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Coming up in Cowichan: Heritage Fair this weekend; MacGregor opens campaign office; Pow Wow

Annual Pow Wow starts Friday in Duncan
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Cowichan-Malahat-Langford MP Alistair MacGregor. (Photo by Bernard Thibodeau)

Annual Pow Wow starts Friday in Duncan

The annual Pow Wow, held at the Siem Lelum soccer field in Duncan, starts this Friday, Aug. 8 with the grand entrance at 7 p.m.

Dancing and cultural pageantry continue the next day, from 1-3 p.m. and again in the evening starting at 7 p.m. The event concludes with even more dancing from 1-3 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 11

No alcohol or drugs are allowed at the event.

The theme for 2019 is remembering missing and murdered First Nations women, but that does not mean the event is only for aboriginal people. Everyone from the wider community is invited to come and enjoy this colourful celebration of First Nations culture and tradition.

Organizers say they are hoping that 10 drumming groups will join them for the pow wow, bringing their energy and unique sounds to the celebration as well. Elders and dancers are honoured and fed as part of the event, and although there is no charge for entry, donations at the gate are welcomed.

A wide variety of vendors are also coming to the pow wow, some of them from as far away as the prairies. The pow wow itself is not part of Cowichan Tribes culture and tradition but it is a unique event that continues to bring together people from different cultures and all ages to share the beautiful songs through the heartbeat of the sacred drum, unique dancing styles, and regalia from across the country.

Heritage Fair and Family Picnic this Sunday

Whole families come together for free, old-fashioned, unplugged fun to celebrate Shawnigan’s past at the annual Heritage Fair and Family Picnic put on by the Shawnigan Lake Historical Society.

On Sunday, Aug. 11, from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Elsie Miles Park in Shawnigan Lake village, marvel at artisans demonstrating bygone-era skills such as weaving, quilting and carving.

Participate in old-timey races, play carnival games and get dressed up for a vintage photo in the on-site photo studio.

Witness the exciting eye candy that is a line-up of vintage vehicles from the 1920s to the 1960s.

Visitors are encouraged to share stories from the good ole days and appreciate others’ either online at Shawnigan Lake Museum’s Facebook page or at the Memory Tent. Pack a picnic for the family and head out to the lawn at Elsie Miles/Dougan Park.

MacGregor holding open house to open office

NDP MP Alistair MacGregor will officially open his office for the fall federal election campaign this month.

On Sunday, Aug. 18 at 2 p.m. everyone is invited to 295 Trunk Rd. in Duncan for refreshments, food and the chance to mingle. There will be a blessing and speeches at approximately 2:30 p.m., and MacGregor promises a special guest.

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