The smoke-filled skies offered a little reprieve near Penticton on Friday evening, just in time for the grand entry to kick off the third annual Pow Wow Between the Lakes.

The event at the Penticton Indian Band will see dancers who have come from all over western North America compete in many categories through the weekend, .

"We were a little worried about the smoke, but the smoke knew we were going to have a Pow Wow and a celebration and it's kind of cleared it's way for us," organizer Kristine Jack says.

It’s a family friendly event, and this year youth and children are the main celebration.

Jack says during the weekend, local youth will be honoured for their above-and-beyond achievements.

"With academics, athletics. Even one name came forward...she raises money for the SPCA because she cares about the animals," Jack says.

"I mean things like that is what we want to showcase. We want to let them know we support them with whatever they want to achieve."

While only in its third year, Jack points out the Pow Wow has long existed on the PIB.

This event is a revitalization of the Pow Wow competition and celebration the band formerly held.

"I was a five-year-old little girl back in 1971, and this is where I started (dancing)... For these little kids, I'm hoping when they're my age one of them will take over and will actually be running this Pow Wow," Jack says. "I really want the youth and the children to bring this back to our community."