FNUniv Hosts 45th Annual Spring Celebration Powwow in Regina

Regina, SK – The First Nations University of Canada hosted its 45th Annual Spring Celebration at Regina’s Brandt Centre on April 20th and 21st, marking another successful year for Western Canada’s longest-standing indoor powwow. Co-sponsored by K+S Potash Canada and the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority, the event drew in more than 7,500 attendees, nearly 600 registered dancers, and 24 drum groups, showcasing an impressive display of cultural performances.

The powwow commenced with grand entries at noon and 7:00 pm on Saturday and continued at 11:00 am on Sunday, filling the weekend with contests across 32 different dance categories. Notably, the SaskPower-sponsored singing competition drew top drum groups from across Canada and the United States, with the renowned Blackstone drum group securing the championship title once again.

Morgan Bellegarde, the 2023 Miss FNUniv Princess, presented a Women’s Old Style Jingle Dress Special on Saturday to celebrate her reign. On Sunday, she passed her crown to the new Miss FNUniv Princess, Calista Moser, during the pageant.

The Indigenous Tradeshow brought together nearly 50 vendors showcasing authentic Indigenous arts, crafts, and clothing. Visitors also enjoyed traditional foods like Indian Tacos and soup with bannock, served at the Chili for Children food booth.

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.

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 Powwow Committee extended their thanks to the corporate sponsors and community partners that supported the event. These included Harvard Media, K+S Potash Canada, SIGA, SGI, Hudson’s Bay Foundation, Rawlco Radio, Access Communications, SaskPower, Casino Regina, The Mosaic Company, Tourism Saskatchewan, Co-operators Group, among others. For a complete list of sponsors, please click here.

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.

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.