If you’re looking for one of the most vibrant, family-centered powwows of the summer, Big River First Nation is calling you home. Their 4th Annual Powwow returns July 22, 23 & 24, 2025, and it’s shaping up to be their biggest one yet. From powerful drum beats to brightly colored regalia and traditional foods, this is more than an event — it’s a celebration of empowering our youth and our children through song and dance. Let’s break it all down so you don’t miss a thing.
Contents
📍 Location
Big River First Nation Arbor – located in Saskatchewan. The outdoor arbor is perfect for large gatherings and powwows. There’s plenty of room for dancers, singers, vendors, and visitors from all nations.
📅 Schedule
- Singing & Dance Registration opens: Tuesday, July 23 at 12:00 PM
- Registration closes: Wednesday, July 24 at 1:00 PM
- Main contests and events begin immediately after.
💃 Dance Category Payouts
| Category | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Golden Age 60+ | $1000 | $800 | $600 | $400 |
| Sr Adults 40–59 | $1000 | $800 | $600 | $400 |
| Jr Adults 18–39 | $1000 | $800 | $600 | $400 |
| Teenagers 13–17 | $500 | $400 | $300 | $200 |
| Juniors 6–12 | $250 | $200 | $150 | $100 |
| Tiny Tots & Veterans | Paid Daily | – | – | – |
🎤 Singing Contest Payouts
| Placement | Prize |
|---|---|
| 1st | $15,000 |
| 2nd | $12,000 |
| 3rd | $10,000 |
| 4th | $8,000 |
| 5th | $6,000 |
| 6th | $4,000 |
Women’s Backup Singing Contest Payouts:
| Placement | Prize |
|---|---|
| 1st | $3,000 |
| 2nd | $1,000 |
| 3rd | $500 |
| 4th | $500 |
🎯 Featured Specials
There will be dozens of special categories to honor dancers, leaders, and community members including: Powwow Committee Special, Open Grass vs Chicken, Preteen, Ironman & Ironwoman Endurance, Dreamer Special, Men’s Grass, Men’s Special, Maximum Lateral Special, Junior Committee Special, Liam Netmaker Special, Tin Foil Special, Chief & Council Special, Women’s Jingle, Bear Memorial (Men & Women Fancy), Outgoing Senior Princess Krissa Tootoosis, Outgoing Junior Princess, Outgoing Tiny Tot Grace Toto, Jingle Tiny Tot, Outgoing Little Warrior Luke Weenonis (Junior Grass), Shawn Junior Cardinal (Teen Boys Traditional), Monica Bear Special (Old Style Jingle), Eugene & Tina Rabbitskin (Disability Special)
🎙️ Event Team
- Announcers: Cal Arcand, Hal Eagletail, Howard Thompson
- Arena Directors: Donnie Rain, Conrad Medicinerop
- Singing Judge: David Cleaveland
- Dancing Judge: Monica Bear
- Hand Drum Contest: Waylon Dreaver
🛑 Rules & Safety
Absolutely NO drugs or alcohol permitted. Updated state-of-the-art sound system. 24-hour security provided for everyone’s safety and comfort. Committee is not responsible for theft, damage, or loss of property.
📞 Contacts & Vendor Info
- President: Bob Rainey – (306) 468-1697
- Vendors/Concessions: Laurie Rainey & Crystal Weenonis – (639) 922-7996
🏕️ Where to Stay Nearby
While on-site camping may be available, nearby communities like Debden, Shellbrook, and Prince Albert offer hotels and motels including:
- Canalta Hotel – Prince Albert
- Northern Greens Resort – Nearby scenic cabin experience
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Prince Albert
- Local camping/RV options – Check with Big River Band Office for updates.
🍽️ Food & Vendors
Bring your appetite! Expect Indian tacos, fresh bannock, and local favorites from Indigenous-owned vendors. Support Native artists selling beadwork, fashion, ribbon skirts, and crafts.
10 frequently asked questions about Big River First Nation in Saskatchewan
- Where is Big River First Nation located?
Big River First Nation is situated approximately 98 kilometers northwest of Prince Albert and 19 kilometers southwest of Debden in Saskatchewan, Canada. The community resides within the boreal forest region, offering rich natural surroundings. This location provides residents with access to both traditional lands and nearby urban centers. - What is the population of Big River First Nation?
As of 2022, Big River First Nation had a registered population of 3,888 members. The community has experienced growth over the years, reflecting its vibrant and expanding populace. This number includes both on-reserve and off-reserve members. - What language is primarily spoken in Big River First Nation
The primary language spoken is Cree, reflecting the community’s deep-rooted cultural heritage. Efforts are ongoing to preserve and promote the Cree language among all age groups. Language programs and cultural workshops support this linguistic preservation. - What educational facilities are available in Big River First Nation?
The community offers educational programs ranging from early childhood to post-secondary support. Institutions like the Sgt. Darby Morin Centre of Excellence provide training and education opportunities. Emphasis is placed on lifelong learning and cultural education. - What economic development initiatives exist in Big River First Nation?
The Economic Development Program assists members with business incubation and development. This includes support for business planning and fostering economic ventures that benefit the entire community. Such initiatives aim to create sustainable economic growth and self-sufficiency. - What healthcare services are available to residents?
The BRFN Health Centre provides a range of services, including wellness programs, medical transportation, homecare, dental therapy, and prenatal/postnatal care. A dedicated team addresses the diverse health needs of the community. These services aim to ensure comprehensive healthcare access for all members. - What cultural activities are prominent in Big River First Nation?
The community actively engages in cultural preservation through workshops on oral history, land-based life skills, and traditional ceremonies like sun dances and powwows. These events foster cultural pride and intergenerational knowledge transfer. They serve as vital components of the community’s cultural identity. - How is the governance of Big River First Nation structured?
The community operates under a custom electoral system, with leadership focused on transparency and accountability. The governance structure includes a Chief and Council who oversee various community portfolios. This system ensures that leadership decisions align with the community’s needs and values. - What is the historical significance of Big River First Nation?
The community is a signatory of Treaty No. 6, signed in 1878 under Chief See-See-Way-Um. Historically, members were self-sufficient, relying on hunting, trapping, and fishing. This treaty relationship continues to influence the community’s rights and development. - How can one contact the administration of Big River First Nation?
The administrative office is located at PO Box 519, Debden, SK, S0J 0S0. They can be reached by phone at (306) 724-4700 or fax at (306) 724-2161. For more information, visiting their official website is recommended.
📣 Call to Action
Bring your regalia, your friends, and your family to Big River First Nation this July. With powerful specials, top-tier singers, massive payouts, and traditional food, this is a weekend you won’t want to miss. Share this post, tag your dance crew, and we’ll see you at the arbor!
