Winnipeggers celebrate Louis Riel Day with festivities at Fort Gibraltar

Festival du Voyageur was the place to be this Holiday Monday, as hundreds of families flooded into the historic grounds of Fort Gibraltar to check out everything that Manitoba’s largest winter festival has to offer.

From live performances by local musicians to breathtaking art displays, and even a special guest appearance from Willie Jefferson and his Blue Bombers teammates. There was something for the whole family to enjoy at the 55th edition of Festival Du Voyageur.

Executive director Breanne Lavallee-Heckert is proud of how her team adjusted on the fly, With this year’s unseasonably mild temperatures and lack of snow.

“It’s beautiful the sun is shining, I’m sure Louis is here in spirit so we are very honoured to welcome everybody here to celebrate this historic day,” said Lavallee-Heckert.

“We’ve been really proud to show the innovative spirit of our artists and their talents as well, just really happy to bring that feel of the sculptures and that visual art component to the festival.”

READ MORE: Louis Riel portrait updated to recognize Métis leader as first premier of Manitoba

Despite the lack of snow, Lavallee-Heckert believes the warmer temperatures have played a role in drawing more families to this year’s festival.

“We haven’t finalized all of our numbers, but I think we are looking a little better than last year, so I think those warmer temperatures are definitely encouraging people to come out.”

Located on the grounds where Louis Riel’s grandparents had their farm, the Festivals Director of Heritage, Colin Mackie says it’s an amazing chance for locals to celebrate and learn about the area’s rich history.

“It’s a great opportunity for people to come and celebrate the fur trade era and celebrate our roots as Manitobans, especially on a day like Louis Riel day where we can reflect on our fascinating heritage and important past in Canadian history,” said Mackie.

For one of Monday’s performers, Indigenous recording artist Desiree Dorion. It’s a special day, paying tribute to Riel while also celebrating local artists.

“It’s a really great time for people to be out, remembering that, remembering the history of this province, while taking in some fun and music at the same time,” said Dorion.