The heartbeat of the drum. The swirl of vibrant regalia. The sound of Native languages in the air.
For three days this summer, the community of George Gordon First Nation will come alive with one of the biggest cultural celebrations in Treaty 4 territory. Whether you’ve been to dozens of powwows or are thinking of attending your very first, the Annual Competition Powwow happening June 27, 28 & 29, 2025 is the place to be.
Contents
- 1 🗓️ Powwow Dates & Times
- 2 🪘 What Is a Powwow?
- 3 💰 Massive Singing Contest Prizes
- 4 👣 Dance Categories & Payouts
- 5 🏆 Special Dance Contests
- 6 🎤 Meet the Head Staff
- 7 🛍️ Vendor Info
- 8 👀 First-Time Powwow Tips
- 9 🛏️ Where to Stay & What to Do Nearby
- 10 🔐 Security & Guidelines
- 11 Top 10 Things to Do Near George Gordon First Nation During Powwow Weekend
- 12 Top 10 FAQs About George Gordon First Nation
🗓️ Powwow Dates & Times
- Location: George Gordon First Nation, Saskatchewan (Treaty 4 Territory)
- Dates: June 27, 28, 29, 2025
- Grand Entry Times:
- Friday: 7 PM
- Saturday: 1 PM & 7 PM
- Sunday: 2 PM
Grand Entry is when dancers enter the arena in full regalia, led by the veterans and honored guests. It’s the ceremonial start of each session and a must-see moment.
🪘 What Is a Powwow?
A powwow is a gathering of Indigenous Nations to celebrate culture, community, and tradition through song and dance. There are contests for drum groups (singing) and individual dancers, each with their own style and regalia. It’s open to all — and newcomers are always welcome with respect.
💰 Massive Singing Contest Prizes
Drum groups are the heart of a powwow, and this year George Gordon is offering $15,000 for 1st place — one of the largest payouts in the region.
Singing Contest Payouts
| Place | Prize Amount |
|---|---|
| 1st | $15,000 |
| 2nd | $12,000 |
| 3rd | $10,000 |
| 4th | $8,000 |
| 5th | $6,000 |
| 6th | $4,000 |
| 7th | $3,000 |
| 8th | $2,000 |
| 9th | $1,500 |
| 10th | $1,000 |
👣 Dance Categories & Payouts
Dance contests are split by age and gender, with dancers judged on skill, style, and regalia. From tiny tots to elders, every category is celebrated.
Kids & Teens
Tiny Tots (0-5): Paid daily by session
Juniors (6–12):
| Place | Boys & Girls Categories |
| 1st | $400 |
| 2nd | $300 |
| 3rd | $200 |
| 4th | $100 |
Teens (13–17):
| Place | Boys & Girls Categories |
| 1st | $600 |
| 2nd | $400 |
| 3rd | $300 |
| 4th | $200 |
Adults
Junior Men & Women (18–39)
Senior Men & Women (40–54)
Younger Golden Age (55–65)
Young Golden Age (66+)
All adult categories:
| Place | Prize Amount |
| 1st | $1,200 |
| 2nd | $1,000 |
| 3rd | $800 |
| 4th | $600 |
🏆 Special Dance Contests
This powwow features several dance specials, often hosted by families or sponsors to honor loved ones. These include:
- Lil Warrior Tatum Canard Junior Boys Grass Special
- Sonny Seesasequa Junior Boys Chicken Dance Special
- Leese Seesasequa Junior Girls Traditional Special
- Mitchell Buffalo’s $15K Family Men’s Chicken Dance Special (18+)
- Leese Cowboy/Cowgirl Special
- Jace & Cree Bird Wolf Teen Girls Traditional Special
- George Gordon Council Specials (categories TBD)
These specials add more excitement and recognition to specific dance styles and individuals.
🎤 Meet the Head Staff
The powwow will be led by experienced and respected voices from across Turtle Island:
- MCs: Lawrence Baker & Jeff Cappo
- Arena Directors: Ira McNab & Patrick McNab
- Head Dancers: Jared Buffalo & Lisa Ewack
- Host Drums: Cree Spirit (Kawacatoose Cree Nation) & The Boyz (Twin Cities, MN)
- Head Singing Judge: Gerald Baptiste (Red Pheasant Cree Nation)
- Sound: Angelo Wasteste
🛍️ Vendor Info
Looking to shop or sell? There will be vendor space available with everything from beadwork and clothing to food and crafts.
- Contact:
- Ashley Manitopyes: 306-450-2569
- Princess & Lil Warrior:
- Bobbi Jo Seeyquent: 639-999-7880
- Other inquiries: 306-835-2232
👀 First-Time Powwow Tips
- Bring cash – for vendors, raffles, and donation giveaways
- Respect the arena – no photos during certain dances (listen to MCs)
- Stay hydrated – June sun can be hot on the prairies
- Ask questions – locals are welcoming and proud to share their traditions
🛏️ Where to Stay & What to Do Nearby
While George Gordon is a rural First Nation, nearby towns like Raymore, Punnichy, and Regina offer hotel options. The Saskatchewan countryside also makes for a beautiful summer road trip.
🔐 Security & Guidelines
This is a drug and alcohol free event with 24-hour security on-site. Respect and safety are top priorities for dancers, singers, and visitors.
Top 10 Things to Do Near George Gordon First Nation During Powwow Weekend
- Visit the Last Mountain Lake National Wildlife Area: Offers peaceful hiking and birdwatching, perfect for relaxation and connecting with the land.
- Explore Treaty 4 Governance Centre in Fort Qu’Appelle: Learn about the history of Treaty 4 and Indigenous governance in an interactive cultural space.
- Stop by the Sacred Heart Church in Lebret: A beautiful historic church with ties to Indigenous history, great for photos and quiet reflection.
- Eat at Raymore Grill: Local favorite for home-cooked comfort food, ideal for a quick and hearty bite during powwow days.
- Shop at local craft stands near the powwow: Find handmade beadwork, clothing, and gifts while supporting Native artisans.
- Check out Echo Valley Provincial Park: Only about an hour away, this park offers hiking, swimming, and views of Echo Lake.
- Visit the Quinton Petroglyph Site: A sacred Indigenous rock carving site that provides insight into pre-contact history and spirituality.
- Spend time in Regina: The capital city is about 90 minutes away and offers museums, shopping, and urban dining if you want to extend your trip.
- Tour Motherwell Homestead National Historic Site: Discover early prairie life and agricultural history, offering family-friendly educational fun.
- Attend a local rodeo or mini cultural event: Often hosted in nearby communities like Punnichy, these events are great for meeting locals and experiencing rural Indigenous life firsthand.
Top 10 FAQs About George Gordon First Nation
1. Where is George Gordon First Nation located? It’s in southern Saskatchewan, about 110 km north of Regina, near the town of Punnichy. The community is part of Treaty 4 territory.
2. Who are the people of George Gordon First Nation? They are primarily Saulteaux (Ojibwe) and Plains Cree. The nation has a strong cultural identity rooted in language, ceremonies, and community values.
3. What Treaty is George Gordon First Nation a part of? They are signatories to Treaty 4, which was signed in 1874 between several First Nations and the Crown, covering much of southern Saskatchewan.
4. How many members are in the George Gordon First Nation? As of recent records, there are over 3,700 registered members, with many living both on and off reserve.
5. What language is spoken there? The community speaks English, Saulteaux, and Plains Cree. There are active efforts to revitalize traditional languages through programs and education.
6. What economic development projects exist? George Gordon First Nation is involved in agriculture, construction, and renewable energy, and operates local businesses to support its economy.
7. What services are offered on the reserve? Services include education, health care, housing, cultural programs, and youth initiatives, helping to support both traditional and modern needs.
8. Is George Gordon First Nation open to visitors? Yes, especially during events like powwows or public gatherings. Visitors are encouraged to come with respect and openness to learning.
9. What makes their powwow special? It’s known for its large payouts, powerful drum contests, and strong community spirit. Many dancers and singers travel long distances to take part.
10. Where can I learn more about them? Visit the official George Gordon First Nation website or check out Indigenous Services Canada’s page for community updates, history, and services.
Come feel the heartbeat of the people. The 2025 George Gordon Competition Powwow is waiting for you.
Citations:
- Official George Gordon Powwow Poster (2025)
- Treaty 4 Territory Cultural Info: www.treaty4.ca
- Tourism Saskatchewan: www.tourismsaskatchewan.com
