1. Saint-Boniface Museum
Saint-Boniface Museum: The cornerstone of our cultural heritage !
Recognized as a keeper of Francophone and Métis heritage, it is an unavoidable reference point for researchers, a key experience for teachers and students, a must-see for tourists, a touchstone for our communities’ families and a wonderful part of Winnipeg’s cultural landscape.
2. Saint-Boniface Cathedral
One of the neighbourhood’s most striking landmarks, the Saint-Boniface Cathedral attracts thousands of visitors each year, and for good reason!
Discover the unique architecture of the present-day Cathedral, built inside the ruins of the oldest basilica in Western Canada. Stroll through the Cathedral’s cemetery and stop at the tomb of Louis Riel, the celebrated Métis leader and “founding father” of Manitoba.
3. Gabrielle-Roy House
Visit the house that inspired the works penned by one of Manitoba’s most famous francophone writers, Gabrielle Roy.
Maison Gabrielle-Roy House, located at 375 Deschambault Street, was the birthplace of the world-renowned French-Canadian author and her home for 28 years. The house features prominently in several of her works, including the biographical novel Rue Deschambault (translated into English as Street of Riches). The residence has been restored to its original state and is now a museum where visitors can explore the early life of Gabrielle Roy. While there, make sure to check out the attic!
4. Festival du Voyageur
Take a step back in time and experience the life of Voyageurs during the fur trade era!
Festival du Voyageur, Western Canada’s largest winter festival, celebrates the vibrant history and culture of the voyageurs, early French-Canadian fur traders who journeyed through Canada’s wilderness. This unique ten-day festival celebrates the joie de vivre of Voyageurs from the fur trade era. Visitors immerse themselves in traditional music, cuisine, and activities like snowshoeing and ice sculpting, and jigging and fiddling contests.
5. Jeudis Franco Thursdays
Making Saint-Boniface the must-see destination for cultural activities every Thursday during the summer!
The Jeudis Franco Thursdays ultimately aim to develop summer programming led by organizations and businesses in Saint-Boniface, in conjunction with Provencher Biz and Norwood Biz. The Saint-Boniface Summer Market, Movies under the stars, and Pétanque Thursdays are amongst the key events every week!
6. Maison des Artistes visuels francophones
New art regularly!
Located in the old City Hall building, this art gallery displays the works of Francophone visual artists. The gallery shows the drawings, paintings, sculptures, photography and engravings of renowned and emerging artists. It is also home to the Sculpture Garden, a peaceful site containing several beautiful sculptures from francophone artists.
7. Théâtre Cercle Molière
Seeking to bring Manitobans together through French theatre and culture
As Canada’s oldest theatre company, the TCM is proud to showcase the talents of numerous Franco-Manitoban playwrights and actors.
8. CCFM – Centre Culturel Franco-Manitobain
It’s time for culture, creativity and discovery!
The CCFM features an art gallery, a restaurant, concert halls, and is home to the Patio 340. It is a frequent host to live entertainment covering all styles from classical, to pop and jazz. There’s always something happening at the CCFM!
9. Royal Canadian Mint
An interactive museum that describes the fascinating coin production process
Plan a visit that will help you appreciate the technology and innovation of the Royal Canadian Mint and its coin production process. The Winnipeg factory produces all of the circulation coins used in Canada, and has stamped over 55 billion coins for over 60 countries all over the world. The boutique offers unique collectible coins, clothing and a wide selection of souvenirs.
10. At the Heart of Manitoba’s Francophone Community
A short documentary film which depicts the rich, compelling story of Manitoba’s Francophone and Métis community.
Manitoba’s French heritage is deep-rooted and has greatly influenced the development of our province and our country. This film explores the trials, tribulations, determination, achievements, and the joie de vivre of a community once expected to fade into the history books, but has nonetheless persevered and is thriving today. The 40-minute film is shown daily at Tourisme Riel’s visitor information centre located at 219 Provencher Boulevard.
Call 204-233-8343 for viewing times or questions.
