Rather than the usual Canada Day activities held at Lions Centennial Park in past years, the Town of Ponoka, in collaboration with the Ponoka Stampede Association and the Four Nations of Maskwacis, created a teepee village in a week-long celebration of Cree and Indigenous culture.
During the week, visitors to the village, set up in the ball diamonds in front of St. Augustine School, were treated to an immersive experience in Indigenous storytelling, artwork, cuisine and culture.
READ MORE: Town and Stampede partner to host fireworks on Canada Day
According to a news release from the town, the village and its activities were being held in the spirit of reconciliation and to coincide with National Indigenous History Month which is held in June.
“The Town of Ponoka is very excited to be hosting the teepee village event in our community during the week of Stampede,” Mayor Kevin Ferguson in a release. “This event is a great opportunity to learn about Indigenous culture and traditions.”
The teepee village opened with a ceremony on June 27 and will be run until July 3. Opening remarks, a powwow with traditional drumming, singing and dancing, and greetings from elders, will be held daily.
READ MORE: Cree teepee village presented for the first time at Ponoka Stampede
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