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The stɑl'əw̓ Pow Wow returns to the Langley Events Centre next month for its fifth year, and it's open to everyone. More than 500 dancers, an all-women's drum group competition, Indigenous food vendors, and a vibrant market make for a full weekend. Organizers say there's no better way to experience it than to simply show up.

– Emily

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One of the Fraser Valley's most significant annual gatherings is back. The stɑl'əw̓ Pow Wow returns to the Langley Events Centre September 11–13, bringing together Indigenous communities from across BC, Canada, and the United States for three days of dancing, drumming, singing, art, food, and cultural celebration.

Hosted by the Indigenous women-led stɑl'əw̓ Arts & Cultural Society, the Pow Wow is open to everyone — first-timers and returning visitors alike.

"It's really a reclamation of our identity, connecting and reconnecting with other Indigenous communities," says Society Manager q̓ʷɑt̓ic̓ɑ, Phyllis Atkins. "It's a safe and inclusive event, welcoming people of all ages and backgrounds to attend. We really want people to come and experience it, attend and be a part of it. There's no better way."

Saturday is the biggest day of the weekend, culminating in an evening Grand Entry when more than 500 dancers make their way into the arena together in vibrant regalia. Welcome ceremonies will be led by representatives from q̓ic̓əy̓ (Katzie), q̓ʷɑ:n̓ƛ̓ən̓ (Kwantlen), meθxʷey̓ (Matsqui), and səmyámə (Semiahmoo) First Nations.

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🎪 Hope Brigade Days returns September 11–13, with Finger Eleven headlining Saturday night, a demolition derby, motorcycle stunt shows, a 50-vendor Briggie Bazaar, and a new shuttle service between downtown Hope, Kawkawa Lake, and Silver Creek. [Hope Standard]

😷 An air quality warning remains in effect for the Eastern Fraser Valley from Abbotsford to Hope due to lingering wildfire smoke. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity and keep windows closed. [Hope Standard]

🗳️ Harrison councillor Leo Facio has announced he is running for re-election in October, seeking his latest term after first being elected in 1993 and serving four terms as mayor. [Agassiz-Harrison Observer]

🎁 About 50 members of the Rotary Club of Chilliwack assembled roughly 200 comfort kits for wildfire evacuees from the Bald Range and other Okanagan-area fires on August 14. [Fraser Valley Today]

🏡 Adult children of seniors are helping their parents decide whether to age in place. This free guide helps everyone figure it out together.*

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Conversation Circle at Mission Library: A free weekly English conversation practice group runs every Wednesday evening at Mission Library in partnership with Mission Literacy in Motion.

Free Archives Tour in Chilliwack: A behind-the-scenes tour of the Chilliwack Archives at Evergreen Hall on August 28, exploring rare historical collections and over 100 years of preserved community history. Pre-registration encouraged.

Juvee Skate East in Hope: A free weekly drop-in at HMI Skatepark in Hope every Friday from 2:30–5:30 PM, with food, friends, and fun for youth.

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