By Haylee Winger
Culture, tradition, dancing and drumming filled the powwow arbor over the weekend as
Alexander First Nation hosted its Traditional Pow Wow and Market from Aug. 21 to 23.
The three-day gathering brought families, dancers, drummers, vendors and visitors together
under the theme “Strengthening Our Traditions.”
Alexander First Nation Chief George Arcand Jr. spoke to those gathered Saturday afternoon,
reflecting on the significance of Treaty 6 and looking ahead to an important milestone for the
Nation.
Chief Arcand spoke about the 150th anniversary of Treaty 6 this year and the significance of
2027, when Alexander First Nation will mark 150 years since its adhesion to Treaty 6 in 1877.
Alexander First Nation, also known as Kipohtakaw, is a Cree community in central Alberta,
approximately 17 kilometres west of Morinville. The Nation is part of the Treaty 6 Confederacy.
Grand Entries were held throughout the weekend, bringing dancers, Chiefs, royalty and
community members into the powwow arbor.
The Grand Entry was led by the Eagle Staff and flags, followed by Chief Arcand, members of
Chief and Council, visiting Chiefs and royalty. Adult men and women dancers, teens, children
and tiny tots followed as the procession entered the arbor.
Following the blessing, a victory dance was held, followed by intertribal dancing.
Royalty attending the event included princesses from communities across Alberta. Among those
attending was Justine Arcand-Strawberry, Miss Queen Teen Alberta 2026, from Spruce
Grove.
The weekend also featured numerous vendors and food trucks, giving visitors an opportunity to
enjoy a variety of food, including bannock burgers and bannock hot dogs.
The event provided an opportunity for the community and visitors to come together in
celebration of Alexander First Nation’s culture, traditions and connection to Treaty 6.
Alexander First Nation celebrates tradition at annual Pow Wow
