War Canoe Races 2022

Canoe culture has been a part of Indigenous Peoples' life and culture since time immemorial. Canoe racing is more than a sport - it’s a way of life.
Over the summer, racing teams from First Nation’s communities participate in traditional War Canoe races. We were proud to support the events this summer through our Community Investment program with $10,000 of in-kind travel to help competitors get to War Canoe races in 20 different communities. We value our relationship with Indigenous Peoples and our shared connection to these coastal waters. Our partnership is an opportunity to amplify the voices of First Nations through a deeply meaningful event.
The Four Fires Festival in False Creek was the culmination of the 20-event race schedule over the summer that attracted dozens of teams and hundreds of competitors from coastal communities on the west coast. Hear from Mike Billy Sr. hereditary name Lemxacha Siyam, from Squamish Nation on the Four Fires Festival and what canoe racing means to Indigenous Peoples.