Smiths Falls council has approved a one-time $40,000 budget increase to ensure the 2026 Spirit of the Drum Pow Wow goes ahead as planned.
The funding, approved at Monday’s committee of the whole meeting, will cover a shortfall created by lower-than-expected grant funding. The money will come from the town’s Tax Stabilization Reserve.
Town staff said the annual Pow Wow has become an important part of Smiths Falls’ commitment to reconciliation, cultural awareness and community building, while also attracting visitors from across the region.
The municipality budgeted $5,000 for the event this year and has secured about $26,000 in external funding. However, the total cost of hosting the 2026 Pow Wow is projected to be about $71,000, leaving a $40,000 gap.
According to the report, major expenses include honoraria and travel costs for dancers, drummers, elders and knowledge keepers, along with accommodations, equipment rentals, transportation and other event logistics needed to deliver what staff described as a culturally authentic and respectful gathering.
Staff said two additional grant applications worth a combined $20,000 are still under review, but funding decisions will not be made until after the event. If either application is successful, the money will be used to reduce the town’s contribution.
The report warned that cancelling or scaling back the event would affect commitments already made to performers and Indigenous partners and could undermine the cultural integrity of the Pow Wow.
Staff recommended the additional funding, saying the event continues to provide significant cultural, social and community benefits for Smiths Falls and the surrounding area.
