Gimli’s Pavilion Park was packed with entertainment, games, food and Artisan vendors Saturday for the 2nd Annual Red River Metis Day Gathering.
Dynamic duo
Crafting workshops, yard games and a fun foam pit had the children busy throughout the day, with water and popsicles provided to beat the heat.
Riverton and District Friendship Centre catered the event with Bannock Tacos, refreshments and plenty of water throughout the day.
Fiddle player Dylan Gaudry and band The Breeze kicked off the afternoon with live music, performing two sets in the heat before breaking for water and shade. They continued playing while the United Thunder dancers wowed all in attendance with their masterful footwork.
Express Photo by Rayme Thomson
Dean Davis taught an eager group of beginners an introduction to Jigging, and Jason Leclerc taught how to play the spoons.
Jason Lepine and Ben Page had toes tapping with some classic fiddle and guitar, and included a lovely tribute to Metis musician, singer and songwriter Ray St. Germaine, who was being laid to rest that afternoon.
Artisan Vendors included Mama Jude’s Candles, Busy Bear Beads, Quen T’essentielle Aromatherapy, John’s Jams, Koko’s Beading, Moe’s Muks, Pretty Prairie Creations, Bannock N’ Bears, Lii Rasaad by Syd, Shoni Cree’s, and Fox n’ Fuddle. Metis vendors included the Louis Riel Institute, Metis Environment & Climate Change, MMF Housing Dept, Metis Mobile Clinic, Metis Citizenship, Red River Metis Gimli Local Merch and the Metis Music Van.
Businesses from near and far sponsored the event with overwhelming support.
Sponsors and Silent Auction Donations were provided by the East Interlake Watershed Dstrict, Lakeview Auto, Hope for Marriage Coaching, Access Credit Union, The Lakeview Resort, Salon 41, Tergesens, The Viking Inn, TNA, Gimli Home Hardware, Interlake Brewing Co., BK Lash, SCS Creative Studio, River Rock Massage Therapy, CJ 107, Volasha, The Winnipeg Jets, and The Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
As well, the Red River Metis Gimli Local received generous Grants from the RM of Gimli, Metis Citizenship and were presented with a $3,100.00 cheque from the Westshore Community Foundation at the gathering.
The Red River Metis Gimli Local is very grateful for all of the love and support and extend heartfelt thanks to all who attended and contributed to the gathering.
