Image: VYPER / One of British Columbia's largest Indigenous powwows returns to the Fraser Valley this weekend.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Indigenous Powwow in the Fraser Valley

One of B.C.’s largest Indigenous powwows returns to the Fraser Valley this weekend

Jul 10, 2025 | 9:10 AM

MISSION — One of British Columbia’s largest Indigenous powwows returns to the Fraser Valley this weekend.

The Visionary Youth Peers for Equity and Revitalization (VYPER), an Indigenous youth-led group, will hold its annual Reclaiming Youth Powwow Friday, July 11 to Sunday, July 13 on the grounds of the former St. Mary’s Residential School in Mission.

The free event is a celebratory event while integrating themes of cultural reclamation of education. The powwow is part of VYPER’s broader mission to help Indigenous youth reconnect with their roots.

According to the Indigenous Youth Reconciliation Barometer, upwards of 80 per cent of Indigenous youth say they struggle to connect with their culture. Based in Abbotsford, VYPER hosts events and activities that give youth the opportunity to learn and participate in important Indigenous traditions such as drumming, dancing, language, and ceremony. This enables youth to build community and connections with their Elders and each other.

Now in its fourth year, VYPER’s Powwow has become one of the largest Indigenous cultural gatherings in the province. Last year’s event drew over 8,000 spectators, supporters and participants. This year, VYPER expects to welcome even more dancers, drummers and guests.

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The weather forecast for Mission is calling for sunny skies and warm temperatures in the mid to upper 20s from Friday to Sunday.

Enbridge, an energy transportation company that operates the Westcoast natural gas pipeline system in B.C., is a longtime supporter of VYPER and its outreach programs.