TERRACE, B.C. – The Terrace Sportsplex is alive with drumming and celebration as the X’maay Festival welcomes the community to a vibrant, three-day event honouring Nisga’a culture, tradition, and community.
Hosted by the Gitlaxdax Sayt K’ilim Gootihl Nisga’a Dancers, the festival’s name, “X’maay,” means “berry” in the Nisga’a language, symbolizing the summer harvest and the spirit of community gathering. The event is a vibrant, open invitation to all nations to come together to celebrate Indigenous strength, resilience, and joy.
The festival features a packed schedule of cultural performances, traditional food, and family-friendly activities running all weekend. Attendees can expect to see performances from ten Indigenous dance groups, participate in cultural activities, and connect with community members.
This celebration is a welcome addition to the summer calendar, offering a chance for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members to learn and celebrate together. The X’maay Festival runs from July 25 to 27 at the Terrace Sportsplex, and admission is free and open to all.
Weekend Schedule Highlights
Below is a look at some of the key events scheduled for the weekend. Please note, organizers have stated this is a tentative schedule.
Friday, July 25 (Doors open at 11:30 AM)
- 1:00 PM: Xbisuunt Dance
- 1:45 PM: Gitlaxdax A.D.D.
- 2:45 PM: Kermode Drummers
- 3:45 PM: Gitsegukla Gidaines Dancers
- 5:45 PM: Grand Entrance
- 7:30 PM: Gitlaxdax Sayt K’ilim Gootihl Nisga’a Dancers
Saturday, July 26 (Doors open at 11:30 AM)
- 1:00 PM: Haisla Braid
- 2:45 PM: Gitsegukla Gidaines Dancers
- 3:45 PM: Gitmaxmak’ay Nisga’a Dancers
- 5:00 PM: Drum Drill
- 7:30 PM: Gitlaxdax Sayt K’ilim Gootihl Nisga’a Dancers
Sunday, July 27 (Family Fun Day: 10 AM – 4 PM)
- Grand March
- Iss Making Contest
- Fried Bread & Jam Contest
- Clan Call Contest & Clan Dance Contest
- Indian Bingo
- Loonie Auction
- Photo Booth & Face Painting
- Build Your Own Shortcake
- Chubby Bunny
