It’s shaping up to be a busy and exciting weekend at the Mennonite Heritage Village Museum in Steinbach, and Executive Director Robert Goertzen says they’re ready to welcome the crowds.
MHV hosts Manitoba's birthday
“We’re really looking forward to Saturday, May 10th,” said Goertzen. “It’s not technically Manitoba Day, that’s Monday, May 12th, but we like to celebrate on the Saturday closest to it, so more people can come.”
This Saturday’s event will feature free admission and a full day of family-friendly activities. Things kick off with a flag-raising ceremony at 11:00 a.m., followed by free birthday cake for everyone.
“We’ll have the Steinbach and Area Garden Club out, planting pansies for moms,” Goertzen said. “And we’re working with Eastman Immigrant Services to offer an afternoon of fun races, sack races, three-legged races, and lots more out on the green space.”
Hungry visitors won’t be disappointed
“The Livery Barn restaurant will be open, and the short order booth will have snacks like hot dogs and fries,” said Goertzen. “The waffle booth’s not up and running just yet—that comes later in the summer.”
Mother's Day buffet: Amazing!
Then, the very next day, Sunday, May 11th, is Mother’s Day, and Goertzen says it’s one of the biggest days of the season at the museum.
“The Livery Barn opened last week, and on Sundays, we always offer a special buffet,” he said. “But Mother’s Day is one of our biggest. It’s an incredible spread, salads, desserts, meats, perogies, farmer sausage, mashed potatoes, you name it. Families love to make a day of it.”
Even better? No admission fee is required if you’re just coming to eat.
“When people come in through the museum’s reception area, we just ask if they’re planning to visit the museum. If not, and they’re just coming to the restaurant, then there’s no charge,” Goertzen explained. “Of course, we always encourage folks to take a stroll through the village grounds while they’re here.”
Reservations aren’t needed for small groups, but Goertzen has some advice for larger parties:
“If you’re planning to come with a group of 20 or more, definitely give us a call so we can set that up. Otherwise, we try to keep things open for everyone.”
With good food, free activities, and a welcoming community spirit, it looks like the Mennonite Heritage Village is the place to be this weekend, celebrating Manitoba's birthday and Mother's Day.