February 15, 2006

THE PAS—Culture, Heritage and Tourism Minister Eric Robinson today encouraged Manitobans to celebrate winter and attend the Northern Manitoba Trappers’ Festival in The Pas.

"It’s a great opportunity to get outside and experience the healthy fun that winter festivals offer," said Robinson.

The minister announced the province has provided $20,000 in support for the Trapper’s Festival this year through the Community Festivals Support Program.

"These kinds of events are important to celebrate and share with people who may not be familiar with these historic traditions," said Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Minister Oscar Lathlin. "By doing so we help ensure they are never lost or forgotten."

The Trappers Festival features competitions in the traditional ways of life for trappers from the north like snowshoeing, sled-dog racing, canoe packing, bannock making and axe throwing.

The Community Festivals Support Program provides support to community festivals which are signature annual events in their communities. The program has been well received since it was introduced in 2003.

The winter festivals currently supported include the Trappers Festival, Canadian Power Toboggan Championships in Beausejour, Beaver Days in Falcon Lake, Cormorant Métis Days, Brochet Caribou Festival, Wabowden Winter Festival, Lockport Children’s Winter Festival, Festival Manipogo in St. Laurent, Grand Marais Winter Family Festival, the Lieutenant Governors’ Winter Festival in Brandon and the Thunder and Ice Winter Festival in Shoal Lake.

"We are pleased to support these community festivals that promote outdoor fun and help us reflect on the history and culture of the area’s people," said Robinson.

Applications for 2006 northern and rural Manitoba summer festivals are being accepted under the Community Festivals Support Program until April 1. Further information is available at the Recreation and Regional Services Branch at 204-945-3766.

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