Syllabics
Regina, SK (Treaty 4 Territory) — The First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv) will kick off its 50th anniversary celebrations this weekend with its Annual Spring Celebration Powwow, taking place April 18–19, 2026, at the Brandt Centre in the REAL District.
The powwow brings together dancers, drum groups, and community members from across the country for a vibrant weekend of celebration, connection, and cultural expression. This year’s gathering carries added significance as it marks the beginning of FNUniv’s milestone anniversary year.
In 2025, the powwow welcomed more than 8,000 attendees, nearly 700 dancers, 19 drum groups, and over 130 volunteers. Attendance is expected to exceed those numbers this year.
“The powwow has become an important part of our community,” said Bonnie Rockthunder, Chair of the FNUniv Spring Celebration Powwow Committee. “It’s a time for people to come together, reconnect, and celebrate who we are. We’re proud to continue this tradition and welcome everyone to join us.”
The tradition dates back to 1979, when students at the Saskatchewan Indian Federated College hosted the first Cultural Week and powwow. What began as a student-led initiative has grown into one of the largest university-hosted powwows in Canada and remains a central part of FNUniv’s identity.
“This powwow is a place for our people to come together—to pray, to celebrate, and to carry our teachings forward,” said Roland Kaye, FNUniv Elder’s Helper. “It’s important that our young people see this, learn from it, and feel that connection to who they are.”
Throughout the weekend, attendees can experience grand entries, dance competitions, and the singing contest, along with an Indigenous tradeshow featuring artists and vendors.
As part of FNUniv’s 50th anniversary, alumni will be featured in Grand Entry and recognized through special dance categories and an alumni singing contest.
The weekend begins with the Alumni and Powwow Volunteer Appreciation Supper on Friday, April 17 at the FNUniv Regina campus.
Grand Entry will take place Saturday at 12:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., and Sunday at 12:00 p.m.
This year’s powwow is guided by an experienced head staff team, including Masters of Ceremonies Clifton Goodwill, Jackson Rolling Thunder Tahuka, and Sanford Strongarm, Arena Directors Donovan Abbey and Vee Whitehorse, and Head Singing Judge Everet Sayer.
The event is made possible through the support of its partners, led by PhD Title Sponsors K + S Potash Canada and the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA), along with contributions from Tourism Saskatchewan, Casino Regina, Mosaic, Co-operators, and other valued partners.
SaskPower is supporting the Singing Contest, which brings together top drum groups competing for a grand prize of $15,000.
The powwow is open to the public, and all are welcome to attend respectfully.
👉 For more information, visit fnunivpowwow.ca
Media Information:
Media Release
Download Media Release here.
Media Registration
Media are required to complete a registration form, available online at https://www.fnunivpowwow.ca/contact or on-site. Forms can be emailed to springpowwow@firstnationsuniversity.ca
Media Access & Pass Pickup
Media are invited to cover the event. Media passes and packages will be available for pickup on-site:
• Friday, April 17 from 6:00–8:00 p.m. (Lower Level)
• Saturday, April 18 from 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. (Main Entrance) and 2:30–4:30 p.m. (Lower Level)
For more information, including the full schedule, visit https://www.fnunivpowwow.ca.
Media Contacts:
Bonnie Rockthunder, Chair – 204-292-3253
Kristin Francis, Director of Communications – 306-541-2494
For campus locations, maps and hours of operation, please visit our contact us page.
(the good path through life)
(the good path through life)