Manitoba's founder honoured during Louis Riel Day celebrations

Louis Riel Day events are taking place across Westman, with Manitoba Métis Federation locals hosting cultural activities, meals and youth fundraising; the Brandon Wheat Kings will wear special jerseys to support Métis youth.

Louis Riel Day events are being held across Westman as local Métis groups mark the province's founder and Métis culture. The Manitoba Métis Federation's southwest region is hosting gatherings that include children’s activities, music and traditional foods. The day is observed annually in Manitoba on the third Monday of February and reflects ongoing recognition of Riel’s role in the province’s founding. Organizers and Métis leaders described the events as opportunities to celebrate culture and pass heritage to younger generations. Events across Westman: - The Grand Valley and Westman locals are hosting an event at the MNP Hall at the Keystone Centre from noon until 4 p.m., with children’s activities, the Dauphin Friendship Centre Diversity Square Dancers and music by Nitelife, plus hotdogs, bison chili and bannock. - The Brandon Wheat Kings are playing at 2:30 p.m.; for a second year the team will wear a special jersey that will be auctioned to raise money for Métis youth activities, according to the MMF southwest region. - Minnedosa will hold an event at the Ukrainian Hall from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring games and refreshments. - The Dauphin celebration at the Métis Community Centre runs 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and includes a cribbage tournament and live entertainment. - Roblin’s event at the Roblin Community Centre (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.) will include bannock making, jigging workshops, wagon rides, live music, face painting and an artisan showcase. - Swan River celebrations at the Elbert Chartrand Friendship Centre run 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with cribbage, cultural activities, arts and crafts, and refreshments. Summary: These community events highlight Métis culture, local traditions and intergenerational sharing across Westman. Activities and fundraisers are scheduled for Monday at the listed venues, and the gatherings coincide with longstanding recognition of Louis Riel as a founder of Manitoba.