Four Indigenous experiences you’’ll love in South Eastern Ontario
To truly experience Indigenous culture, your journey begins with connecting through the cornerstones of cultural insight, authenticity and meaningful connection. Discover our neighbours through authentic Indigenous experiences with the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte in Tyendinaga - the birthplace of The Peacemaker, and Cornwall Island - home to the Mohawk Community of Akwesasne.
Experience a traditional Pow Wow
Akwesasne Pow Wow
The Akwesasne International Pow-Wow is held annually in September on the weekend immediately following Labor Day.
On the shores by the beautiful St. Lawrence River, visitors can enjoy a two-day event with good music, good food and good company. The Akwesasne Pow-Wow brings together the best Native artisans, drummers and dancers from this region. Enjoy and take part in the 'fastest dance on two feet', with our Iroquois Smoke Dancers. This dance got its name back when the people would dance around the fire pit causing air to circulate, and thus helping the fire embers ignite.You will have an opportunity to purchase some homemade Native food while you browse through the vendor's area to find that one-of-a-kind keepsake.
Find the most up-to-date event info here
The Tyendinaga Traditional Pow Wow
This vibrant and traditional event takes place annually in August. The Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte come together with brothers and sisters from other First Nation communities to socialize, dance, sing, and honor the ceremonies of our Ancestors.
Everyone welcome!
A celebration of ancestry and the ceremonies they passed down. With over 90 Indigenous vendor booths, visitors of all ages can spend the day immersed in traditional food, arts and culture.
Find the most most up to date event info here
Lil Crow Cabins
‘The perfect place to unwind under the stars or out on the lake canoeing’. That’s the sentiment from guests who experience this special space nestled along the shores of the Bay of Quinte in Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory. Uniquely adorned with local Indigenous objects and antiques, LiL Crow Cabins has an adults-only retro vibe – and is the oasis you have been searching for when dreaming of relaxing. Showcasing a fully independent cabin, complete with kitchenette, sitting area, a private hot tub and gazebo, the cabin is an oasis of re-connection. If you’re looking for a little more independence, the unique shoreside Pods offer a way to enjoy glamping and offer beautiful views over the Bay of Quinte. Visit the website.
Native North American Travelling College
Located on Cornwall Island, the Native North American Traveling College is dedicated to the preserving and cultivation of Kanienkehaka culture and history through their museum collections, multi-media productions and immersive cultural presentations. The Cultural Center has been instrumental in preserving and maintaining the culture, history, and language over the last 50 years! Offering Virtual and In-Person Tours, presentations, and immersive demonstrations, and much more! Cultural Educators continue to promote and preserve Kanienkeha language, culture, and history... not only for their own sake but to foster a greater appreciation and understanding in outside communities. “The objectives of NNATC are to reach people, inform them and give them a better understanding of our culture and heritage.” Visit their website.
Rebecca Maracle Mohawk Feathersmith
Located on Highway 49 in Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory between Belleville and Napanee, Rebecca Maracle Gallery & Gifts showcases the work of a multi-talented artist, traditional Medicine Healer and a member of the Haudenosaunee. Rebecca’s work has won numerous awards and can be found in private collections around the world.
“I have been taught to pass along my heritage and my beliefs through my traditional style of artwork. I am humbled and never take for granted the medicine gifts and artistic abilities the Creator has given me. It is my desire to share with you the strength and beauty in nature, the creativity of my people and my culture captured in my original designs. It is important for me to acknowledge all of Creation in this process and to bring awareness about all parts of who we are, the Physical, Mental, Emotional and Spiritual faces we all hold. I meditate on every piece I create. The energy of each piece has the ability to attract to it the person who needs awareness. If you are open and receptive to it, it then can help to heal on a deeper level.”
Chill Baskets
An Akwesasne native, Carrie Hill weaves black ash and sweetgrass Mohawk baskets. This basketmaking tradition goes back generations in her family using materials found in Akwesasne. Carrie first learned how to make Mohawk baskets from her aunt and found that she had a knack for it at a young age. She has since started her own basket-making business making custom baskets, woven jewelry and other woven works of art. She blends traditional techniques and her style to craft her coveted creations.