The Manitoba government is encouraging Manitobans to shop, cook, dine and celebrate the quality and diversity of local foods and cuisine by participating in Food Day Canada on August 3.

“This is a day for Manitobans to celebrate all things Canadian and enjoy local ingredients, food and beverages, as well as recognizing those farmers, fishers, chefs and researchers who contribute to our wonderful food and our thriving agriculture sector here in Manitoba,” said Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn.

The minister noted the province issued a proclamation affirming August 3 as Food Day Canada in Manitoba. The legislative building will be illuminated red after dark all weekend to shine a light on Canadian cuisine.

Since it’s inception in 2003, Food Day Canada’s mandate is to raise awareness of Canada’s diverse ingredients, rich supply chain and storied agri-food history, and it has become one of the country’s largest and longest-running celebrations of the people and products that make Canada’s food industry great, noted Kostyshyn.

This year’s theme celebrates Canadian hospitality, starting with the essence of sharing.

Manitobans are encouraged to visit fooddaycanada.ca, share their stories about how they are celebrating Canadian and local food and farming. The website includes mapped locations of chefs, restaurants and events offering creative menus and highlighting locally grown and Canadian foods.