Portage la Prairie residents are in for a treat this August long weekend, as a vibrant array of activities awaits both locally and within a reasonable drive.
From cultural celebrations and traditional gatherings to opportunities for community giving and educational exploration, there's something for everyone to enjoy from Friday, August 1, through Monday, August 4.
#1: Dauphin's Ukrainian celebration
Get ready to immerse yourself in rich cultural experiences or lend a helping hand in the community. Just south of Dauphin, about a 2-hour and 20-minute drive, Canada’s National Ukrainian Festival kicks off on Friday, August 1, and runs until Sunday, August 3, at the SELO grounds. This lively event promises nonstop folk-dance stages, artisan markets, pysanky workshops, and, of course, delicious perogy and borscht tastings, all culminating in evening concerts on the main stage.
#2: Celebrate indigenous culture at Long Plain
Closer to home, the Long Plain First Nation Annual Pow-wow invites everyone to experience a powerful celebration of Indigenous culture. Held on Long Plain territory, just southwest of Portage, the Pow-wow runs from Friday evening, August 1, through Sunday night, August 3. Attendees can witness grand-entry dancers, drum-group "show-downs," and exciting ribbon-skirt and fancy-dance contests. Be sure to try some bannock and frybread around the fire for an authentic taste of the gathering.
#3: Help out at the community garden
For those looking to give back, the Rotary Republic of Manitobah Community Garden offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and fellow Portagers. On both Saturday, August 2, and Sunday, August 3, at 9:30 AM, you can drop in to help plant, weed, or harvest at the community garden plots in Rotary Republic of Manitobah Park. No signup is needed, making it a perfect, flexible activity for families or anyone keen to contribute locally. While the bounties of each plot belong to the people that have signed up to take on the task, there have been volunteer days planned throughout the summer asking people to provide extra assistance. Please do not take any of the product in the gardens without prior permission from those that have taken on that space for the summer.
#4:Unleash your inner viking in Gimli
Head east to Gimli for the Icelandic Festival of Manitoba, running all four days of the long weekend, August 1–4, on Gimli’s picturesque waterfront. This festival is packed with activities, including beach volleyball tournaments, diverse craft and artisan markets, and the thrilling Viking Village “Íslendinga-Derby.” Enjoy live music at Vingólf Gardens, engage the little ones with children’s storytelling, all capped off with spectacular fireworks over Lake Winnipeg.
#5: Uncover the secrets of aquaculture in Austin
Finally, dive into something new with the "Aquaculture: Farming the Waters" Exhibition at the Manitoba Agricultural Museum in Austin, approximately 50 kilometres west of Portage. Opening Friday, August 1, at 10 AM, this exhibition runs all summer. It features interactive displays on various fish-farming techniques, live tanks showcasing lake-raised species, and a fascinating look at the heritage equipment used in Manitoba’s inland aquaculture history. It’s a unique chance to learn about an often-overlooked aspect of local agriculture.
Whether you're exploring nearby cultural festivals, helping out in the community, or discovering new exhibits, this August long weekend offers plenty of ways for Portagers to make lasting memories.