The Songhees Nation, with support from the City of Victoria, invites Greater Victoria residents to the 4th annual South Island Powwow on Tuesday, September 30, 2025. The Powwow is hosted on the homelands of the lək̓ʷəŋən people at Royal Athletic Park on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a federal statutory holiday also known as Orange Shirt Day. The venue offers a space for Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities to come together in honour, healing and unity.
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 will be held to recognize survivors and the children who never came home.
The Powwow will feature the traditional grand entry of Nations, with Indigenous song and dance with host drum Smokey Valley, along with guest speakers, cultural performances and more than 90 vendors including Songhees Events & Catering, food trucks and 72 Indigenous merchants.
Gates will open at 10 a.m., with grand entry at noon and the event concluding at 8 p.m. The event 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.
“The South Island Powwow is more than a celebration—it’s a declaration that our culture is alive and thriving,” said Chief Ron Sam of Songhees Nation. “Each drumbeat is a heartbeat of our people. We welcome everyone to join us in this sacred space of honour, healing and cultural pride.”
“The City is honoured to renew its partnership with the Songhees Nation to support this celebration and recognition of Indigenous pride, culture and resiliency,” said Mayor Marianne Alto. “We encourage our residents to take this opportunity to learn and listen.”
For information on how to sponsor the 4th annual South Island Powwow visit: songheesnation.ca/south-island-powwow.
