FNUniv’s 45th Annual Spring Celebration Draws Crowds in Regina

This past weekend marked the First Nations University of Canada’s 45th Annual Spring Celebration Powwow at the Brandt Centre, REAL District in Regina, Saskatchewan. Attendees gathered on April 20th and 21st for what’s renowned as Western Canada’s longest-running indoor powwow. Each day, doors opened at 9:00 am for the two-day event.

The festivities commenced with the first grand entry on Saturday, April 20th, at noon, co-presented by K+S Potash Canada and the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA). Throughout the weekend, grand entries were held at 12:00 pm and 7:00 pm on Saturday and at 1:00 pm on Sunday. The event featured dance and singing contests, with the finals concluding the weekend.

With 32 dance category competitions, family and committee dance specials, attendees had the opportunity to witness the spectacular styles and regalia of the First Nations culture. The singing competition, sponsored by SaskPower, showcased top-class singers and drum groups from across Canada and the United States.

During the event, Morgan Bellegarde, the 2023 Miss FNUniv Princess, transferred her crown at the Miss FNUniv Princess Pageant on Sunday, April 21st, at 12:00 pm. She also hosted a Women’s Old Style Jingle Dress Special on Saturday evening to honor her reign.

The Indigenous Tradeshow offered authentic Indigenous arts, crafts, and clothing from Indigenous artisans and businesses. Attendees could also enjoy bannock or a smoothie from the food vendors while supporting Indigenous artisans and businesses.

Cherish Jean-Baptiste, the Spring Celebration Powwow Interim Chair, expressed the significance of the Celebration Powwow in connecting the university community with the larger community through the sharing of First Nation’s culture, traditions, songs, and dances.

The 2023 celebration attracted more than 8,000 visitors, over 500 registered dancers, and 17 drum groups, indicating continued growth for the 2024 event.

Wristbands for admission were available for purchase, with a 2-day admission wristband priced at $18 and daily passes at $13. Children five and under could attend for free. For those unable to attend in person, Access Communications provided a LIVE Broadcast on Sunday, April 21st from 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm.

Melissa Shepherd, Manager of Indigenous Relations at K+S Potash Canada, expressed the company’s commitment to supporting the powwow and fostering meaningful relationships with Indigenous Peoples.

The Powwow Committee expressed gratitude to long-time corporate sponsors and media partners, including K+S Potash Canada, SIGA, SaskPower, the Regina Police Service, the Regina Public Schools, Creeland Mini Mart, Access Communications, and Harvard Media, as well as new partners joining this year.

SIGA President and CEO Zane Hansen emphasized the organization’s pride in sponsoring the 45th Annual First Nations University of Canada Spring Celebration, reflecting their mission to honor First Nation hospitality, traditions, and customs while reinvesting profits back into Saskatchewan.