The Yaqan Nukiy’s 32nd annual pow wow is back this weekend with an extended schedule and focus on intergenerational wellness.
Held in the Yaqan Nukiy School gym, this year’s celebration kicks off with a grand entry at 7 p.m. on Friday evening. The pow wow continues with two sessions on Saturday, at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., and another on Sunday again at 1 p.m.
“This year, we decided to bring back the Friday evening with the hope of providing more opportunity for culture and togetherness,” said Jared Basil, chair of the pow wow committee.
The pow wow, which paused during the pandemic and restarted two years ago, continues to grow with hundreds expected to attend.
Dancers will travel to participate from all over North America, ranging in age from tiny tots (0–6 years) to golden age elders (65+). Performances will include grass, jingle, team, and hoop dances.
A vibrant mix of drum groups will serve as the heartbeat of the dance, including the Grammy-nominated Young Spirit and the respected Eya Hey Nakoda.
“When you have those names headlining the pow wow, it peaks a lot of interest,” Basil said. “And I think that's drawing a lot of attention, so I would anticipate a couple of hundred dancers and a pretty big turnout.”
More than 20 vendors — including food trucks and artisan booths — are confirmed for one of the largest markets in recent years, set to fill the school grounds over the weekend too.
The theme of intergenerational wellness has resonated deeply with the community, leading to increased involvement and support. Basil said his dedicated volunteer committee of eight has shown willingness to take on a lot of added responsibility.
“Servitude in our communities, historically, is a pretty high honour. The pow wow wouldn't be what it is if it wasn't for that,” he said. “If you don't have a strong, effective committee ready to undertake that process, then things fall through the cracks.”
The wider community response has also been “overwhelming,” as individuals have stepped up to contribute and fund raise on their own initiative.
“It's unfortunate that there have been times, throughout colonial history, that Indigenous people have almost been defined by trauma or intergenerational trauma,” said Basil. “With intergenerational wellness, I think there's a lot of responsibility from the community to want to breathe life into that theme."
Basil emphasized the importance of the pow wow not only as a cultural gathering, but as a symbol of reconciliation and relationship-building with the Creston Valley.
“It’s an opportunity to articulate our ability to be gracious hosts,” he said. “As Ktunaxa people, historically, we've always been very welcoming people. It displays our ability to be a good neighbour.”
The event is open to the public, and Basil encourages people from all walks of life to partake in the event in the spirit of mutual respect.
“This is an opportunity to exemplify who we are as Yaqan Nukiy people,” said Basil. “Throughout colonial history, we haven't always been granted the opportunity to practice our culture. We look forward to this pow wow every year to showcase who we are in a meaningful way.”
