Manitoba 150 - Métis Nation 2020 Winterlude Celebrations in the National Capital Region

2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Métis Nation joining the Canadian federation through the establishment of the Province of Manitoba as ’s fifth province through the efforts of President Louis Riel and his Provisional Government.

Louis Riel, the first premier of Manitoba and one of Canada’s founding fathers, was a strong defender of minority rights who fought to preserve Métis rights and culture. Elected three times as a Member of Parliament but unable to take his seat, Riel would lead the Métis and negotiate the entry of Manitoba into Confederation through the Manitoba Act 1870. This important part of Canadian history is worthy of recognition and cause for celebration.

We invite you to join the Métis Nation and our partners, Heritage Canada and Winterlude, as we begin to celebrate this milestone year.

Friday, January 31 Winterlude Kick-off

Louis Riel Sculpture Noon - 1:00pm Sparks and O’Connor International Ice Carving Challenge and Children’s Ice Pick

Performances by Métis fiddler Morgan Ginther, Rogers Stage 7:00pm - Kick-off Party Sarahmée, DJ NDN and Virginia to Vegas Sparks and Bank (outdoor) Saturday, February 1 Theatre Two performances of the play, 11:00am and 2:00pm Canadian Museum of History The Life of Louis Riel 100 Laurier St,

Scotia Great Hall 6:00pm - 10:00pm Métis Nation Gala - Manitoba 150 National Gallery of Canada

Sunday, February 2, 2020 10:30am - French Mass Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica Church Service 12 noon - English Mass 385 Sussex Drive,

Red River Métis Village Grand Hall 10:00am - 4:00pm Métis Elders, Michif speakers, Métis dancers and other Canadian Museum of History performers on main stage throughout the day 100 Laurier St, Gatineau Quebec

Douglas Cardinal Salon Métis songs and crafts for children 10:00am - 4:00pm Canadian Museum of History World renowned Métis Master Beader - Jennine Krauchi 100 Laurier St, Gatineau Quebec

Visit - Winterlude Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/winterlude/calendar-events.html