September 17-20, 2026 | Ovintiv Events Centre | Dawson Creek, BC
Northern BC's Largest Cultural Gathering
Four days of powwow, hand games, cultural camps, traditional food, artisan vendors,
and community connection. Free admission for everyone.
The Cultural Gathering of Nations is a celebration of who we are
and where we come from.
Admission Free
CGON is a drug and alcohol-free event. Admission is free for everyone. Opening day begins at 4:30 PM on Thursday, September 17. Gates open at 9:00 AM on all other days.
Join us for four days of culture, competition, and community.
Where Nations Gather
The Cultural Gathering of Nations is a celebration of First Nations culture. Seven nations come together to showcase and share their traditions. Come watch, learn, participate, and experience the living culture of Canada's First Nations people.
Now in its second year and growing, CGON welcomes families, Elders, youth,and visitors of all backgrounds. This is a drug and alcohol free event. Admission is free. Everyone is welcome.
Rooted in Treaty 8 Territory
The Cultural Gathering of Nations takes place on Treaty 8 territory, bringing together Nations from across the region. This gathering is built in partnership with the communities, leadership, and Elders who help shape and guide the event each year.
We honour the Nations whose land, culture, and presence make CGON possible.
What You Can Expect
Powwow
Competitive dance and drumming with some of the best dancers in the country.
Hand Games
Teams of 6 compete in one of the most exciting tournaments of the year. Open to adults and youth.
Cultural Teaching Area
Hands-on experiences connecting visitors to traditional knowledge and First Nations culture.
Artisan Marketplace
Shop directly from artists and makers. Booth space is available; apply now.
*Applications are now full for 2026*
Tea Dance
Community dances are open to everyone. Honoring tradition and bringing people together.
Food & Bingo
Traditional food vendors serving throughout the event, plus nightly bingo for all ages.
Compete at CGON 2026
Registration is open for both competitions. Spots are limited.
Powwow
Register as a dancer or drum group for the CGON 2026 competitive powwow. Categories for all ages and dance styles.
Hand Games Tournament
Enter your team in the CGON 2026 Hand Games tournament. Teams of 6. Adult entry is $1,000. Youth entry coming soon $500 a team.
Be Part of Something Bigger
CGON is built by community, for community. We need passionate volunteers to help make this gathering an experience no one forgets. Whether you have a few hours or the full four days, there is a role for you.
Artisan Marketplace
*Applications are now full for 2026*
Apply for an 8x8 or 16x16 booth in the CGON artisan marketplace. Open to all vendors. Booth space is limited.
Food Truck Vendor
Bring your food truck or food stand to one of BC's largest cultural gatherings. Serve thousands of visitors over four days.
Support the Cultural Gathering of Nations
Sponsoring CGON puts your organization in front of thousands of attendees from across BC and beyond. It is also a meaningful way to support cultural celebration and community connection in Northern BC.
Visiting Dawson Creek?
We have put together a complete visitor guide with hotels, campgrounds, restaurants, and things to do in Dawson Creek. Whether you are coming for the weekend or staying all four days, we want to make your trip easy and enjoyable.
News & Updates
Stay up to date on event announcements, sponsor news, and everything leading up to September 17-20, 2026.







