--- title: Feel the heartbeat of Turtle Island at the Akwesasne Powwow date: 2026-08-19T14:47:00-04:00 author: Laurie Weir canonical_url: "https://www.southeasternontario.ca/articles/feel-the-heartbeat-of-turtle-island-at-the-akwesasne-powwow/" section: Articles --- ![](https://www.southeasternontario.ca/images/transforms/_maxWidth2400px/22-CORNWALL-HISTORY-CULTURE-EVENT-AKWESASNE-POW-WOW40-1.jpg) # Feel the heartbeat of Turtle Island at the Akwesasne Powwow Laurie Weir The sound reaches you before you enter the circle. Drums and voices fill the grounds as dancers move in brilliant regalia, artisans display their work and the scent of corn soup, moose burgers and other foods drifts from the vendors. The 2026 Akwesasne Powwow takes place Sept. 12 and 13 at Lamoureux Park, 100 Water St. E., in Tsikaná:taien/Cornwall. Gates open at 10 a.m. each day, with Grand Entry beginning at noon. For visitors, the weekend offers a chance to experience Indigenous culture, meet people from across Turtle Island and learn by listening. Tehaienkwarentos Thompson, co-chair of the Akwesasne Powwow Committee, describes it as a vibrant and deeply connected gathering. “You’ll see people from all walks of life coming together to celebrate culture, community and tradition while showing love, kindness and respect for one another,” Thompson said. “Throughout the weekend, you’ll hear the heartbeat of Turtle Island through the drums and songs, see the beauty and movement of the dancers, and feel the power, strength and spirit that fills the grounds.” The powwow grew from conversations with young people who wanted an event where they could celebrate Indigenous culture and identity. It began in 2000 and has since grown in both reputation and importance. The gathering welcomes Indigenous relatives as well as visitors of every background to Akwesasne’s ancestral territory. It is a time to give thanks to Mother Earth, reconnect with family and friends and help newcomers understand powwow culture. “It’s more than something you watch,” Thompson said. “It’s something you experience and feel.” **Begin with Grand Entry** For a first-time visitor, Grand Entry is essential. Held at noon on Saturday and Sunday, it marks the formal beginning of the powwow and brings dancers and participants into the circle together. It is visually striking, but its meaning extends far beyond the colour and movement. “For some dancers, it is deeply traditional, sacred and ceremonial,” Thompson said. “For others, they may be entering the circle representing someone or something important to them, or dancing for those who are no longer able to dance for themselves.” Some dancers may carry or take tobacco, placing their words, thoughts and intentions into the medicine before entering the circle with a good mind. Elders offer opening words and help set the intention for the day. Visitors should stand quietly during Grand Entry and other ceremonial songs, remove hats or head coverings and follow instructions from the emcee. “Grand Entry is much more than a colourful procession,” Thompson said. “It is a moment of respect, connection, ceremony and unity.” **Drums, dancers and new friendships** Singers, dancers and drummers travel to Akwesasne from across Turtle Island, or North America. Last year’s host drum came from North Carolina. Although the schedule follows a format familiar to competitors and participants, no two powwows feel exactly the same. Much of the experience comes from the people who gather, the conversations that happen and the new friendships made during the weekend. Visitors can also browse work by First Nations artisans and watch cultural performances and demonstrations. The event is held beside the St. Lawrence River, giving people room to walk through the grounds, take in the dancing and spend time with vendors. The powwow takes place rain or shine. **Come hungry** Food is a large part of the weekend, and visitors are encouraged to try something new. Depending on the vendors attending, choices may include moose burgers, walleye nuggets, corn soup and Indian tacos. In past years, salmon steaks with fiddleheads have also been served. Not every dish comes from Akwesasne. Vendors travel from different First Nations and communities, bringing foods connected to their own families and traditions. “Corn soup is always a favourite, and an Indian taco is a must-try,” Thompson said. There are familiar choices, including poutine and hot dogs, for anyone who is not quite ready to leap headfirst into culinary adventure. **Listen, ask and show respect** Visitors do not need to arrive knowing every tradition or protocol. They should come with kindness, respect and an open mind. If you are uncertain about something, ask respectfully. Powwows are places of gathering and learning, and people are generally receptive to thoughtful questions. A dancer’s clothing is called regalia, not a costume. Do not touch regalia, feathers or personal belongings without permission. If an item falls, point it out to the dancer and allow them to retrieve it. Photography may be permitted during much of the weekend, but not during every song, dance or ceremony. Listen to the emcee, who will announce when photography or recording is inappropriate. Ask before photographing an individual dancer. Different Nations, families and individuals may follow their own traditions and protocols. “You do not need to know everything before attending,” Thompson said. “Just be mindful, listen, ask questions when appropriate and respect what is happening around you.” Alcohol and drugs are prohibited, and pets are not permitted on the powwow grounds, with the exception of service animals. Visitors may bring lawn chairs, but seating around the dance arena is reserved for dancers. Do not walk across the arena. **Plan your visit** The Akwesasne Powwow runs Sept. 12 and 13 at Lamoureux Park in Cornwall. Gates open at 10 a.m., with Grand Entry at noon both days. General admission is $10 for one day or $15 for a weekend pass. Admission for children ages six to 12 is $5 for one day or $7 for the weekend. Children five and younger and adults 65 and older are admitted free. Admission is paid at the gate. Visitors travelling from the United States must report directly to the Canada Border Services Agency crossing in Cornwall before attending. For updated schedules, parking and transportation information, visit the[ Akwesasne Powwow website](https://www.akwesasnepowwow.com/). Come prepared to listen, learn, eat well and spend time at the circle. The rest of the experience will meet you there. 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