Portage la Prairie marked Louis Riel Day on Monday, Feb. 16, with a day full of Métis culture, family activities, and community connection. About 600 people were expected to gather at the MNP Building to enjoy music, dance, and cultural demonstrations before the afternoon’s hockey tribute. “We had our open ceremonies, and we're happy to have representation from the City of Portage la Prairie, the RM of Portage, and the Métis Southwest region, as well,” notes Wesley Hannah, chairperson of the MMF Portage Local. Related stories: Terriers blank Blizzard on Louis Riel Day Local historian shares Portage’s link to Louis Riel Hannah adds, “We've been planning since November to have it done, and there's a lot of time spent on it... We're quite proud to go ahead and make everything work out.” Volunteers played a key role in making the day possible. Hannah remarks, “We have approximately 20 to 25 people putting on this event.” Growing participation and pride The Portage Local has seen membership growth in recent months. “We had about 2,000 members last year, and this year we're approximately a little bit more than 2,500 citizens. Generally, we have monthly meetings, and during our monthly meetings, we have anywhere from 30 to 50 new citizens coming to the meetings and applying,” says Hannah. He continues, “People are noticing the programs that we are providing. I think that there's a new thought out there that Métis are proud of who they are and that they want to go ahead and become citizens for the many different programs within Portage and within the Southwest region and the Manitoba Metis Federation as a whole.” Hannah reflects on the day’s significance. “This is a third term for me, and I'm so proud… This term, I want to go ahead and try to give back, and I think that's what I've done with the executive and the volunteers. I'm very proud of that. I think it's a good time to be a Métis person,” he notes. Family activities and cultural displays Attendees enjoyed a variety of family-friendly events. Hannah mentions, “We've got our entertainment, our kids zone, our elder zone. We are giving away hot dogs, Bannock and soup at the canteen. Then we have horse-drawn wagon rides and also a fire outside for Bannock kits and marshmallows. There are lots of things to do.” The celebration featured a lively lineup of performers showcasing Métis culture. Spot dances and jigging demonstrations were led by Eric Nash, Demi St. Goddard, and Janelle Houle, delighting attendees with energetic footwork and traditional routines. Live music added to the festive atmosphere, with performances by Back Forty and Métis fiddler Sylvie Dion, while Krista Rey took to the stage to perform the anthem. Hannah adds, “Louis Riel was the founder of Manitoba, and we're so proud to be able to go ahead and do something for that cause. We worked very hard over the years. We've worked hard, and we think that this represents a very good cause.” The celebration concluded with a Louis Riel Day Classic hockey game, where the Portage Terriers extended their winning streak with a 5-0 shutout over the Northern Manitoba Blizzard. The Manitoba Metis Federation held a tribute recognizing Terrier alumnus and Métis hockey player Adam Calder and conducted a sash ceremony for current Métis Terriers Logan Cunningham and Donavan Bodnar. Louis Riel Day provided Portage residents an opportunity to celebrate Métis culture, connect with their community, and enjoy a day of entertainment, education, and family fun.