Portage la Prairie held a 116th birthday celebration on Monday at the Portage Regional Library with Cake and tastes from around the world.

City Council members stood by while Mayor Sharilyn Knox cut the cake on the city's 116th birthday. Citizens enjoyed hot chocolate and coffee from the Philippines and Ecuador, as well as teas from Bangladesh and India. 

Portage la Prairie Community Revitalization Corporation Community Engagement Coordinator, Lorna Knight, says it was nice to see the community come together to embrace Portage's diverse cultures while celebrating the 116th birthday.

"What could go better?" Knight said with a smile.   

City Councilor Ryan Espey was on hand and said he was glad to see a celebration for the community's longevity.

"We have a rich history with a lot of diversity in our community, and I am looking forward to all the great things coming as well," added Espey.

Portage Learning and Literacy Centre Settlement Coordinator Miriam Ghitale pointed out that her favourite part of the event was seeing people enjoy different tastes worldwide.

"I work with newcomers to Canada, so I enjoy going to the store and seeing people from all over."

Ghitale noted that she enjoys living in Portage, and for anyone who doesn't, they should leave and return.

"Then they'll like it," Ghitale said tongue in cheek.

The Settlement Coordinator added that she appreciated everyone who helped make the Winterfest and birthday event a hit.