The powwow's grand entry on July 17 was headed by Chief Liz LaSaga of the Flat Bay Indian Band, Chief Misel Joe of Conne River, Elder Victor Muise - along with a host of other elders, dignitaries, Legionnaires, military and police personal, and community members.
Chief LaSaga addressed the attendees, noting the local powwow started as a dream of a few people and has grown in size and scope every year since.
"It gets more beautiful and so do you all," she said.
Chief LaSaga thanked the Mi'kmaq of Conne River for their continued mentorship, as well as those who helped make this year's powwow a reality.
She said the Mi'kmaq culture in Bay St. George had been repressed for many years and it was promising to see so many local residents and visitors celebrating their aboriginal culture.
"I also want you to look around at the children here - and this makes me well up - because our culture has been reviving here for seven years," she said. "We have an opportunity to rear such dynamic young men and women."
Among those in attendance were Jeremy and Kate Parlee of Hampton, NB. They and their children - Isaac, Luke and Martha - were in the area to visit family and to take in their first powwow.
"I just like the kids to see their culture and heritage," said Ms. Parlee.
Eleven-year-old Luke said he was enjoying the festivities.
"I think it's really interesting," he said while watching participants dancing around the arbour. "Maybe next year I'll participate more."
The powwow was hosted by the Bay St. George Mi'kmaq Cultural Revival Committee. Other highlights included a traditionally built wigwam and booths set up for the sale of regalia and other aboriginal-related items.
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