about the Ojibwe community, traditions and restoring traditional ecological knowledge as it is at the forefront of its vision for the future.
Akwesasne International Pow Wow (Sept. 6-7): On the shores by the beautiful St. Lawrence River, the Akwesasne Nation invite travellers to their vibrant two-day celebration taking place in Cornwall. Visitors can join the cultural gathering that honours Mohawk traditions, Indigenous arts and community.
PEI
Lennox Island Annual Mawi’omi (Aug. 23-24): The Lennox Island Nation welcomes all to celebrate the Mi’kmaw culture through their Lennox Island Annual Mawi’omi, set on the shores of Lennox Island. Each year, the gathering honours the Mi’kmaw culture and tradition.
Newfoundland
Miawpukek First Nation Pow Wow (Aug. 2-3): Miawpukek First Nation will celebrate their 30th annual Pow Wow this year, welcoming visitors to the South Coast of Newfoundland. The community maintains strong cultural practices, language preservation efforts and hosts several events, including the Pow Wow, which celebrates the Mi’lmaq song, dance and spirituality.
For information and a full list of Pow Wows visit www.canadianpowwows.ca.
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