Stonewall residents are invited to celebrate Métis culture, winter recreation and community spirit during a Louis Riel Day event planned for Monday, Feb. 16 at the Heritage Arts Centre and surrounding Quarry Park.
The family-friendly celebration runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will feature a mix of outdoor activities, cultural programming and live music marking the provincial holiday honouring Métis leader Louis Riel.
Desiree Gillespie, chair of the Stonewall Métis Local, said recognizing Louis Riel Day through a community celebration is an important way for Stonewall to honour the history and lasting contributions of the Métis Nation.
“Louis Riel’s legacy is deeply connected to the values of rights, self-determination and community, which continue to shape our shared history today,” Gillespie said. “Celebrating this day together creates space for learning, reflection and reconciliation.”
She added the event also acknowledges the Métis citizens who live in Stonewall and their ongoing role in the community.
“Stonewall is home to many Métis citizens, and this recognition acknowledges their presence, culture and contributions within the community,” Gillespie said.
Activities planned throughout the day include arts and crafts, bannock cooked over an open fire, skating on the pond and tobogganing. Cross-country skis and snowshoes will also be available to borrow free of charge from the Heritage Arts Centre, giving attendees an opportunity to take advantage of winter conditions.
At 2 p.m., guests can enjoy live music by Métis fiddler Morgan Grace, whose performance will highlight the central role of fiddling in Métis culture and storytelling. Grace has been playing the fiddle since the age of four and is an accomplished performer who has appeared at events across Canada.
Her experience includes opening for Juno Award-winning artist William Prince and performing for organizations such as the Manitoba Métis Federation, Winnipeg Jets, Manitoba Moose and Winnipeg Goldeyes, as well as a performance at the Senate for the King and Queen.
Gillespie said organizers hope the event leaves a lasting impression on families and community members.
“Our hope is families and community members leave with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Métis history, culture and traditions,” she said. “More importantly, we hope they feel a sense of connection — to one another, to the stories shared, and to the Métis presence in the Stonewall area.”
She said events like the Louis Riel Day celebration provide opportunities for learning in a welcoming, hands-on environment.
“Ideally, people walk away feeling proud of our shared history and inspired to continue building respectful, inclusive community relationships,” Gillespie said.
Admission is $15 for a family of four, $7 per adult and $5 per student. Children aged two and under are admitted free.
Food will be available for purchase through a canteen, including hamburgers, hotdogs, drinks, chips and candy, while free bannock and hot chocolate will also be offered to attendees.
Louis Riel Day, observed annually on the third Monday of February, recognizes the life and legacy of Riel and the contributions of the Métis people to Manitoba’s history and identity. Community events such as Stonewall’s celebration aim to combine education, reflection and enjoyment in a way that is accessible to all.
For more information, visit the Town of Stonewall’s website or contact the Heritage Arts Centre at 1-204-467-7980.
