Aamjiwnaang First Nation is hosting their annual Pow Wow this weekend at Bear Park.
“Our Pow Wow is coming up on Saturday and Sunday and it’s our 61st annual this year,” said Jamie Maness, Community Services Coordinator for Aamjiwnaang First Nation.
Tickets are $10 for anyone ages 13-54, and $5 for youth ages 6-12. Seniors over 55, and children under five are free, and can be purchased on site, with cash. Gates open at 10 a.m.
“Parking is available but it gets pretty packed, pretty fast,” Maness noted.
Grand Entry happens at Noon and 6 p.m. on Saturday as well as Noon on Sunday.
“It’s hard to say exactly how many dancers will be competing but in past years there have been up to 200,” explained Maness.
Dancers compete in age categories across dance styles highlighting Fancy Dress, Grass, Jingle Dress and Traditional. Dancers are supported by drummers throughout the entire event.
“We have seven or eight drummers, and we have some groups that come in,” explained Maness.
Visitors are reminded to bring picnic items, lawn chairs, umbrellas and blankets for the park and pack cash for on site purchases.
“The vendors do accept debit-visa but for the most part, I would suggest paying cash. We don't have any bank machines on site,” said Maness.
This family-friendly event is open to all and is a drug and alcohol free space.