Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/514227
18 Gatherings F E E L A L I V E W I T H U S There's always something to celebrate in Manitoba. Sports, music, culture and heritage, a healthy harvest — we'll throw a party or full- blown festival for anything that brings us together for good times. You'll find something here to move you and make you feel alive. Watch the video at travelmanitoba.com/lively-gatherings. Manitoba's Wheat City, Brandon hosts several prestigious livestock and agricultural fairs each year, including the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair in April, the Manitoba Summer Fair June 3-7 and the Manitoba Livestock Show Oct. 29-31. Check out horse shows ranging from equestrian events to displays of massive Percheron workhorses, along with dog shows, a summer midway and a whole range of cattle breed shows. Thompson salutes its mining history during Nickel Days June 18-25. Along with music and a midway, the King Miner skills contest is a main event, drawing competitors from across the country. Mascot Limestone Luke comes out to play during Stonewall Quarry Days in August, with live music, a midway and acres of fun at the Stonewall Quarry Park. > redriverex.com > portageex.com > brandonfairs.com > nickeldays.ca > stonewallquarrydays.ca Rock the BOAT The population of Norway House Cree Nation explodes for one week in August during Treaty and York Boat Days, when the community celebrates its historic role as a hub for fur traders en route to York Factory. Voyageur canoe races, a talent showcase and wall-to-wall activities centre around the World Championship of York Boat Rowing, which draws dozens of competing teams of all ages and genders. > nhcn.ca LIVELY TREATY & YORK BOAT DAYS gatherings Fabulous FAIRS Step right up! Winnipeg's Red River Exhibition is a thrill ride for kids of all ages June 12-21. Nothing says summer like the sounds of the midway and the smell of cotton candy, popcorn and mini doughnuts. Check out the horse, cattle and agriculture exhibitions and rock the nights away at one of the free concert stages. In Portage la Prairie, the Portage Ex, on July 3-5, embraces its agricultural roots with 4-H events, livestock demonstrations and a rodeo. Along with a midway and live music, displays of handicrafts and home-cooking have a place of pride. 18