By Kerry J Newstead
CREDIT—On the last weekend of August, the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation held their 36th annual Three Fires Homecoming Powwow.
On Friday, August 26, 2024 there was a series of concerts to kick off the weekend celebration.
CREDIT—A young dancer in her bright regalia. 
CREDIT—Versai General-Maracle, from the Cayuga Nation, was ready to participate at the powwow. 
CREDIT—Sonny White from the Oneida of the Thames Nation wearing a Grass Dancing design that came to him in a dream. With help from his mother, they turned the dream into reality. 
CREDIT—Fancy Feather dancer DJ White from the Walpole Nation. 
CREDIT—Sandra Herkimer (right) of the New Credit Nation and her friend Lindy Nicholson from the Algonquin Nation in their regalia. 
CREDIT—Tyler Lavallee, Ziibai Lavallee, Lyrie Lavallee, Nova Ryle (children in the background, Niibin Bigcanoe (r) and Mark Lavallee) practice some drumming. 
CREDIT—The Missisaugas of the Credit First Nation Three Fires Homecoming Powwow and Traditional Gathering was held from Friday, August 26, 2024 to Sunday, August 28. Nearly 100 dancers showcased traditional regalia and dances, which the public could enjoy alongside tasty Indigenous foods and a variety of vendors and activities 
On Saturday and Sunday, guests were treated to the Grand Entry Ceremony where the Elders, Veterans, the Nations’ Royality, and the many dancers entered the Sacred Circle. All were welcomed by the various drum circles inside the dome.
On Saturday, the opening remarks were given by Ogiima Kwe Chief Clare Sault and the King’s representative, her Honourable Edith Dumont, the Lieutenant Governor General of Ontario.
The Master of Ceremonies called for an all-nation dance, where all the dancers could join in and the public was invited to join as well. Chief Sault, joined by Madam Dumont and her husband Tony Viscardi, took part in the dance.
Nearly 100 dancers were wearing their regalia. There are many styles of regalia, including traditional, fancy feather, grass dancers, and the jingle.
Besides the dances, people could enjoy some shopping various vendors, listening in on educational lectures, and sampling some traditional foods.
