Origins back to 2005
The 20th Annual Gathering at the Rapids Pow Wow traces its origins back to 2005, when it began as a student-led initiative through a partnership between Algoma University’s Anishinaabe Initiatives department and the Shingwauk Anishinaabe Students’ Association. From its inception, the Pow Wow was envisioned as a celebration of Anishinaabe culture, bringing together community members in a spirit of unity and cultural pride. For nearly two decades, the event was hosted at Algoma University’s George Leach Centre.
Over time, the Pow Wow evolved to include a broader mission (which included a change of venue to the GFL Memorial Gardens): to showcase Algoma University as a welcoming academic environment for prospective Indigenous students and to promote employment opportunities at the university for Indigenous community members. As interest and attendance grew, competition dancing and drumming categories were introduced, offering substantial prize money and drawing skilled performers from across the region. These additions helped transform the Pow Wow into a major competitive event, attracting participants and spectators from throughout the Great Lakes region, both in Canada and the United States.
Call for Vendor Applications: 20th Annual Gathering at the Rapids Pow Wow
Algoma University is pleased to announce that the 20th Annual Gathering at the Rapids Pow Wow: Celebrating Lifelong Learning will take place Saturday, February 14 and Sunday, February 15, 2026, at GFL Memorial Gardens in Sault Ste. Marie.
With continued growth and community participation, we are now inviting craft, food, and information vendors to apply for this two-day celebration of Indigenous culture, learning, and connection.
Vendor Fees:
- Craft Vendors: $300 / weekend (Saturday & Sunday)
- Information Booths: $300 / weekend (Saturday & Sunday)
- Food Vendors: $500 / weekend (Saturday & Sunday)
Please note that submitting an application does not guarantee a booth. All applicants must complete the full registration form, and successful vendors will be notified during the week of January 8, 2026.
→ Application Deadline: Friday, January 2, 2026
→ Questions? Contact [email protected]
Join us for a vibrant weekend of cultural exchange and celebration as we honour 20 years of learning, community, and tradition at Algoma University.
Volunteers Needed!
Location: GFL Memorial Gardens
Dates: Feb 14-15, 2026
You can sign up through the following form or email Elizabeth Nahwegezhic at [email protected]
Book your rooms at our host hotels for this year’s Gathering at the Rapids Pow Wow!
If you call to book your rooms mention “GATR POW WOW” and you will get discounted prices. Using the QR codes to book has the discounted rates applied.
Marking its 20th year, Gathering at the Rapids Pow Wow: A Celebration of Lifelong Learning is a powerful celebration of Anishinaabe culture, community, and education. Hosted by Algoma University, this annual Pow Wow takes place February 14–15, 2026, at the GFL Memorial Gardens in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Students, families, and community members are invited to come together in a shared space of respect, learning, and celebration through song, dance, and cultural connection.
1st Annual
This event represents a continued commitment to truth, reconciliation, and community partnership. Hosting this Pow Wow in Brampton enhances the visibility of Algoma University’s Anishinaabe Initiatives in Southern Ontario and aligns with our long-term goal of increasing Indigenous presence and engagement across campuses.
The collaboration reflects the success of the Gathering at the Rapids Pow Wow and establishes a foundation for annual celebration and community connection at Algoma’s Brampton campus.
Chief Shingwauk’s Vision and Special Mission
Beyond cultural expression, the Pow Wow serves as a powerful educational moment. It reflects Algoma University’s commitment to promoting Chief Shingwauk’s vision and Special Mission, while also raising awareness about Anishinaabe knowledge systems, enrolment pathways, and employment opportunities at the University.
Each year, this signature event brings together people from across the Great Lakes region in both Canada and the United States, and the 20th Annual Pow Wow promises to be the most vibrant and impactful gathering to date.
19th Annual Gathering at the Rapids Pow Wow: Celebrating Lifelong Learning
The past 19th Annual Gathering at the Rapids Pow Wow: Celebrating Lifelong Learning was an outstanding success, attracting over 5,000 attendees—a record-breaking turnout that firmly established it as the largest Pow Wow in the Algoma region. We also secured record breaking sponsorships, marking the highest fundraising total in the event’s history. In addition, this Gathering saw the largest number of registered drummers, dancers, singers, and vendors since the Pow Wow’s inception, highlighting its continued growth and impact.