Across the vast landscapes of Turtle Island, summer brings a kaleidoscope of colours, sounds, and movements that signal the arrival of Pow Wow season. These community gatherings are deeply rooted in ancient Indigenous song and dance traditions, but went through decades of suppression when our laws prohibited sacred ceremonies. The resurgence of Pow Wows reflects the cultural revitalization that’s happening across Canada; as Indigenous peoples reclaim, celebrate and share their unique heritage.
While Pow Wow traditions vary between communities, most center on a specific group of culturally significant dances that have been shared for generations and across vast distances. Kicked off by a Grand Entry procession, spectators are asked to rise as drum groups create a deep, heartbeat-like rhythm and dancers in elaborate, handmade regalia follow flag bearers
and Elders into the arena.
Following prayers, each distinctive dance is introduced as a social, display or competition performance. The Men’s Grass Dance, with origins in ancient land blessing ceremonies, features a sinuous flexibility that mimics the act of flattening the swaying prairie grass. The Women’s Fancy Shawl Dance began in the 1930s, and celebrates women’s emergence on the dance floor.
Its whirling, high-energy leaps symbolize a butterfly escaping its cocoon, with the shawl representing the butterfly’s wings.
Often spanning multiple days, the cultural festivals are more than drums and song; they also highlight Indigenous culinary traditions, artisanal crafts and might include Indigenous sports or even contemporary music. Lisa Meeches, Executive Director of the Manito Ahbee Festival in Winnipeg describes these family-friendly, inclusive gatherings as “icebreakers” where visitors can gain cross-cultural understanding. “It doesn’t matter what nation you come from, Pow Wows are an accessible way to learn more about your Indigenous neighbours,” she says.
While inspiring and entertaining, attending a Pow Wow is more than watching an interesting dance. Instead, participating in a Pow Wow is about immersing yourself in the energy and spirit of the event; which means witnessing Indigenous peoples’ healing and joy, and honouring their enduring traditions.
This respect is also woven into Pow Wow protocol. For example, each dancer asks permission before learning a specific dance and is then formally welcomed into the dance circle, a practice that preserves the sacredness of each dance across generations. At the same time, there are less restrictive All Nations and Intertribal dances. These dances open the floor to visitors and
Indigenous individuals who might be reconnecting with their culture who are “called by the drum,” says Meeches.
While the nuances of Indigenous culture can seem complex, most Pow Wow etiquette is about straightforward respect and participation: ask before taking photographs or touching eagle feathers and other regalia, listen to the announcers’ directions and ask questions. Guests are also told to leave drugs or alcohol at home and to dress modestly.
“Pow Wows are where we can showcase the best of who we are,” says Meeches, highlighting their role is not just as sacred celebrations but as vital bridges between cultures.