Pow wow this weekend

Photo: Four Seasons Cultural Society

The 2017 Pow Wow Between the Lakes.

One of the biggest First Nations cultural events in the South Okanagan will take place this weekend, with dancing, drumming and singing. 

The third annual Pow Wow Between the Lakes kicks off Friday night at the Outma Sqilx'w Cultural School on the Penticton Indian Band Reserve. 

"It's going to be competitive dancing," said director Kristine Jack. "Grass dancers, fancy dancers, traditional dancers, of all ages."

Hundreds of competitors from around Western Canada and the United States will display their culture and compete in a variety of age groups. 

On opening night, Outma Sqilx'w children singers will start off the festivities, part of an overall theme. 

"It's really a celebration of our children this year," Jack said. 

Aside from the competitions, which will take place all weekend, there will be craft vendors, selling Indigenous art and jewellery. There will also be food and drink vendors. The event is drug and alcohol free.

Jack said she anticipates the event will be big, with the hopes of seeing 500 visitors on Friday and at least 1,000 each on Saturday and Sunday. 

"It's open to the public, we hope lots attend," she said, adding that parking is free and there will be plenty of signage on Green Mountain Road directing visitors. 

Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and to prepare for the weather, as the event is outdoors. 

The weekend begins Friday, Aug. 17 at 7 p.m. for an opening celebration, and continues Saturday at 10 a.m. with a Kiddies Korner activity centre. Dancing begin at 1 p.m. through the evening, and pick up again Sunday at 1 p.m. 

Tickets are $5 per person per day, or $10 for the whole weekend, and kids 10 and under. 

For more information, click here.