Pipe Ceremony
A pipe ceremony is a sacred ceremony. The Elder or Knowledge Keeper conducting the ceremony will offer a blessing for attendees of the Graduation Pow Wow, the graduates, and those who will join us to dance and spend the day. We welcome all to join us for the pipe ceremony to open our day of celebrating and honouring the graduates.
Please arrive before 9:45 a.m. to ensure you're seated before the start of the ceremony. The ceremony may last up to an hour and skirts will be available for those who would like to borrow one to wear for the ceremony.
After the pipe ceremony, guests may return to their seats in the visitors' area as preparations begin for the dancers and singers.
Please note: All visitors, community members and other UM graduates are asked to enter the Investors Group Athletic Centre gymnasium via the stairs/elevator to the third floor.
For the rest of the day, you are encouraged to stay and watch the many different types of beautiful pow wow dances, visit the craft tables on the third floor and attend the community feast following the honouring of the graduates at 1:30 p.m. The feast will be served in Investors Group Athletic Centre.
Please note that there are various times throughout the day when visitors are encouraged to come down to the pow wow floor. These may include Intertribal Dances and Specials like the Hoop Dance. The emcee will explain and announce these opportunities.
If you have any questions throughout the day, please look for volunteers wearing black t-shirts or staff/security helpers.