The Frog Follies Ag fair jumps into action in St. Pierre-Jolys this weekend.
This event began 55 years ago, when Queen Elizabeth toured Manitoba for the Queen's Jubilee Tour, stopping in the community of St. Pierre-Jolys.
Roxanne Gagne, programming director and past festival president, says that St. Pierre-Jolys was chosen because of its authentic Francophone and Metis population.
“Knowing she was coming, we had to have something go on, so the community planned around the Ag fair, and they invented this frog jumping competition. And I think Prince Charles had a chance to jump a frog. So, it's kind of cool how this story goes back.”
Gagne says frog jumping is unique to this festival. The championships will take place on Saturday at 1 pm.
“We're the only place in Canada that does it. There is another one that happens in the United States, but they jump bullfrogs. Here we focus on what's local, which is, of course, the leopard frog. So, frog jumping is all about a friendly competition between people in the community to see how far they can jump a frog.”
This weekend festival annually celebrates with frog jumping, fireworks, and fun. Some more activities include bike decorating, bubble soccer, face painting, and inflatable axe throwing.
The music and dancing on the main stage Friday night highlighted the culture of the community.
“We've got amazing music going on in the background, and that is all about celebrating the francophone Metis community that we are and bringing some terrific music to our people here in our community. So it's just a really wonderful night for everyone to come out and enjoy the music and the weather. "
The four-day festival continues until Sunday at 5 pm, so make sure to spend some time there this weekend.
If you miss this weekend, keep in mind the annual event happens every year in the second week of August.
Keep your eyes open for our Dairy Queen Celebrate Summer Jeep at these events and more, throughout the year. You can scan the QR code on the side of our jeep for a chance to win some amazing weekly prizes.
Remember, wherever there's the Dairy Queen Celebrate Summer Jeep, there's Dairy Queen Coupons being handed out as well! So, follow us through the southeast all summer long!