Experience the Energy and Spirit of Indigenous Culture at the 2025 Calgary Stampede Powwow

Step into the spirit of tradition and competition at the Calgary Stampede Powwow, presented by TC Energy, as it returns to the Scotiabank Saddledome on July 12 and 13 from 12 to 6 p.m.

This high-energy, two-day event brings together top dancers, drummers, and singers from across North America in a powerful celebration of Indigenous culture, community, and artistry. Free with admission to Stampede Park, the Powwow builds to an electrifying finale as performers compete for their share of a $200,000 prize pool—one of the largest in North America.

“Each year, the Calgary Stampede Powwow becomes more than just an event—it’s a powerful celebration of pride and culture,” says Cheryl Crowchief, Powwow Coordinator at the Calgary Stampede. “I’m grateful to be trusted once again in this role, and each time I’m amazed by the energy and spirit of the dancers and drummers who gather in Treaty 7 territory. Whether you’re returning or attending for the first time, I invite you to experience the beauty of our traditions and the unity of our communities.”

Attendees can come and go as they wish to witness world-class dancers and drummers competing in various categories, including Men's Fancy, Women's Fancy, Men's Traditional, Women's Traditional, Men's Grass, Men's Chicken, Women's Jingle, and Men's Buckskin. The competition features multiple age groups: teens (13–17), junior adults (18–34), senior adults (35–54), and golden age (55+).

Each performance will showcase stunning regalia, breathtaking skill, and powerful storytelling through movement and music, led by four emcees, including Daniel “Moss” Wildman from the Stoney Nakoda Nation.

“I’ve been actively involved with the Calgary Stampede since its 100th anniversary in 2012, including serving as an emcee on the old south side of the park,” says Wildman. “It’s an honour to be invited back to emcee the 2025 Calgary Stampede Powwow, representing Treaty 7 alongside a lineup of respected and well-known emcees from across Canada and the United States.”

The Calgary Stampede Powwow will additionally highlight talented First Nations drum groups, including Blacklodge, Black Otter, Bullhorn, Chiniki Lake, Eyahey Nakoda, Krazy Creek, Mountain Cree, Poundmaker, Tatanka Kuwa and Tha Cree, who will each contribute their unique sound to the competition as they perform throughout the event.

More than a competition, the Calgary Stampede Powwow is a gathering grounded in culture, connection, and celebration. Guests will experience the vibrancy of Indigenous traditions brought to life through powerful performances, awe-inspiring regalia, and the heartbeat of the drum.

For those looking to deepen their understanding, Elbow River Camp, presented by Enbridge, offers a daily celebration of Treaty 7 First Nations culture from July 4 to 13. Visitors can connect with community members, explore handcrafted art, and enjoy traditional food like fresh bannock. Learn more at calgarystampede.com/elbowrivercamp.

For photos and videos, check out the Calgary Stampede Powwow media package here.

About the Calgary Stampede

The Calgary Stampede celebrates the people, the animals, the land, the traditions and the values that make up the unique spirit of the west. The Calgary Stampede contributes to the quality of life in Calgary and southern Alberta through our world-renowned Stampede, year-round facilities, western events and several youth and agriculture programs. Exemplifying the theme We’re Greatest Together, we are a volunteer-supported, not-for-profit community organization that preserves and celebrates our western heritage, cultures and community spirit. All revenue is reinvested into Calgary Stampede programs and facilities.

For more information, please contact: 

Media Relations Team

E: media.relations@calgarystampede.com