Honouring Wətanmy Powwow 2025

The 30th Annual Sampson Family Intertribal Celebration on Vancouver Island

An air of anticipation hangs over Brentwood Bay this summer—something powerful, respectful, and profoundly moving is stirring at Honouring Wətanmy Powwow 2025. What awaits is more than just vibrant dance and colourful regalia; it’s a journey through culture, connection, and community. As you read on, you'll discover how this weekend promises to enrich your experience on Vancouver Island in ways you never expected.

Event Overview

When:

Friday, July 25 – Grand Entry at 7 PM
Saturday, July 26 – Grand Entries at 1 PM & 7 PM
Sunday, July 27 – Grand Entry at 1 PM

Where: Field behind ȽÁU, WELṈEW̱ Tribal School, 7449 West Saanich Rd, Brentwood Bay, BC

Why You Should Attend

Honouring Heritage & Legacy

The powwow celebrates the teachings and traditions of Alice “Wətanmy” Sampson—born Nez Perce, nurtured Coast Salish. This intergenerational gathering offers deep roots in Indigenous culture and community connection.

Authentic Intertribal Experience

Featuring drum groups, traditional dances, honouring ceremonies, storytelling, and spiritual reflections led by Elders. It's an open invitation to step respectfully into a sacred space.

Community & Celebration

Expect vendors offering crafts and foods, fundraising opportunities, camping on-site, and a full concession stand—all enveloped in a spirit of unity and communal welcome.

Practical Details for Visitors

Schedule at a Glance

Friday (25 July) – Opening Grand Entry at 7 PM
Saturday (26 July) – Grand Entries at 1 PM & 7 PM
Sunday (27 July) – Final Grand Entry at 1 PM

Getting There & Parking

Limited parking onsite—carpooling strongly advised.
Transit routes: Bus 83 stops directly outside; buses 81 & 75 within a 10–15 min walk

On-site Camping & Amenities

Pitch a tent for the weekend and enjoy full event immersion.
Facilities include washrooms, water stations, concession stands & camping support

Vendors & Concessions

Local Indigenous artisans will showcase handmade crafts and offerings.
Food trucks and concession stands feature traditional dishes—don’t miss out!

Cultural Etiquette & Accessibility

This is a sacred space—follow the guidance of Elders and organizers.
Respect ceremonial boundaries: refrain from taking photos during Grand Entry and honour songs unless invited.
No alcohol, smoking, or drugs are permitted on-site.
Volunteer roles (e.g., parking attendant, food service, Elders’ support) are available if you'd like to be part of the circle.

Useful Tips Before You Go

Tip	Details
Dress	Layered clothing for evening chill, comfortable footwear (shoes & sandals).
Stay Hydrated	Bring refillable water bottle; hydration stations on-site.
Volunteer	Great way to engage: contact via powwow site by July 13.
Photography	Ask permission first; some ceremonies forbid photography.

Tip

Details

Dress

Layered clothing for evening chill, comfortable footwear (shoes & sandals).

Stay Hydrated

Bring refillable water bottle; hydration stations on-site.

Volunteer

Great way to engage: contact via powwow site by July 13.

Photography

Ask permission first; some ceremonies forbid photography.

Disclaimer

Vanislander provides information for general reference only. We do not assume responsibility for any changes, cancellations, or modifications made by third parties. For the most up-to-date details, please refer to the official websites or social media channels of the respective organizers or businesses.

Backstory & Cultural Significance

Named in honour of Alice “Wətanmy” Sampson, a cultural bridge between her Nez Perce birth and Coast Salish marriage, this powwow reflects a powerful story of reconnection. Over three decades, the Sampson family—spanning children, grandchildren, and descendants—has nurtured this event, transforming it into a beacon of intertribal unity and cultural education on southern Vancouver Island.

Don’t Miss This Cultural Journey

The Honouring Wətanmy Powwow is more than a festival—it’s a heartfelt ceremony merging dance, tradition, and community. Whether you're Indigenous or visiting, this powwow offers an authentic encounter with living culture. From captivating Grand Entries to meaningful story-sharing and ancestral beats, this weekend invites you into something greater.

Mark your calendar for July 25–27, 2025, prepare to arrive early, and bring an open heart and respect. Whether you're camping under the stars or joining for the day, this powwow promises to enrich your Vancouver Island experience with lasting memories and cultural insight—if you take the step to immerse yourself fully.

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