First Nations University to host spring powwow at Regina's Brandt Centre

Beaders, regalia makers, crafters, dancers, and singers are preparing for the First Nations University of Canada’s spring powwow at Regina’s Brandt Centre.

The gathering marks the official start of the powwow season, offering a high‑profile platform to celebrate Indigenous culture and to showcase traditional music, dance, and artistry. Celebrating Indigenous culture, the powwow kicks off the season for dancers, singers, and artisans.

Participants include skilled beaders who stitch intricate designs onto regalia, artisans crafting ceremonial garments, and performers who will sing and dance for audiences of all ages.

Hosted in the Brandt Centre—a multipurpose arena in downtown Regina—the event provides ample space for large drum circles and on‑stage performances, a setting that accommodates both community members and visitors. The Brandt Centre will host the university’s first spring powwow of 2024.

Organizers anticipate that the powwow will draw thousands of attendees, underscoring its role as a major cultural fixture in Saskatchewan ^[1].

Beyond entertainment, the powwow supports Indigenous entrepreneurs, creates seasonal employment for local vendors, and reinforces the university’s commitment to preserving First Nations heritage.

Scheduled for the spring of 2024, the university’s season‑opening powwow aligns with other regional celebrations, strengthening inter‑community ties across the province.

The university’s powwow program began in 2015 and has grown each year, attracting performers from neighboring reserves and urban Indigenous groups.

Local schools have incorporated powwow workshops into their curricula, allowing students to learn drumming techniques and traditional song structures ahead of the event.

Food vendors will offer Indigenous cuisine, including bannock, wild‑rice soup, and bison stew, providing attendees with a taste of regional culinary traditions.

Social media buzz shows a flurry of posts using the hashtag #FNUCPowwow, with community members sharing photos of their regalia preparations and rehearsal schedules.

Local hotels report increased bookings as visitors travel from across the province to attend the powwow, bolstering Regina’s tourism during the spring months.

Organizers hope the success of this season‑opening powwow will inspire additional Indigenous cultural events at the university throughout the year.