ENAGB Cultural Festival & Competition Pow Wow

About the Pow Wow

Our Cultural Festival and Competition Pow Wow is a gathering rooted in tradition, bringing together communities to celebrate Indigenous identity through dance, music, art, and storytelling. Our theme this year is “honouring the voices of the future”.

Pow Wows are more than events – they are spaces of connection, ceremony, and cultural expression. They provide an opportunity for Indigenous communities to come together, share teachings, and celebrate traditions that have been passed down through generations.

This event features:

• Competitive dancing across multiple categories
• Drum groups from across the region
• Indigenous arts and crafts vendors
• Cultural teachings and community connection

We welcome all guests to join us in a good way.

Land Acknowledgement

We acknowledge that this gathering takes place on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishinaabe, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee, and the Wendat peoples, now home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities.

What to Expect

Visitors can enjoy a full day of programming and activities for all ages:

• Dance Competitions
  • Experience the skill, artistry, and dedication of dancers competing in a variety of categories. Each dancer’s regalia reflects identity, history, and personal story.
• Drumming & Singing
  • The drum is often referred to as the heartbeat of the community. Throughout the day, you’ll hear powerful songs performed by drum groups, each carrying deep cultural meaning.
• Vendor Marketplace
  • Browse a curated selection of Indigenous arts and crafts, including beadwork, jewelry, clothing, and handmade goods.
• Food & Refreshments
  • Enjoy a variety of food options available on-site.
• Family-Friendly Environment
  • This is a welcoming, inclusive event for all ages – everyone is encouraged to attend and learn.

Event Schedule

Saturday & Sunday

• 12:00 PM – Grand Entry

• What is Grand Entry?
  • Grand Entry is the official opening of each Pow Wow session, where dancers, drummers, and participants enter the arena in a specific order. It is a powerful and meaningful moment that sets the tone for the day.

Dance Competition Categories

• Tiny Tots 5 and Under
• Boys & Girls 6 – 11 yrs
• Teen Boys & Girls 12 – 17 yrs
• Men’s and Women’s 18 – 23 yrs
• Men’s and Women’s 24 – 29 yrs
• Men’s and Women’s 30 – 49
• Golden Age 50+


Specific categories and prize breakdowns will be available on-site or in the official program.

Head Staff

Host Drum: The Boyz and Battle Nation

Master of Ceremonies (MC): Hal Eagletail, Amos keye Jr, Lennox Cote

Arena Director: Jordan Whiteye

Head Judge: Talon whiteye & Deanne Hupfield

SINGER/DANCER REGISTRATION

We are honoured to welcome drum groups who will share songs throughout the weekend. Drummers, singers and dancers are able to register at Woodbine Park. 

Open

Friday 3 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

No exceptions after 11:30 a.m Saturday.

Visitor

Information

• Admission
  • $20 General Admission, tickets can be purchased online or in person.

• Parking & Transportation
  • Limited parking is available nearby. Visitors are encouraged to use public transit where possible.

• Nearest Subway Stations
  • Woodbine Station or Coxwell Station (Line 2), with connecting bus or streetcar service to Woodbine Park.

• Seating
  • We are going to have 1500 seats however guests are welcome to bring their own chairs.

• Accessibility
  • The event grounds are accessible. If you have specific accessibility needs, please contact powwow@enagb-iya.ca in advance.

Getting There

Woodbine Park is accessible by public transit and is located in Toronto’s east end:

• TTC routes service the area along Queen Street East
• Bicycle access and nearby walking paths available
• Please plan ahead and allow extra time for parking and travel

Pow Wow
Etiquette

Pow Wows are both cultural and spiritual gatherings. While they are welcoming to all, it is important to recognize that many aspects of a Pow Wow carry deep meaning. We ask all visitors to help maintain a respectful, safe, and inclusive environment by following these guidelines:

During Grand Entry & Honour Songs

Grand Entry marks the official opening of each session and is a significant and ceremonial moment.

• Please stand and remove your hats during Grand Entry, Flag Songs, and Honour Songs
• Remain quiet and attentive during these important moments
• Follow the direction of the MC at all times
• Do not walk across the arena during these songs


Photography & Recording

We understand that many visitors want to capture the experience, but it’s important to do so respectfully.

• Always ask permission before taking photos of dancers, especially close-up shots
• Some songs or ceremonies may not allow photography – please listen for announcements
• Avoid interrupting dancers while they are preparing or participating
• Be mindful and respectful when sharing photos on social media


Respect for Regalia

Regalia is not a costume – it is deeply personal and often holds cultural, spiritual, and familial significance.

• Do not touch regalia without permission
• Do not refer to regalia as a “costume”
• Be aware of your surroundings to avoid brushing against or stepping on regalia
• Treat all dancers and their regalia with respect


In the Arena

The arena is considered a sacred space.

• Do not enter the dance arena unless invited by the MC
• Intertribal dances are open to the public – listen for announcements inviting participation
• If you join an intertribal dance, follow the lead of others and move in a respectful way
• Stay off the arena floor during competitions unless authorized


General Respect

• Listen to and follow all guidance from the MC and event staff
• Show respect to Elders, dancers, drummers, vendors, and all attendees
• Alcohol, drugs, and disruptive behaviour are not permitted on the grounds
• Help keep the area clean by using garbage and recycling bins


Children & Families

• Children are welcome and should be supervised at all times
• This is a family-friendly event, please help us maintain a safe and welcoming space for everyone

Miigwech (thank you) for helping us create a respectful and welcoming Pow Wow experience for all.

Vendors

Our Pow Wow features a curated selection of Indigenous arts and crafts vendors offering unique, handmade items. A variety of food vendors will also be on-site throughout the weekend, providing meals, snacks, and refreshments for attendees to enjoy. Information booths from various organizations will be present on the grounds, offering resources, sharing information, and connecting with the community.

Interested in becoming a vendor or hosting a special? Email powwow@enagb-iya.ca for more information.

Sponsors
& Partners

We thank our partners and sponsors for supporting this event.

• Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinabek
• Matawa First Nations
• Atura Power

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need to be Indigenous to attend?
  • No, all are welcome to attend and learn.

• What should I bring?
  • Lawn chairs, water, sunscreen, and cash for vendors are recommended.

• What should I wear?
  • Dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather.

• Can I bring my own food?
  • You may bring a small bag/cooler for snacks and drinks.

• Are pets allowed?
  • Pets are not permitted on the Pow Wow grounds, with the exception of certified service animals.

• Will there be alcoholic drinks?
  • No, alcohol or drugs are permitted on pow wow grounds.

• Is this a rain or shine event?
  • Yes this event is rain or shine.

Contact Us

For general inquiries, vendor information, or media requests, please contact: powwow@enagb-iya.ca

We Look Forward

to Seeing You

We invite you to join us for a weekend of culture, community, and celebration. Whether you are coming to support, learn, or simply experience the Pow Wow, we are honoured to welcome you.