Another major summer event in Kamloops has been cancelled because of COVID-19.

The 41st Annual Kamloopa Powwow – which was to take place over the August long weekend from July 31 to August 2 – will not be going ahead this year. The event attracts thousands of people to the Powwow Grounds on the Tk’emlups the Secwépemc Reserve, but organizers say they want to protect the health and safety of all participants.

“It was a difficult but necessary decision to join the efforts of many citizens, communities, businesses and organizations against the spread of the COVID-19 virus,” said Delyla Daniels. the president of the Kamloopa Powwow Society.

She says the decision to cancel also comes after word from Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry, that there won’t be large events held this summer.

“KPS respects the decisions of Canada, the Province, the Secwépemc Nation, and the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc,” Daniels noted.

“Canada has declared a Public Health Emergency, the Secwépemc Nation has [also] declared a State of Emergency, and the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc has suspended all facility bookings.”

Daniels says organizers are looking forward to celebrating at next year’s powwow.