August 21, 2020 – 150 Celebration & Grand Opening

The 150 Celebration is a recognition and celebration of the Métis Nation ratifying the Manitoba Act of 1870 and joining the Dominion of Canada. The Manitoba Act of 1870, passed by the Parliament of Canada, and ratified by the Métis Nation facilitated the Metis Nation joining Canadian Confederation. The Manitoba Act stated that Métis lands would be protected but all other lands were the property of the Dominion of Canada. The Manitoba Act would also protected a 1.4 million acre land reserve that made up about 1/7th of all the land in the original “postage stamp” Manitoba. Métis would control a sizeable portion of the new province’s lands.

The Historic Métis Wagon Trek will start in Batoche Saskatchewan and finish at Metis Crossing in Alberta. The purpose of this Wagon Trek is to celebrate the grand opening of a new world class Cultural Gathering Centre at Metis Crossing. The Wagon Trek will involve a one-month Journey following as close as possible the Carlton Trail, which is the historic route taken by the Metis people from the forks in Manitoba to Fort Edmonton. During the evenings, we will be showcasing Metis culture through interpretive demonstrations and other events, and in the spirit of moving forward as a nation, we hope to build strong and positive relationships within the communities that will host us.

The 150 Celebration will also be marked by a 3-day paddle voyage from Edmonton to Métis Crossing. The paddle will celebrate the voyageur life along the North Saskatchewan River and Métis contributions to Canada’s Fur Trade history. The journey will incorporate Métis crafts such as beading and weaving, paddling authentic voyageur canoes, bannock cooked over the fire, music and jigging.