Montreal

Despite rain, hundreds gather for 26th annual powwow in Kahnawake

Not only was it the 26th annual powwow, the outdoor event happened on Kahnawake’s 300th anniversary.

Event focuses on building friendship and celebrating First Nations culture

Rain didn't dampen the spirits of hundreds of people who took part in Kahnawake's powwow on Saturday. This year is special, marking the 26th annual powwow and the 300th anniversary of the Mohawk territory.

The event continues on Sunday, and may once again be quite rainy, but organizer Lori Beauchamp isn't fazed by the weather.

"Everyone knows, bring your poncho, bring your umbrella, be prepared for anything," she said.

The powwow is a celebration of life and friendships through song and dance. If there's more rain on Sunday, the scheduled dance competition will be moved into a large tent.

Aside from song and dance portions of the event, dozens of kiosques were set up with food, art and crafts celebrating First Nations culture.

"We are inclusive, we want to show people that part of our cultural heritage... and the pow wow is for making new friends," Beauchamp said.