Louis Riel is recognized as an advocate of justice for the Métis people, but he represents much more. He helped lay the framework for minority rights and cultural co-operation, and is regarded as a founder of Manitoba. It is very important to remember Louis Riel’s contribution to Canada and specifically to recall that he was executed for being a persistent advocate for the rights of his people.

A resolution was passed by parliament citing that Louis Riel was the Founder of Manitoba on 10 March 1992. On 26 September 2007, Manitoba legislature passed a bill establishing a statutory holiday on the third Monday in February as Louis Riel Day, the same day some other provinces celebrate Family Day, beginning in 2008. The first Louis Riel Day was celebrated on 18 February 2008. This new statutory holiday coincides with the annual celebration of the Festival Du Voyageur in Winnipeg.

This is still a relatively new holiday to us, and we tend to treat it like a family day.

Things to do in Manitoba on Louis Riel day:

1. FortWhyte Alive Louis Riel Day Festivities Celebrate Louis Riel Day with voyageur games and a bannock roast with all the fixings. Details When: February 15, 2016 | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM Where: FortWhyte Alive, 1961 McCreary Rd, Winnipeg How much: Free with regular admission  
2. Festival de Voyageur Festival du Voyageur is a 10-day province-wide celebration of sights, sounds, snow and spirit. Every winter since 1970, Saint-Boniface, Winnipeg’s French quarter, is transformed into a winter paradise and becomes host to the largest winter festival in Western Canada. A detailed list of programs can be found on the event website. When: February 12 – 21, 2016 Where: 866 St. Joseph Street/Various venues, Winnipeg How much: Voyageur Park Day Pass: Adult (18 +) $18.00; Youth (13 – 17 years old) $11.00; Child (5 – 12 years old) $9.00; 4 and under – Free. Details 10 day pass: Adults – $32.00, Youth – $16.00, Child – $11.00  
3. Arctic Glacier Winter Park

Join us on the site for the official celebration of winter. Skate on 1.2 kilometres of trails, shoosh down the toboggan run, shimmy and find your way through the Great-West Life Interactive Ice Castle or try your tricks in the professionally designed Snowboard Fun Park. Enjoy FREE programming on Sundays beginning January 17 – February 28, including Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides, Snowboarding. Details When: Sundays, January 17 – February 28, 2016 | 1:30 – 4:30 PM Where: The Forks, Winnipeg How much: Free Family Fishing Weekend – No license required. Manitobans and visitors are invited to give fishing a try on water bodies with open fishing seasons (not in national parks). Keep in mind that fishing regulations still apply. – February 13 – 15, 2016 – Details