Another Successful Spring Celebration Powwow for First Nations University of Canada

April 23, 2026

The FNUniv Spring Celebration Powwow was a resounding success, showcasing the vibrant regalia, thirty-five dance categories, an astounding singing contest, numerous dance specials, and a warm atmosphere of community engagement, unity, and celebration. After months of planning, it all came down to hearing the first drumbeat of the first grand entry. The two-day event held on April 18 and 19, 2026, at the Brandt Centre, REAL District, was the 48^th annual celebration for the First Nations University of Canada and the kick-off to FNUniv’s 50^th Anniversary Celebrations.

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.

The estimated attendance surpassed 8,000, a consistent figure reflective of prior years. This total included members of the public, Veterans, Elders, FNUniv staff, students, and dancers and singers from across Canada and the United States. The final count of registered dancers was 790, although many non-registered dancers participated throughout the weekend. The singing competition featured 17 registered drum groups, with two additional non-competing groups travelling from as far as Wisconsin.

Elders and Knowledge Keepers from various regions of Saskatchewan gathered for the morning pipe ceremonies, a tradition that begins each day with prayer. The Brandt Centre was lively as dancers and singers lined up to register for the first grand entry, while the head staff prepared for the busy daily schedules ahead.

Many members of the head staff travelled from outside the province, with individuals coming from as far away as Oklahoma, Arizona, and Minnesota to contribute their expertise to the powwow. This year, the committee invited FNUniv alumni Teddy Bison and Faith McNab Watson to be the Head Dance judges for both the men’s and women’s categories. Both are accomplished powwow dancers and have travelled across North America.

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of FNUniv, alumni, faculty, staff, and students participated in one of three grand entries, with alumni invited based on their year of graduation. The powwow committee facilitated all-women’s and all-men’s alumni dance specials, which garnered a positive response, with 20 women and 10 men registering. Additionally, an Alumni hand drum special was included, allowing participation by any singers with a degree; in total, five registered, with all receiving a monetary prize.

The current Miss FNUniv Ambassador, Aaliyah O’Watch, will continue to fulfill her responsibilities until a new Ambassador for 2026 is selected. Aaliyah expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to maintain her role for as long as possible.

The Indigenous Tradeshow experienced an unprecedented demand this year, selling out in record time, leaving attendees eager for even more opportunities in the future. There is potential to expand the tradeshow area for 2027, aiming to accommodate the growing interest and participation.

Hosting this annual celebration for the University requires an immense amount of commitment and passion. The dedicated 2026 Powwow Committee has poured countless hours into meticulous planning and organization, ensuring that every detail contributes to a memorable and seamless experience for all who attend. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the many volunteers who return year after year, enthusiastically offering their time and skills to help with the various facets of the powwow, making it a truly cherished occasion for the community.

We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our co-presenting sponsors, SIGA and K+S Potash Canada; our Singing Contest sponsor, SaskPower; our Exclusive Radio Partner, Rawlco Radio; and the many organizations across the province that consistently support the Spring Celebration Powwow.