Aug. 18, 2026

This July, Poplar River First Nation hosted its 151st Annual Treaty Days, bringing together community members, visitors and leaders from across Treaty 5 territories to commemorate Treaty 5 signing in 1875. The Northern team proudly supported the week-long celebrations by donating a boat, motor, and trailer package as a raffle prize.   

Pictured above: Community members gathered under the outdoor tent (left); Pine Creek First Nation Chief Derrick Nepinak and Elder John Valiquette at a Treaty Days ceremony.

Throughout the week, community members of all ages participated in cultural and recreational activities and friendly competitions including canoe and kayak races, ribbon skirt showcases, and jigging contests. The festivities concluded with a community barbeque, firework show, and performances by local dancers. Participants also took part in a raffle draw for a chance to win the boat, motor, and trailer grand prize worth over $16,000, donated by the store.     

Pictured above: Community member and land-based program worker Waylon Bittern with the Boat and Motor raffle prize donated by Northern and won by community member Mark Berens.

“We try to provide a memorable experience for all, especially the youth, so that we can help strengthen their ties with the community and their cultural identity,” shared Poplar River Health Resource Center Director Ian Houghton. “There’s a lot of effort and planning that goes into arranging such wide variety of activities and it’s only possible with the contributions and support from our partners like Northern.”

Alongside our store team, The North West Company is proud to support community celebrations honouring the rich heritage, culture, and traditions of the people we serve.