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Overview
Powwows are cultural celebrations of pride for people of all ages. These dynamic events showcase the drums, dance, regalia, food and crafts of Indigenous peoples and Nations across Turtle Island, the land otherwise known as North America.
The event is generally run by the Master of Ceremonies (MC), who works to keep the powwow organized and running smoothly.
Powwows carry forward the tradition of embracing all family, friends, and guests each year. Authentic vendors, artwork, crafts, traditional clothing, and concessions will be available at each powwow.
Most begin with Sunrise Ceremonies at 6 a.m., followed by the lighting of the sacred fire and set up. Grand Entry is usually held Saturday and Sunday at 1 p.m.
All are welcome!
2025 NB powwow schedule
All are welcome. Alcohol and drugs are not permitted at any powwow. Please listen to the powwow MC for protocol on taking photos/videos during the event. Information may be added, changed, or updated without notice. Approximate address information has been included where available. To report an error, please contact [email protected].
Last updated: 2025-04-02
Date | Community | Location | Contact |
June 14-15 | Sitansisk (St. Mary’s) | St. Mary’s Old Reserve 510 Union Street Fredericton |
Nicole Derrico 506-458-9511 |
July 5-6 | Oinpegitjoig L’Noeigati (Pabineau) | Flying Eagle Memorial Powwow Grounds 1290 Pabineau Falls Road Pabineau Falls |
Phyllis Grant 506-548-9211 |
July 12-13 | Welamukotuk (Oromocto) | Sir Douglas Hazen Park 15 Wharf Road Oromocto |
Charlotte Thurber 506-262-2442 |
July 19-20 | Natoaganeg (Eel Ground) | Natoaganeg Powwow Grounds Alexander Road & Riverview Road East Natoaganeg |
Victoria Paul 506-627-4600 |
July 26-27 | Neqotkuk (Tobique) | Mudwaas Park 13094 Route 105 Neqotkuk |
Julian Moulton 506-426-0667 |
July 26-27 | Metepenagiag (Red Bank) | Metepenagiag Heritage Park 2156 Micmac Road Metepenagiag |
Kevin Levi 506-424-0274 |
August 16-17 | Ugpi’ganjig (Eel River Bar) | Aboriginal Heritage Garden End of Route 280 / Cove Road Eel River Cove |
D Labillois 506-686-0016 |
August 23-24 | Esgenoôpetitj (Burnt Church) | Esgenoôpetitj Powwow Grounds End of Diggle Point Road Esgenoôpetitj |
Starleen Mitchell 506-623-8841 |
August 30-31 | Elsipogtog (Big Cove) | Elsipogtog Powwow Grounds 1072 Route 510 Lower Main River |
Angeline Purcell 506-523-5479 |
September 6-7 | Tjipogtotjg (Buctouche) | Buctouche Powwow Grounds 14 Reserve Road Bouctouche |
Cody Clair 506-521-0846 |
September 13-14 | Bilijk (Kingsclear) | Bilijk Powwow Grounds End of Church Street Bilijk |
Shayna Boudreau 506-429-8386 |
October 25-26 | Menahqesk (Saint John) | TD Station 99 Station Street Saint John |
Double Curve Media (Facebook) |
Powwow tips and guidelines
Be on time
Powwows run on a tight schedule, so be on time to events to avoid missing important moments.
Dress appropriately
To remain respectful of the culture and ceremony, make sure to dress modestly. If the weather is hot, a T-shirt and shorts are okay.
It’s regalia, not costume
A dancer’s regalia is how they dress their spirit. It’s a special piece of handmade clothing that holds spiritual significance to the dancer and is adorned with beading that has taken many hours (or even years) to assemble. Be respectful and always ask before taking photos or touching!
Respect the Opening Prayer
The Grand Entry and the Opening Prayer signal the beginning of the powwow. The Opening Prayer is always performed by an Elder, and the drum takes center stage as the most important part.
Ask before taking photos
There are times during the powwow that shouldn’t be photographed, such as ceremonies and prayers. Please ask permission before snapping.
Eagle feathers
Eagle feathers are sacred items within North American Indigenous culture. Each eagle feather has its own spirit and being able to wear and be a guardian of that feather(s) is a great honour. If you see an eagle feather that has fallen from one of the dancers, please do not pick it up or take a picture of it. Notify the MC, powwow host, or a Head Dancer as soon as possible. The powwow will be paused while a special song/dance is done around the feather and then it can be picked up.
Do not bring drugs or alcohol
A powwow is a cultural event, not a party. Alcohol, drugs, and firearms are never allowed on the premises. Drugs and alcohol are not part of Indigenous culture.
Pay attention to announcers
The MC will be talking throughout the event, so make sure to listen for when to sit, when to stand, and when to join in the dance!
Don’t be afraid to ask questions
A powwow is a spiritual experience for those performing, but you may not fully understand what’s going on if you’re new to these events. If you have any questions, just ask!
Don’t forget your tobacco
Offering tobacco to an Elder or dancer before a question is a sign of tremendous respect.
Browse the local vendors
When you’re buying from the artisans, you’re supporting Indigenous families and their communities.
Kids are welcome
Powwows are community and family events, so they’re a great place to bring children to introduce them to Indigenous culture.
More information
Destination Indigenous
Things to consider at a pow wow.