Drums, dancing and stories will fill TD Station as the Menahqesk Powwow returns to Saint John.
Mayor Donna Reardon said last year’s Powwow drew more than 7,000 people and featured over 100 Indigenous vendors and six drum groups.
She said the event gave residents a chance to connect with Wolastoqey traditions and reconciliation.
“I think there was a real opportunity there for learning for citizens, for seeing the culture, and for hearing some of the stories and just be immersed in it,” Reardon said.
“It’s part of our journey of reconciliation as well. So we want to just continue to move forward with that journey.”
Powwow director Possesom Paul, who is also CEO of Double Curve Media, said the event is designed to be inclusive.
He explained that intertribal dances invite everyone to join in, regardless of background.
“Intertribal means people that come from a drum and all societies, all cultures have a history of drum because that heartbeat is the first thing that you hear before we’re born into this world,” Paul said.
This year’s theme is celebrating youth, with contests, prizes and a candy dance for children.
Organizers also reminded attendees to follow cultural protocols, including not touching dancers’ regalia and respecting announcements about when photography is permitted.
The Powwow is happening on Saturday at TD Station. Vendors open at 10 a.m., the grand entry begins at noon, and the closing ceremony is scheduled for 5 p.m. Admission is free.
