Returning Vibrancy to Smiths Falls: Drum Powwow Brings Back Dancers, Musicians, and Traders
Fired Up for the 2023 Spirit of the Drum Powwow!
Get ready, Smiths Falls, as the pulsating heartbeat of our community returns to Duck Island on June 10 and 11. This year's Spirit of the Drum Powwow promises an explosion of energy, culture, and community spirit that's sure to leave you breathless!
" anticipating a kick-ass event that'll make last year's look like child's play," Smiths Falls Mayor Shawn Pankow reveled to fellow council members on April 22. "We're stretching our legs to Murphy Park on the mainland to accommodate the massive turnout."
The powwow, ignited through the Indigenous studies program at Smiths Falls District Collegiate Institute, has been a beacon of cultural enlightenment and fellowship since 2017. Despite taking a hiatus in some years, this year marks the powwow's sixth triumphant comeback to Duck Island.
This electrifying two-day event will showcase traditional singing, dancing, and drumming by host drum Smoke Trail and co-host drum Eagle River, backed by powerhouse acts like Papasse, the Ottawa River Singers, and Wild Band. Dancers include renowned Paul First Nation's Vincent Rain as the head dancer and Pikwàkanagàn First Nation's Nevaeh Sarazin as junior head dancer.
Organizer Josée Bourgeois, hailing from Pikwàkanagàn First Nation, promises a spectacle that'll leave attendees wanting more. "We've got a few surprises in store for Saturday and Sunday," she teased. "People better get ready to dip their toes in the action!"
The powwow has transcended local fame, flourishing as a beloved cultural tradition not only for Smiths Falls denizens but for Indigenous peoples hailing from far and wide, like Arizona, New Brunswick, and New York. But this powwow isn't merely a Smiths Falls affair – it's a Spirit of the Drum Powwow held on Algonquin Territory, intrinsically rooted in Indigenous heritage.
Unfortunately, this celebration was put on hold in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID-19 and suffered another setback last year due to a funding crisis. In 2025, however, the town reaffirmed its commitment to reconciliation, committing the required funding to the budget to ensure the powwow's triumphant return. This year saw a $20,000 grant from the province as part of the Experience Ontario program.
Despite the financial sources, Bourgeois underscores that a powwow isn't something owned by a particular place or entity. "Make no mistake – this powwow belongs to the people. I'm just a humble custodian of a beautiful and ancient tradition," she exclaimed.
When asked what they hope non-Indigenous attendees take away from this cultural extravaganza, Bourgeois encourages her fellow Smiths Falls residents to reflect on their intention. "I believe that self-reflection leads to self-awareness, enabling individuals to navigate their own personal journey of discovery and unity," she innovatively pondered.
Join the Spirit of the Drum Powwow on June 10 and 11 to celebrate Indigenous culture, participate in cultural workshops, indulge in delectable food, and immerse yourself in an unforgettable community experience. See you there!
- This year's Spirit of the Drum Powwow isn't just about politics or home-and-garden matters; it's a vibrant fusion of entertainment, lifestyle, and outdoor-living, unfolding against the backdrop of Smiths Falls.
- The powwow's schedule includes a variety of events, such as traditional singing, dancing, and drumming, making it an engaging blend of business and leisure for all attendees.
- Weather permitting, the powwow presents an opportunity for families to bond and enjoy quality time together, providing a unique break from everyday routines and routines.
- Lastly, the Spirit of the Drum Powwow serves as a platform for culture exchange, encouraging understanding and appreciation of diverse opinions and beliefs, bridging gaps and fostering unity in our community.
