Manitobans are encouraged to participate in a wide variety of winter festivities that celebrate the histories of francophone, Métis and First Nations people at the 55th edition of Festival du Voyageur.
“Festival du Voyageur is the highlight of our winter – with an opportunity for Manitobans from all walks of life to come together and celebrate our French-Canadian and Métis roots,” said Premier Wab Kinew. “As we set out into the cold to enjoy the art, music and food of festival, we thank the many volunteers and staff who made this event possible. We look forward to seeing you all there!”
The Manitoba government provides nearly $325,000 annually to support the festival, which runs from Feb. 16 to 25 at Whittier Park and other trading posts in St. Boniface. Festival du Voyageur Inc. also received a one-time grant of $50,000 to support infrastructure improvements in Whittier Park to ensure a safe and secure site for festival 2024.
“The festival is an economic boost to our province and hosts a variety of events throughout the year, engaging an additional 100,000 visitors,” said Tourism Minister Glen Simard. “It is a pleasure to invite all Manitobans to experience an immersive cultural event where music, dancing, contests and historical interpretations come together to celebrate the histories of francophone, Métis and First Nations people.”
The festival received special designation in 2019 under the Celebrate Manitoba program, which recognizes long-running community events, fairs and festivals that have celebrated the province’s heritage for at least 50 years, the minister noted.
“It is with great joie de vivre that we mark the celebration of the 55th edition of Festival du Voyageur,” said Breanne Lavalee-Heckert, executive director, Festival du Voyageur. “From Feb. 16 to 25, Parc du Voyageur will welcome more than 75,000 festivalgoers to take in all that Festival du Voyageur has to offer. From music to food to fireside stories, Festival du Voyageur 2024 is sure to be a memorable experience for all. HéHo!”
Festival du Voyageur is held each February in Winnipeg’s St. Boniface neighbourhood and has grown to become Western Canada’s largest winter festival. It celebrates Canada’s fur-trading past and Manitoba’s unique French heritage and culture through entertainment, arts and crafts, music, exhibits and displays, noted the minister.
For tickets or to learn more about Festival du Voyageur, visit heho.ca.
