Organizers confirm Kamloopa Powwow scheduled to make its return in July

Photo: Castanet Staff

The Kamloopa Powwow, last held in July 2019. Organizers confirm the event will return in July 2022, subject to Tk'emlups te Swecwepemc requirements and provincial health orders.

After two consecutive years of cancellations, the annual Kamloopa Powwow will return in July.

In a Facebook post, organizers said they look forward to seeing everyone at the event.

“We confirm, we will be hosting the 2022 annual Kamloopa powwow on July 29 to 31,” the post said.

Organizers said the event will be subject to Tk’emlups te Swecwpemc recreational and facility requirements, which are in line with provincial health orders.

In 2021, the event was cancelled for the second consecutive year due to the grief felt by Indigenous communities after the confirmation of unmarked graves near the former Kamloops Indian Residential School.

The organizers acknowledged the community is still grieving.

“We thank everyone for your understanding that TteS is in mourning and for your continued prayers during our time of healing the Le Estcwicwey (the missing),” the post said.

“Please be understanding that we will be protecting the perimeter of our children, and as a result it may impact some parking and camping areas.”

The Kamloopa Powwow is one of the largest powwows in North America, typically attracting attendees from across Canada and the Western U.S.