The Songhees Nation, with support from the City of Victoria, invites Greater Victoria residents to the fifth annual South Island Powwow on Wednesday, September 30, 2026 at Royal Athletic Park. The Powwow is hosted on the homelands of the lək̓ʷəŋən people on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day.
The South Island Powwow honours and recognizes survivors of Indian Residential and Day Schools and their families, the Sixties Scoop and the children who never made it home from these institutions. A special honouring ceremony is held to recognize survivors and the children who never came home.
“Our South Island Powwow has become a powerful gathering for our communities to celebrate culture, strengthen relationships, and welcome people from all backgrounds to learn and share in the traditions of the Coast Salish peoples,” said Chief Ron Sam. “As we prepare for the fifth annual Powwow, we are proud to continue creating a space where drumming, dancing, and storytelling bring generations together. We look forward to welcoming friends, families, and visitors to Songhees territory to celebrate with us.”
The Powwow will feature the traditional grand entry of Nations, Indigenous song and dance, along with guest speakers, cultural performances and more than 90 vendors including Songhees Events & Catering, food trucks and 72 Indigenous merchants.
“The City is honoured to continue its partnership with the Songhees Nation and to financially support this significant celebration and recognition of Indigenous resiliency and culture,” said Mayor Marianne Alto. “Royal Athletic Park offers a space for Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities to come together in honour, healing and unity. We encourage residents to join us on September 30 to gain knowledge and understanding.”
The fifth annual South Island Powwow is free and open to the public, welcoming families, schools and visitors of all ages to learn, reflect and participate in the celebration of Indigenous strength, culture and identity. Gates will open at 10 a.m., with the grand entry at noon and the event concluding at 7 p.m.
For information on how to sponsor the fifth annual South Island Powwow, visit songheesnation.ca/south-island-powwow.
