What is the Powwow Trail? A Guide to Treaty 7 Powwows

Powwows are Indigenous celebrations where culture is shared and people gather to connect. They include traditional dances, drumming, and storytelling. Powwows are open to everyone to attend, and respectful attendance involves sitting in designated spectator areas and not touching regalia or participants. 

"A powwow is an immersive social gathering for community and visitors to come together and experience the culture of Indigenous peoples — from vibrant dance competitions, to rodeos, authentic vendors, and food trucks,” says Kelli Morning Bull, Senior Service Designer at Calgary Public Library. “You can stay for the day or the entire weekend. My favourite part is the sounds of the regalia, drumming you can hear from miles away, and the endless frybread tacos."   

There are hundreds of Powwows that happen throughout the summer in North America. They are part of what’s called the Powwow Trail. In Treaty 7, there are five Powwows part of the Powwow Trail — Siksika, Kainai, Tsuut’ina, Piikani, and Îethka Stoney Nakoda Powwows.    

Upcoming Powwow Trail Dates  

Kainai Powwow: July 17 – 19 | Red Crow Park
Tsuut’ina Powwow: July 23 – 26 | Redwood Meadows Fairgrounds
Piikani Powwow: August 14 – 16 | Crow Lodge Arbour
Îethka Stoney Nakoda Powwow: September 4 – 6 | Chief Goodstoney Rodeo Grounds 

Discover more ways to learn about Treaty 7 here.