Manitoba Calendar 2025: List of Holidays, Festivals, Special Days, and Celebrations

Quebec 2025 Calendar: List of Public Holidays, Observances, Special Days, and Big Events

Ontario 2025 Calendar: Public Holidays, Observances, Special Days, and Big Events

Overview: Holidays in Manitoba, Canada 2025

Manitoba, nestled in the heart of Canada, is a province where rich history, cultural diversity, and stunning natural beauty come together to create a memorable calendar of holidays and events. Renowned for its friendly communities and sweeping prairies, Manitoba offers a vibrant mix of national holidays, unique provincial observances, and world-class festivals that bring people together year-round.

In 2025, Manitoba’s celebrations range from the reflective spirit of Remembrance Day to the lively energy of the Winnipeg Folk Festival. Signature holidays like Louis Riel Day and Canada Day honor the province’s deep historical roots and multicultural identity. Manitoba also embraces the seasons with winter carnivals, Indigenous cultural gatherings, and nature-focused events that reflect its strong bond with the land.

Whether you call Manitoba home or are planning a visit, this guide offers an in-depth look at the province’s 2025 public holidays, cultural observances, and standout events — all waiting to be explored.

The vibrant map of Manitoba highlighting its major public holidays and festivals for 2025

1. Full List of Public Holidays (Statutory Holidays) in Manitoba 2025

New Year’s Day

• Date: January 1, 2025 (Wednesday)
• Type: Public Holiday
• History: Celebrated worldwide as the start of the new calendar year.
• Significance: A time for fresh beginnings and celebrations.
• Activities: Festive meals, fireworks, and outdoor winter activities. Many Manitobans gather with family and friends to ring in the New Year.

Louis Riel Day

• Date: February 17, 2025 (Monday)
• Type: Provincial Holiday
• History: Established in 2008, this holiday honors Louis Riel, the founder of Manitoba and a Métis leader.
• Significance: Celebrates Manitoba’s cultural and historical roots, particularly its Métis heritage.
• Activities: Community events, educational programs, and celebrations of Métis culture, including music, dance, and storytelling.

Good Friday

• Date: April 18, 2025 (Friday)
• Type: Public Holiday
• History: Commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, observed by Christians worldwide.
• Significance: A solemn day for reflection in the Christian faith.
• Activities: Church services, quiet contemplation, and family gatherings.

Victoria Day

• Date: May 19, 2025 (Monday)
• Type: Public Holiday
• History: Celebrates the birthday of Queen Victoria, marking the unofficial start of summer in Canada.
• Significance: A tribute to Canada’s historical ties with the British monarchy.
• Activities: Picnics, outdoor barbecues, and fireworks displays in urban areas like Winnipeg.

Canada Day

• Date: July 1, 2025 (Tuesday)
• Type: Public Holiday
• History: Marks the anniversary of Canada’s Confederation in 1867.
• Significance: A day of national pride and celebration.
• Activities: Parades, concerts, and fireworks, with major events at Winnipeg’s The Forks and Assiniboine Park.

Labour Day

• Date: September 1, 2025 (Monday)
• Type: Public Holiday
• History: Honors workers’ rights and contributions.
• Significance: Marks the transition from summer to fall and celebrates the labor movement.
• Activities: Community events, family outings, and the last summer gatherings before school resumes.

Thanksgiving

• Date: October 13, 2025 (Monday)
• Type: Public Holiday
• History: Originates from celebrations of the harvest season.
• Significance: A time to express gratitude and gather with loved ones.
• Activities: Thanksgiving meals featuring turkey and pumpkin pie, as well as outdoor walks to enjoy Manitoba’s beautiful autumn foliage.

Thanksgiving In The US and Canada: Meaning & Differences

Christmas Day

• Date: December 25, 2025 (Thursday)
• Type: Public Holiday
• History: Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, observed globally.
• Significance: A time for joy, giving, and community.
• Activities: Decorating Christmas trees, exchanging gifts, and attending festive events across Manitoba.

The Unique Holidays and Festivals in Manitoba Manitoba’s cultural richness and historical depth make it home to several unique holidays and festivals that set it apart from other provinces in Canada. These events celebrate the province’s Métis heritage, French-Canadian traditions, and connection to the natural environment. One of Manitoba’s most distinctive holidays is Louis Riel Day, observed on the third Monday of February. This day honors Louis Riel, the founder of Manitoba and a champion of Métis rights. It’s a time for Manitobans to reflect on their history and celebrate Métis culture through traditional music, dance, storytelling, and educational programs. The holiday is a powerful reminder of the province’s unique identity within Canada. Manitoba’s festivals also highlight its vibrant community spirit. The Festival du Voyageur, held every February in Winnipeg, is a spectacular celebration of French-Canadian culture. Visitors can enjoy ice sculptures, traditional cuisine like pea soup and maple taffy, and live performances featuring folk music. The festival’s costumed re-enactments and sleigh rides bring Manitoba’s history to life, making it a beloved winter event. The Winnipeg Folk Festival, held in July at Birds Hill Provincial Park, is another uniquely Manitoban experience. This world-renowned event draws music lovers from across Canada and beyond to celebrate folk music. With performances by international and local artists, artisan markets, and food vendors, the festival captures the province’s creativity and communal warmth. These unique holidays and festivals demonstrate Manitoba’s pride in its heritage and its ability to celebrate diversity, history, and creativity in unforgettable ways. Whether through music, culture, or historical reflection, Manitoba’s events are a testament to its distinctive character.

2. Observances and Special Days

Remembrance Day

• Date: November 11, 2025 (Tuesday)
• Significance: Pays tribute to the sacrifices of Canada’s military personnel.
• Activities: Ceremonies held at cenotaphs and war memorials, including the Winnipeg Cenotaph. Manitobans observe a moment of silence at 11:00 a.m.

National Indigenous Peoples Day

• Date: June 21, 2025 (Saturday)
• Significance: Celebrates the heritage, culture, and contributions of Indigenous Peoples in Canada.
• Activities: Powwows, traditional performances, and educational events held in communities across Manitoba.

3. Big Events and Festivals in Manitoba 2025

Winnipeg Folk Festival

• Date: July 10 - July 13, 2025
• Location: Birds Hill Provincial Park
• Significance: One of Canada’s largest and most popular music festivals.
• Activities: Live performances by international and local artists, artisan markets, and food vendors.

Festival du Voyageur

• Date: February 16 - February 25, 2025
• Location: Winnipeg
• Significance: Celebrates Manitoba’s French-Canadian and Métis heritage.
• Activities: Ice sculptures, traditional music, maple taffy, and costumed re-enactments.

Manitoba Stampede and Exhibition

• Date: July 18 - July 21, 2025
• Location: Morris, Manitoba
• Significance: A celebration of Manitoba’s rural and agricultural roots.
• Activities: Rodeos, livestock shows, carnival rides, and family-friendly activities.

Nuit Blanche Winnipeg

• Date: September 28, 2025
• Location: Downtown Winnipeg
• Significance: A nighttime celebration of art and culture.
• Activities: Public art installations, live performances, and gallery exhibits.

Conclusion

Manitoba’s 2025 calendar is a testament to the province’s rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant community spirit. From public holidays like Louis Riel Day to globally recognized events like the Winnipeg Folk Festival, Manitoba offers a year full of unique experiences. Whether you’re attending a festival, reflecting on history during Remembrance Day, or celebrating Thanksgiving with family, Manitoba’s holidays and events create opportunities to connect, learn, and celebrate together.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Louis Riel Day, and why is it unique to Manitoba?

• Louis Riel Day honors the Métis leader and founder of Manitoba, celebrating the province’s cultural and historical roots. It is a statutory holiday unique to Manitoba.

2. What are the most popular festivals in Manitoba?

• The Winnipeg Folk Festival and Festival du Voyageur are among Manitoba’s most popular events, drawing visitors from across Canada and beyond.

3. Are businesses closed on statutory holidays in Manitoba?

• Most businesses close on statutory holidays like New Year’s Day and Christmas. Some remain open on holidays like Thanksgiving, depending on local practices.

4. What is the best time to visit Manitoba for festivals?

• Summer is ideal for events like the Winnipeg Folk Festival and Manitoba Stampede, while winter offers unique experiences like the Festival du Voyageur.

5. Does Manitoba celebrate all federal statutory holidays?

• Yes, Manitoba observes federal statutory holidays like Canada Day and Labour Day, in addition to its provincial holiday, Louis Riel Day.

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