Okotoks celebrates Indigenous culture this weekend

Indigenous culture, art, music, and tradition take centre stage in Okotoks this weekend as the 2026 Powwow, Tipi Camp and All-Indigenous Artisan Market returns to the Viking Rentals Centre.

The annual event reflects the Town's commitment to truth and reconciliation and builds on a historic moment: in June 2023, Okotoks Mayor Tanya Thorn and CAO Elaine Vincent were ceremonially transferred a Blackfoot-style painted lodge (tipi) by Blackfoot elders and knowledge keepers. That transfer sparked the town's first Tipi Camp and All-Indigenous Artisan Market — called Iitohpoom'op, a Blackfoot word meaning "store" — with a competition Powwow added in 2025.

"We are so excited to host our annual Powwow, Tipi Camp and All-Indigenous Market again in 2026, and invite the community to come together to celebrate and learn from the rich cultures and traditions of Indigenous peoples," said Mayor Thorn.

Over the weekend, visitors can experience incredible dancers, drummers, and live music; explore handcrafted goods from Indigenous artisans; enjoy food truck fare and activities for all ages; and gather around the tipi for fireside stories told by Blackfoot elders.

The schedule: Friday (May 29) features the All-Indigenous Artisan Market from 4 to 8 p.m. and Fireside Stories at the Tipi Camp from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday (May 30) opens with a special council meeting in the tipi (10 a.m. to 12 p.m.), followed by the artisan market (12 to 8 p.m.), Competition Powwow (1 p.m. Grand Entry), Mini Tipi Races (2 to 5 p.m.), and an Indigenous High School Graduation Ceremony (5 p.m.). Sunday (May 31) features the artisan market (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and another Competition Powwow (1 p.m. Grand Entry).

The Powwow and Artisan Market are indoors in the Infinity Paving Arena and Events Hall; the Tipi Camp is set up in Howard Park (229 Woodhaven Dr.). More details at okotoks.ca/powwow.