The Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) is inviting residents of Ste. Anne, Manitoba, to a free Louis Riel Day celebration at The Forks in Winnipeg on February 16, 2026. The MMF lists the event as taking place from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; some listings (Tourism Winnipeg) show programming beginning as early as 10:00 a.m. The celebration will feature traditional music, dancing and cultural displays to honour Louis Riel, long regarded as a founder of Manitoba and recently recognized as the province’s honorary first premier.
Families can enjoy a day of activities including a family dance party, jigging demonstrations and outdoor winter activities along the Nestaweya River Trail. Performers include Juno-winning entertainer Al Simmons (listed on Tourism Winnipeg and The Forks event pages), and cultural educators from the Louis Riel Institute are listed among MMF programming to share stories and lead activities.
Ste. Anne has a historical connection to the holiday: in 1869 local residents at what is now Sainte-Anne-des-Chênes resisted surveyors who were working without consultation. Local historians describe that 1869 incident as the first incident that helped trigger the Red River Resistance and the formation of Louis Riel’s provisional government.
This year’s event carries added significance following the passage of the Louis Riel Act, which formally recognizes Louis Riel as Manitoba’s honorary first premier. MMF President David Chartrand has said the day reminds Manitobans and Canadians of Riel’s leadership and the sacrifices he made to shape the province and the country.
Festivities will be held both inside the Forks Market and outdoors, with free, family-friendly programming — including hands-on crafts and live performances — so community members can learn more about Métis culture and history.
