Today was a great day to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day in Portage la Prairie. Held at Island Park this year and put on by the Portage Friendship Centre, executive director Shirley Bernard tells us why it's so necessary to celebrate.

"Summer solstice is always an important day for us," says Bernard. "It's a day where all of our partnerships get together, all the different cultures, we celebrate different accomplishments. It's a day of fun and enjoyment."

Mayor Irvine Ferris was there to take part in festivities. He shares why the day is so important to the city.

"Over the years, there's a big contribution being made not only to the country, but the community of Portage la Prairie, too. So this is the time to recognize those contributions."

The day included a free barbecue lunch, as well as a pow wow and jigging contest. Musicians Johnny Dietrich, Ken Wettlaufer and Colleen Bryce of the Sharpe Sisters performed. Local organizations and businesses were there to share in the day also.

Ferris notes the day saw the largest attendance in the city's history. Many schools and day cares also brought children to enjoy the day.