Saint Boniface is synonymous with the very foundations of Western settlement and the creation of Manitoba. In 208 we look to the past to recognize the important role Saint Boniface has played in the history of our city and province.
The cornerstone of Célébrations 2008 is the
100th anniversary of the Incorporation of the City of Saint Boniface. 2008 is also a time to celebrate a number of other important milestones:
- 100th Inauguration of Saint Boniface Cathedral
- 100th Royal Canadian Mint
- 190th foundation of Mission of Saint Boniface
- 190th Saint Boniface College
- 160th Grey Nun’s convent
- 95th La liberté, frenc-language newspaper
And many more!
Let them eat cake!
Saint Boniface is the cultural capital of Manitoba’s Francophone community. Here, you’ll find many great opportunities to brush up on your French, whether it’s taking in a jazz concert at the Centre culturel franco-manitobain or an Art Exhibit at one of Saint Boniface’s many galleries or ordering your favorite meal at one of our fabulous French or Bistro restaurants.
Some say that music runs through the veins of Franco-Manitobans; it seems everyone sings or plays one instrument or another! This makes for a vibrant music scene. Saint Boniface is also home of Canada’s oldest theatre troupe, the Cercle Molière that will soon see the construction of its brand new theatre on Provencher Boulevard.
Be a culture vulture!
Saint Boniface is not just a geographical location; it has a mythical quality to it. Saint Boniface is a symbol of a francophone presence since its foundation as a mission in 1818. Thanks to the passion of generations of Francophone and Métis leaders, Saint Boniface remains a bilingual community, a vital force in Manitoba’s capital.
In 2008, we celebrate this passion with a year’s worth of exciting and vibrant programming. Events that will attract people of all ages and all cultures, who will discover the little “je ne sais quoi” that makes up the mystique of Saint Boniface.
- Kick-off
- Commemoration Day
- Black tie Gala Benefit
- FrancoForce
- Canada Day
Vive la difference!
Célébrations 2008 salutes the vision of those who laid the foundation for the community of Saint Boniface. Be they explorers, voyageurs, members of the clergy or city counselors, the men and women who contributed to the development of Saint Boniface are roles models for all of us who are striving to write the next chapter of the history of Saint Boniface.
As the 21st century unfolds, we forge a new vision for Saint Boniface, a modern bilingual community in the heart of Winnipeg, which will attract families and businesses alike. In 2008 Saint Boniface is the place to be!
The future is now!
