Kamloopa Pow Wow set to begin next week

KAMLOOPS – Just over a week away, the annual Kamloopa Pow Wow is set to take over Kamloops in what is considered on the largest events of its kind in Western Canada.

The local pow wow, now in its 36th year, celebrates First Nations culture and traditions. Taking place July 31 through Aug. 2, the event features drumming, song, and dance all in custom, often handmade regalia. Vendors are set up on site as well.

In addition to be a culturally-charged event, the pow wow is also a major money event with over $77,000 in prizes handed out.

One of the weekend highlights is the drumming contest. Traditional drummers participate in the event that often caps an entire summer of travelling and performing. The competition can be quite intense with Kamloopa offering a $10,000 grand prize.

Upwards of 20,000 people attend the three-day event every year, which takes place at the Tk'emlups Indian Band Special Events Facility, located on Highway 5, alongside the South Thompson River.

The Grand Entry, the time when each group enters the central area in a powerful display of dress and dance, starts at 7 p.m. on Friday, July 31, at noon and 7 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 1, and noon on Sunday, Aug. 2. Events can easily run past midnight.

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