NCIAF Celebrates Indigenous Agriculture and Culture at the 2026 Calgary Stampede

This July, the NCIAF attended the Calgary Stampede, joining one of Western Canada's largest celebrations of agriculture while sharing the growing story of Indigenous agriculture, food sovereignty, and Indigenous food systems with thousands of visitors from across Canada and around the world.

Located in the agriculture barns, the NCIAF booth welcomed visitors throughout the Stampede with a traditional tipi and a stretched bison hide, creating an inviting space for meaningful conversations about Indigenous agriculture, bison restoration, community gardens, food sovereignty, and the work being led by Indigenous communities nationwide. The booth officially opened during Sneak-A-Peek, where many visitors were introduced to the NCIAF for the first time. Through educational resources, temporary tattoos, and engaging discussions, guests learned about the important role Indigenous agriculture continues to play in building strong, sustainable communities.

 

Throughout the two-week event, the booth remained a hub of activity. Visitors shared stories about projects happening in their own communities, explored funding opportunities, and discussed ways they could support Indigenous agriculture and food initiatives. Many expressed interest in volunteering, partnering with the NCIAF, applying for future opportunities, or donating to help strengthen Indigenous food systems. These conversations reflected the growing interest in Indigenous-led agriculture and the importance of building meaningful partnerships across the sector.

 

The NCIAF also participated in two Taste of Stampede events, engaging with the public alongside industry partners while showcasing Indigenous agriculture through a vibrant chef competition. Kallie Wood, President and CEO, Chris McKee, Senior Vice President, and Justice Acoose, Communications Specialist, represented NCIAF during the first event, while Monique Desjarlais, ReconciliAG Specialist, joined the team for the second.

The second event featured Noble Premium Bison, providing an opportunity to highlight the company's commitment to Canada's bison industry and the growing role of bison in Indigenous agriculture and food systems. Kallie Wood joined Kelly Long, CEO of Noble Premium Bison, and Mike Jacobson, COO of Noble Premium Bison, as judges for a chef competition featuring creative dishes prepared with Canadian bison.

Beyond the agriculture programming, NCIAF staff took part in several cultural celebrations at Elbow River Camp. The opening ceremonies welcomed Nations from across Treaty territories through traditional songs, dances, and introductions, accompanied by the powerful sound of drums and singers. The experience celebrated the strength, resilience, and rich cultural traditions of Indigenous Peoples while setting the tone for the weeks ahead.

 

One of the highlights of the Stampede was participating in the Grand Entry at the Calgary Stampede Powwow. Kallie Wood, Chris McKee, Monique Desjarlais, Michael Burechailo, Business Development Associate, and Youth Warriors Jacob Weaselchild and Chelaine Smokeyday-Dreaver had the honour of joining dancers, singers, drummers, and participants from across Turtle Island during the Grand Entry on two occasions. It was a meaningful opportunity to celebrate Indigenous culture while standing alongside communities from across North America.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The second week of Stampede featured several unforgettable moments at Elbow River Camp, including the Youth Powwow. The arena was filled with talented young dancers who participated with remarkable pride, confidence, and passion across the many dance categories. One of the most moving moments came as the Powwow Princesses and many of the youth introduced themselves in their traditional languages. Hearing so many young people speak their languages fluently was a powerful reminder that these languages, despite generations of decline, are being revitalized and passed on to future generations. Witnessing Indigenous youth carrying their languages, traditions, and identities forward with such pride was both inspiring and hopeful.

 

The Youth Powwow also featured outstanding cultural demonstrations, including Chris Kaquitts of Stoney Nakoda Nation, who shared the beauty and significance of the Men's Chicken Dance with spectators. Throughout the day, the energy, talent, and cultural teachings showcased the strength and resilience of Indigenous youth while celebrating traditions that continue to thrive through the next generation.

 

NCIAF staff also had the opportunity to celebrate Stoney Nakoda Nation Day, which honours the Nation's longstanding relationship with the Calgary Stampede. The day highlighted Stoney Nakoda history, traditions, and ongoing contributions while providing visitors with opportunities to experience performances, storytelling, and cultural celebration.

The closing ceremonies at Elbow River Camp provided a fitting conclusion to an unforgettable two weeks. Drum groups and singers travelled from tipi to tipi, gathering each family before everyone came together for the final ceremonies. Watching the camp unite in this way created a powerful sense of community, tradition, and togetherness. A particularly touching honour dance recognized loved ones who had passed on, demonstrating the deep respect, emotion, and unity that continue to define Indigenous communities.

As the Calgary Stampede came to a close, the NCIAF left with new relationships, strengthened partnerships, and countless meaningful conversations that will continue well beyond the event itself. The experience reinforced the growing momentum behind Indigenous agriculture and food systems while celebrating the cultures, traditions, and communities that continue to shape this important work. The NCIAF is grateful for the opportunity to share these stories and looks forward to building on the connections made throughout this year's Calgary Stampede.