Annual Stalew Powwow Begins at Langley Events Center – British Columbia
The stɑl̓əw̓ (Stalew) powwow returns for a second year at the Langley Events Centre.
The annual three-day event aims to celebrate Indigenous culture, traditions, music, regalia and art.
Stalew translates to “Big River” in the Hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ (Halkomelem) language and organizers say the name reflects the eternal importance and generosity of the Fraser River to the Indigenous communities living along its banks.
This event follows the success of last year’s inaugural powwow aimed at preserving Indigenous heritage and keeping traditional ways of life alive.
Organizers like Tumia Knott say the event is a great way for local First Nations to showcase and share their culture.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our rich culture, to celebrate with each other, to bring a lot of our fellow citizens together and that’s why we’re here,” Knott explained.
“Our event is open to everyone to attend and participate. We have native food vendors and an artisan market with so many wonderful pieces of art.
Although the event is locally focused, some participants come from as far away as Scotland and New Zealand.
Randi Jaraypie teaches in Merritt and says it’s great to see so many people coming together.
“I have lived and taught in the province for over a decade. So it’s really nice to see all the people from different backgrounds sharing indigenous culture,” Jaraypie shared.
Information about the three-day event, including tickets and schedule, can be found here.
The event ends Sunday evening.
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