Frequently Asked Questions

  • Wi’kipaltimk, means “spiritual feast” in Mi’kmaw – it will be a three-day cultural gathering open to all. The event will bring together community, culture, and creativity through traditional teachings, live music, art, dance, storytelling, food, and family-friendly activities.

  • The gathering takes place Open Hearth Park, in Sydney, Nova Scotia, there will be multiple access points and plenty of free parking available nearby.

  • YES! Admission to Wi’kipaltimk is free. Some food vendors and artisan booths may have items for purchase, so it is best to plan accordingly for those items.

  • Yes. There will be no cash machines on-site, and while most vendors will offer Interac, it's a good idea to bring some cash just in case.

  • Absolutely! There will be multiple food trucks plus a permanent on-site canteen serving food and beverages throughout the event. You won’t need to leave the grounds to eat or grab refreshments.

  • Unfortunately the Fireworks Finale has been cancelled as a precaution and in observation of the Provincial burn ban that is in effect.   

  • Yes – BYOC (Bring Your Own Chair) is strongly encouraged. Seating is limited and, in some areas, reserved for Elders, so having your own lawn chair ensures you’ll be comfortable.

  • The Sunrise Ceremonies will take place on Saturday and Sunday. Please follow our social media channels for updates.

    The event grounds will have controlled access points for attendees to manage volumes in high traffic areas. Security and volunteers will be present throughout the site to assist guests.

  • Volunteers will assist immediately and guide any reports of lost children to the main Information Booth to help assist minors and their families as appropriate. We encourage attendees to take note of the info booth location and listen for announcements.

  • Yes! There will be a designated area for artist autograph sessions and merchandise Sales. Meet your favorite performers after their sets!

  • Main areas of the site are accessible, and volunteers will be available to assist. Seating is reserved for Elders, and there will be accessible washrooms available.

  • Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates, full event schedule, and site map once it becomes available.

  • This is the Maritimes so while the day can be very hot the evenings have been cooling off. A sweater or jacket is recommended for evening concerts

    • Dress for the weather – it’s a rain-or-shine event.

    • Bring sun protection – hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.

    • Don’t forget we encourage people to BYOC - bring your own lawn chair for comfort

  • Organizers have compiled a list of places to stay here: 

    Camping

    Hotels

    AirBnB

  • Dogs are not permitted near the Pow Wow Grounds and Drum Circle areas. Open Hearth Park does not have an officially designated off-leash dog park area. While the park does have walking trails where dogs are allowed on leash, the area formerly used as an off-leash dog park by some residents is no longer maintained as such and is not officially recognized by the Cape Breton Regional Municipality description