First powwow in Saint John, N.B., this weekend [Video]

This weekend brings Menahqesk PowWow 2024 to Saint John, N.B., the first traditional powwow to be held in the city.

Thousands were in attendance Saturday afternoon for the grand entry, which featured dancers and drumming inside TD Station.

“From looking at the number of people who were here earlier, I can safely say we were close to over 4,000 people that attended for the very first powwow,” says Possesom Paul, CEO of Double Curve Media, a key organizer of the gathering. “We’re really here, finally!”

As many as 10,000 visitors are expected to travel to Saint John for the powow, which began planning in late 2023. The event continues, with free admission, until Sunday.

Saturday evening’s activities will take place under the banner, ‘Saturday Night Live’ and feature a hand drum competition, alongside intertribal and social dances.

Sunday’s grand entry will take place at 1 p.m.

A market featuring more than 40 Indigenous craft and food vendors …