MILLBROOK - Inclement weather and rain showers didn't dampen the spirit of the annual powwow held in Millbrook on the weekend.
With umbrellas in hand, Dartmouth's Cindy Nelson and Enfield's Lori Curadeau stood waiting for the powwow to begin. It's the second time the women have seen the event.
"We're here because we are all a part of this," said Nelson, adding she has worn native dress when younger, but she has never danced.
"It's in my heart and soul," added Curadeau, raising a hand to her chest over her heart.
"We're here for the dancing ... everything really."
Nelson said it's the native culture that draws her to the event, and that it's something "we should be more in tune to."
For Lucy Long, the powwow was a first for her and she wasn't sure what to expect.
"I can't wait for the surprise of it," said Long, who is visiting a friend in New Brunswick for 12 days.
"I've seen them before in places such as the Miramichi, but she's from Germany and hasn't seen one before," added Ingebory Lehnert, who lives in Port Elgin.
Listening to the drummers - host drum Stoney Bear Singers from Eskasoni First Nation and co-host drum Kitpu Singers - Long sat on a chair in the front with her camera in her lap.
"We're having a great time, I love it," she said.
Before the grand entry, male dancers performed a blessing while spectators stood.
The grand entry included flag bearers and Eileen Brooks carrying the eagle staff, as well as all dancers and special visitors.
The powwow started after a flag song, which is equivalent to a country's national anthem, prayer and dance to honour veterans of service, such as those with the Canadian armed forces.
"What's very interesting to me is the ‘no photos,' it's very interesting to see everyone pay their respects," said Long, referring to a number of special times, such as the blessing, where spectators are requested to respect a no photography or video rule.
With wide eyes, Long took in the ceremony - the dress, drumming, singing and dancing.
"The dress is very inspirational and very individual with a lot of detail," she said.
Along with the grand entry, a number of other events were a part of the powwow, including a hand drum competition, displays and demonstrations, and evening social and supper.
rtetanish@trurodaily.com
