When is Louis Riel Day?
Louis Riel Day is a provincial statutory holiday observed on the third Monday in February in Manitoba.
History of Louis Riel Day
Legislation proclaiming the third Monday in February as Louis Riel Day was passed by Manitoba's Legislative Assembly in 2007, and first celebrated on February 18th 2008.
Louis Riel Day is a name that was suggested by Manitoba school students, in honour of Louis Riel, the political leader of the Métis people of the Canadian Prairies and regarded as the Father of Manitoba.
Riel was declared founder of Manitoba in 1992 and officially recognized as the first leader of Manitoba in 2016. In 2024, Riel was also recognized as the province's first honorary premier.
Riel was hanged for high treason at age 41 in November 1885 after leading two Métis resistances, and has sometimes been a controversial figure in Canadian history, but is now widely celebrated for his leadership.
As the holiday is a provincial holiday, federal employees may not have the day off. The post will be operating and banks and restaurants are allowed to open. Some businesses may stay closed as opening on a holiday means they have to pay employees extra to work on a holiday.
Recycling and garbage will be collected as normal for those with Monday as their collection day. All Public Library branches and leisure centres will be closed. Public transport will operate on a Sunday schedule.
Family Day in Canada
Manitoba isn't the only province to observe a regional public holiday in Canada. Family Day is a modern holiday that is growing in popularity across Canada. Its timing is said to have been selected to coincide with the American holiday of Presidents Day.
The day may have different names in the Provinces in which it is observed:
| Province | Name | 2020 date | 2021 date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alberta | Family Day | February 17th | February 15th |
| British Columbia | Family Day | February 17th | February 15th |
| Manitoba | Louis Riel Day | February 17th | February 15th |
| Nova Scotia | Nova Scotia Heritage Day | February 17th | February 15th |
| Ontario | Family Day | February 17th | February 15th |
| Prince Edward Island | Islander Day | February 17th | February 15th |
| Saskatchewan | Family Day | February 17th | February 15th |
