The annual Opaskwayak Indigenous Days celebration is once again preparing for one of its most anticipated cultural events, the Indigenous Days Princess Pageant.

 

Held each August in Opaskwayak Cree Nation, the pageant is an important tradition that celebrates Cree culture, youth leadership, and community pride.

 

The various categories include the senior, junior, tiny tots, and angel categories, which are open to girls ages 5 to 18.

 

Contestants who enter the pageant take part in a number of activities throughout the festival week. Participants introduce themselves on stage; give short speeches about their culture or community, and present traditional clothing or regalia.

 

To enter the pageant, you can contact Nicole Ducharme-Chief at 431-355-0476.

 

Once registered, contestants must attend orientation meetings and practice sessions to prepare for the event.

 

On the night of the pageant, judges evaluate contestants on qualities such as confidence, cultural pride, community involvement, and their ability to represent Opaskwayak Cree Nation.

 

Winners in each age category are crowned and go on to serve as cultural ambassadors for the year.