Manitoba Government Supports Manito Ahbee Festival on its 20th Anniversary

The Manitoba government is supporting the 20th year of the Manito Ahbee Festival through a $395,000 grant, Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism Minister Nellie Kennedy announced today on the first day of the festival.

“For two decades, the Manito Ahbee Festival has provided an incredible opportunity for Manitobans and visitors alike to come together and connect to celebrate Indigenous art, culture, music and dance,” said Kennedy. “Our government sends its sincere congratulations to the festival’s leaders, organizers, participants and volunteers on reaching this incredible milestone.”

This year, the festival will feature the Red Road Cultural Clothing and Wearable Art Showcase, which will include the Red Road Runway, a red-carpet event showcasing Indigenous designers, artists and storytellers who weave tradition into modern, wearable art.

Additionally, the Manito Ahbee Festival hosts the second largest powwow in North America. The minister noted the two-day powwow continues to be one of the festival’s flagship events, attracting hundreds of dancers.

“As we celebrate our 20th anniversary this year, we are deeply grateful for this generous support which will allow us to elevate the Manito Ahbee Festival in new and exciting ways,” said Lisa Meeches, executive director, for the Manito Ahbee Festival. “This investment of $395,000 is not just funding – it’s a commitment to celebrating culture, fostering community and amplifying the voices of artists, storytellers and knowledge keepers. With these resources, we can create meaningful experiences that honour tradition while embracing innovation, ensuring that this festival continues to be a place of connection and inspiration for all. Thank you to the government of Manitoba for recognizing the wide-reaching impact of this festival and for helping us bring it to life in Winnipeg. We look forward to sharing an unforgettable celebration with all our guests this year.”

The Manito Ahbee Festival takes place at Red River Exhibition Park from May 16 to May 18.

For more information, visit www.manitoahbee.com/.

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For more information:

• Public information, contact Manitoba Government Inquiry: mgi@gov.mb.ca or 1-866-626-4862 or 204-945-3744.
• Media requests for general information, contact Communications and Engagement: newsroom@gov.mb.ca.
• Media requests for ministerial comment, contact Cabinet Communications: cabcom@manitoba.ca.

NT4