Louis Riel Day is a statutory holiday celebrated in Manitoba. It honors the life and legacy of Louis Riel, a Métis leader and founder of Manitoba, recognized for his pivotal role in advocating for the rights of Métis people and shaping Canadian Confederation.

Table of Contents

1. When is Louis Riel Day?
2. The History of Louis Riel Day?
3. What Do People Do on This Day?
4. More about Louis Riel

When is Louis Riel Day?

Louis Riel Day is observed on the third Monday of February in Manitoba, Canada.

The following is the list of Louis Riel Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Louis Riel Day? 

Louis Riel Day was first observed on February 18, 2008, making it the newest statutory holiday in Manitoba. The holiday was introduced by the Manitoba NDP government under Premier Gary Doer. It was created to align with mid-winter holidays in other provinces, like Family Day, while uniquely reflecting Manitoba's history and culture.

A public consultation process allowed Manitobans to suggest a name for the holiday. Several options were proposed, but Louis Riel Day was chosen to commemorate the province's founder and highlight the significant role of Métis culture in Manitoba's identity.

Louis Riel played a key role in Manitoba's entry into Confederation in 1870 through the Red River Resistance, ensuring Métis rights and cultural preservation were recognized. Riel fought for the recognition of Métis land rights, language and culture.

Despite being executed for treason in 1885 after leading the North-West Resistance, Riel is now celebrated as a defender of minority rights and a national hero. Naming the holiday after Riel symbolizes reconciliation and recognition of Métis contributions to Manitoba and Canada.

What Do People Do on This Day?

On Louis Riel Day, people in Manitoba engage in various activities to honor Louis Riel's legacy, celebrate Métis culture and enjoy a mid-winter break with family and friends.

People celebrate the holiday with Métis music performances, including traditional fiddle playing and jigging (a lively dance style). It is also popular for the storytelling sessions sharing Métis legends and the history of Louis Riel.

Community centers and schools host workshops on Métis crafts, beadwork and cultural traditions. Schools use the day to teach students about Louis Riel's contributions to Manitoba and Canada, often through storytelling, documentaries or art projects.

The Riel House, located in Winnipeg, offers educational programs about Louis Riel and the Métis people. Many people may visit the grave of Louis Riel in St. Boniface, where he is buried.

Some Manitobans dedicate the day to community service, helping at food banks or participating in events that foster community spirit.

For many, Louis Riel Day is an opportunity to spend time with family playing board games, sharing meals or enjoying winter fun outdoors. Some may visit local attractions or stay home for a cozy day off.

More about Louis Riel

Riel was born on October 22, 1844, in the Red River Settlement (now Winnipeg, Manitoba). He was of Métis descent, a community of mixed Indigenous and European ancestry. He was sent to Montreal to study for the priesthood but did not complete his studies. He returned to the Red River Settlement in 1868.

When the Canadian government purchased Rupert's Land from the Hudson's Bay Company without consulting its Indigenous and Métis inhabitants, tensions arose over land rights and cultural autonomy. Riel led the Métis in the Red River Resistance, establishing a provisional government to negotiate Manitoba's entry into Confederation. The resulting Manitoba Act (1870) ensured Métis rights to their land, recognized their culture and established Manitoba as Canada's fifth province.

In 1885, Riel returned from exile to lead the Métis in Saskatchewan, who were facing similar threats to their land and culture. The resistance ended with the Battle of Batoche, where federal troops defeated the Métis. Riel was arrested and tried for treason. Despite his defense that he acted to protect his people, he was convicted and executed on November 16, 1885, in Regina.

Riel is celebrated as the "Father of Manitoba" for his role in the province's creation and his advocacy for Métis inclusion in Confederation.