News Releases

September 25, 2018

Manitobans are encouraged to enjoy the wide variety of free events celebrating the arts and culture for the upcoming Culture Days Manitoba, which runs Sept. 28 to 30, Sport, Culture and Heritage Minister Cathy Cox announced today.

“Manitoba is known across the country and around the world for its wonderful creative community and our ability to host a great event – there’s a reason we’re called ‘Friendly Manitoba’,” Cox said.  “This weekend, there are more than 450 free events planned in communities all across our province.  I’m so proud to say that for the fifth straight year, Winnipeg has the most Culture Days activities of any Canadian city, and Flin Flon and Portage la Prairie also rank in the national top 10 for the number of activities in their respective population categories.”

Culture Days is a collaborative, national celebration that began more than a decade ago to promote the importance of arts and culture.  The three-day event encourages audience participation and raises awareness that in one form or another, culture is everywhere.  One of the annual highlights is Nuit Blanche Winnipeg, a one-night celebration of contemporary art.  This year, Nuit Blanche Winnipeg takes place on Saturday, Sept. 29.

“The three-day event is a unique opportunity to create, participate and share arts and culture while building relationships and celebrating our rich diversity.  Thanks to the support of the Province of Manitoba, we have been able to leverage the largest arts and cultural campaign in the province and connect with the rest of the country on this weekend annually.  We encourage everyone to get out and rediscover their community as they explore the full range of Culture Days Manitoba and Nuit Blanche Winnipeg activities.  There is something for everyone and best of all, it’s free!” said Mélissa Courcelles, project manager, Culture Days Manitoba and Nuit Blanche Winnipeg.

Manitoba provides funding to many community arts groups through a variety of heritage and culture grant programs.  This year, the government is supporting both Culture Days Manitoba and Nuit Blanche Winnipeg with grants totalling $50,000 for the co-ordination of the many free activities.  This provincial support, along with the many dedicated employees and volunteers, helps ensure this celebration of arts and culture remains affordable and accessible for Manitobans, the minister said.

For more information and a complete list of Manitoba events, go to http://mb.culturedays.ca/en.

- 30 -