Get ready for adventure as we look at this summer’s lineup of powwows and festivals in Quebec. From mesmerizing dance performances to rhythmic drumming, delicious cuisine and vibrant art, these gatherings and events offer a great opportunity to celebrate and enjoy an unforgettable summer experience.
POWWOWS
Lac Simon Powwow
July 15-16
Enjoy the rich Algonquin culture at the Lac Simon Powwow, where drumming, singing and dance performances take centre stage, showcasing the beauty of their traditions.
Powwow Odanak
July 21-23
Experience the warm hospitality of the Abenaki people at the Odanak Powwow, featuring artisan booths, smoked fish, ash beating and sagamite, as well as basket-weaving demonstrations and fabrication.
Pessamit Traditional Powwow
July 28-30
Immerse yourself in Innu culture at the Pessamit Powwow, featuring dance competitions, traditional food and cultural workshops.
Manawan Powwow
July 28-30
The Manawan Powwow provides a welcoming experience with diverse ceremonies, drumming and singing groups, and a variety of food and craft vendors, making it an ideal destination in late July.
30th Annual Gesgapegiag Mawiomi Powwow
July 29-30
Join the Mi’kmaq community of Gesgapegiag for their milestone powwow, honouring the drum and their roots, and featuring their All Around the Drum contest.
Listuguj Annual Traditional Powwow
August 5-6
Enjoy the energy of the Mi’gmaq community at Listuguj along with a sacred fire and sunrise ceremony at 6 am each morning, which promises to be a memorable experience for all.
Timiskaming First Nation Powwow
August 12-13
Journey to Timiskaming First Nation for a vibrant celebration of Anishinaabe culture, including drumming, dance, traditional regalia and delicious cuisine.
Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam Powwow
August 12-13
Join the community in Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam for their annual powwow, and experience the cultural richness of the Innu people through dance, music and art.
Cacouna Powwow
August 19-20
Join us for continuous performances by two powwow drum groups, Muskrat Singers and Redtail Spirit Singers, along with dancers, diverse food services, and a variety of workshops and demonstrations.
Kanesatake Powwow
August 25-27
With on-site craft vendors, food counters and great entertainment, you can celebrate Mohawk culture at Kanesatake. This event highlights Mohawk culture through dance, song and fine crafts.
Wôlinak Powwow
August 25-27
An annual family event featuring a wide range of activities including dances, songs, legends, crafts and musical performances, offering a unique opportunity to witness the convergence of Abenaki and North American Amerindian cultures in special moments of celebration.
Wemotaci Powwow
September 2-3
Celebrate the rich traditions of the Atikamekw community at the Wemotaci Powwow, featuring traditional dances, drumming and cultural exhibits.
Akwesasne International Powwow
September 9-10
Stay tuned for details about this international powwow, which brings together diverse Indigenous cultures for a spectacular showcase of dance, music and cultural exchange.
Otsenhákta Student Centre Powwow
September 15
People from all backgrounds are welcome to join the Otsenhákta Student Centre’s Powwow, a celebration of First Nations, Inuit and Métis students at Concordia University. Here diverse Indigenous cultures come together through singing, dancing, performances and the opportunity to connect, learn and support Indigenous entrepreneurs by purchasing handmade crafts and natural products, in a child-friendly environment.
McGill Annual Powwow
September 22
McGill University’s Annual Powwow is a lively celebration featuring Aboriginal music, dancing, arts and crafts, information kiosks and Lacrosse demonstrations. The Montreal urban Aboriginal community, McGill community, and Aboriginal youth from the Greater Montreal area are invited to attend this day of sharing and celebration in late September.
FESTIVALS AND EVENTS
Atalukan Tales and Legends Festival
August 1-31
Taking place mainly on the shores of Lac-Saint-Jean in the Saguenay, this festival also travels to several neighbouring communities. It is a space for exchange and sharing between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.
Innu Nikamu Festival
August 1-6
Founded in 1984, the Innu Nikamu Festival celebrates Indigenous music, art and creativity, and fosters connections between different Indigenous nations. It welcomes non-Indigenous attendees to participate in the festivities, making it one of the largest Indigenous music and art festivals in North America.
Montreal First Peoples’ Festival
August 8-17
An emblematic event celebrating the artistic revival and cultural heritage of Indigenous peoples from the Americas and around the globe, this 10-day multidisciplinary festival transforms Montreal’s Place des Festivals into a vibrant hub of artistic activities, featuring Indigenous films, captivating concerts and a diverse array of Aboriginal art forms.
Innucadie Stories and Legends Festival
August 10-13
Set amidst a backdrop of taiga, rivers, beaches and swim-friendly waters in Natashquan-Nutashkuan, this event celebrates the work of Gilles Vigneault, Acadian culture, Joséphine Bacon’s contributions, and the artistic creations of the Innu people, who prioritize oral tradition in knowledge transmission.
Kwahiatonhk: Salon du Livre des Premières Nations
November 16-19
The only event of its kind in Canada, the First Nations Book Fair in Quebec City showcases the talents of Indigenous authors, featuring panel discussions, public interviews, workshops, poetry breakfasts and literary performances.
So, grab your calendar and explore a summer filled with cultural richness and excitement. Whether you’re a passionate dancer, music enthusiast or food lover, these powwows and festivals have something for everyone. From Saguenay Lac-Saint-Jean to Montreal, Gaspesie to Abitibi-Témiscamingue, the beat of the drum is calling you to join in.