We will be here on July 1st, offering an open, welcoming space for community to gather just as we’ve always done. This year we are also starting some new conversations and traditions to bring us all closer together.

Oodena and The Gathering Space in Niizhoziibean

We’ll open the day at 8AM with a morning ceremony led by Elders Wanbdi Wakita and Pahan Pte San Win in Oodena, with additional pipe ceremonies held throughout the day. Both Oodena and The Gathering Space at Niizhoziibean will be maintained as quiet spaces for healing, with Indigenous-led music, dance, and sacred fires. The last ceremony will be held at supper time.

From 10AM to 6PM, visit the Historic Rail Bridge (between Oodena and Niizhoziibean) to take part in tobacco tie workshops.

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Throughout The Forks

Beginning at 1PM, there will be four small pop-up stages located throughout The Forks site with family-friendly, multicultural entertainment including hands-on activities, music, theatre, and dance. These will run until 5PM.

CN Field and Stage

This is the place to meet and eat with each other, with picnic tables in the field and food trucks nearby. Feel free to bring your own picnics! Visitors will be entertained by a Manitoba Music-curated playlist and engage in various games. This area will run until about 7PM.

The Forks National Historic Site

Come watch the Manitoba African Cup of Nations Soccer Tournament which will be played all afternoon. Traditional and contemporary Indigenous games will also be here for everyone to try.

The Forks Market parking lot

Bike Valet Winnipeg will be set up in front of The Forks Market, where there will also be a giant chalk station with bubbles for families to enjoy.

Free Tours

Learn more about The Forks and its history with an Oral History tour led by Elder Barb Nepinak (2PM) and a Target Zero Eco Tour (3PM) with Green Kids! The meet-up point is at Travel Manitoba.

Businesses Open

And, if you want to just come and hang out on the patios or grab some food all the businesses at The Forks are open as usual.

Why this event is replacing Canada Day Celebrations for this year (CBC News) CLICK HERE 

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Upcoming Events