Powwows

Powwows occur year round in Kenora, but primarily take place outdoors in the spring and summer months.

Follow Grand Council Treaty #3 on Facebook for a list of the Powwows in the Treaty #3 area.

Powwow etiquette

Everyone is welcome to attend a Powwow. Please follow the powwow etiquette and cultural customs when in attendance.

Powwows are sacred ceremonial rites and we ask that you acknowledge and respect these activities by observing all instructions provided by the M.C. (Master of Ceremonies)

• Please stand during all ceremonial songs and dances.
• These include the Grand Entry, Flag Songs, Veteran Songs, Honour Songs, and any other songs that the M.C. designates as ceremonial songs.
• During ceremonial songs and dances, please remove all headdresses unless it has an eagle feather in it.
• Do not take any photos, video or sound recordings of ceremonies without asking permission from the person or group you are recording.
• Note: Some areas of Turtle Island prohibit recording of ceremonies.
• Respect the Elders, singers, dancers, drummers, and the powwow staff and committee.
• The dancers wear regalia while they are dancing, not “costumes.” People should not touch the regalia or take photos unless they receive permission from the dancer.
• Appropriate dress and behaviour are required in the dance area.
• Do not pick up any pieces of regalia or feathers you find on the ground. Please alert a dancer or a Powwow Committee member. This is very important, as there are ceremonies that must take place to retrieve certain items that has fallen from a dancer's regalia.
• The sacred fire is a place to examine your thoughts and to pray. Do not turn your back to the Sacred Fire. Moreover, do not throw anything in the fire other than sacred medicines. Follow the instructions of the Fire keeper and his helpers. Do not talk loudly around the fire. Tobacco will be available at the fire and people who pray offer small amounts to the creator.
• Do not allow children to run around the dance area. Horseplay is not tolerated.
• Do not bring drugs or alcohol to a powwow and do not come to a powwow if you are intoxicated.
• Dogs are not permitted around the powwow area. If you are travelling with your pet, please seek out a Powwow Committee member for advice on where dogs can be walked.
• Bring your own chairs and not sit on someone else's chair unless you ask permission. Tents with chairs are reserved for elders, dancers and drummers.