The weekend gave Okotoks plenty to drum up community spirit.

Hundreds of people gathered at the Viking Rentals Centre in Okotoks for the town’s second annual competition powwow.

The two-day event featured dance and drum contests celebrating Indigenous culture and identity. Dance categories ranged from Tiny Tots to Golden Age competitors 55 and older.

The drum competition awarded $12,000 for first place, $9,000 for second place and $7,000 for third place. Motown from Red Lake, Minnesota, served as the host drum for the weekend.

During Saturday’s supper break, an Indigenous high school graduation ceremony was held in partnership with the Foothills School Division. An Indigenous auction was also held Sunday before the second day’s grand entry.

The Town of Okotoks said the powwow, held shortly before National Indigenous History Month begins in June, reflects its commitment to Truth and Reconciliation.