Kick Off & Lighting of the Sacred Fire

Let's kick off the 2018 Manito Ahbee Festival together!

Join us at the Oodena Circle at The Forks National Historic Site for the Lighting of the sacred fire, pipe ceremony, entertainment and a traditional friendship dance to welcome everyone to the Manito Ahbee Festival.

Indigenous Music Conference

The 2018 Indigenous Music Conference is your opportunity to take your music career to the next level. Participate in topic discussions and meet face-to-face with the forward-thinkers who shape the entertainment industries. We will be announcing this year's schedule shortly. Stay tuned!

Youth Education Day

Presented by: Manitoba Hydro

1000 youth will be immersed in a one-day cultural education day at the University of Winnipeg.

Women traditionally played a central role within the Aboriginal family, within Aboriginal government and in spiritual ceremonies; Aboriginal men and women were equal in power. This year, the Education Day Coordinator and the committee want to highlight the importance of Indigenous women and their impact in society by highlighting Indigenous female cultural teachings and Indigenous female role models.

* Pre-registration required

Indigenous Music Awards

Presented by: Casinos of Winnipeg

Celebrate and experience the best of Indigenous music at the Club Regent Event Centre! Submissions are now open until February 14th.

Indigenous Marketplace & Trade Show

Presented by: Fox Lake Cree Nation

Whether you are looking for traditional artwork or contemporary treasures, there's something for everyone! The Indigenous Marketplace and Trade Show is open to people attending the Manito Ahbee's International Pow Wow, which attracts over 5,000 people each day to the RBC Convention Centre. This is an excellent shopping experience with many vendors to choose from.

International Pow Wow

Ignite your spirit and experience Indigenous culture at the 2018 International Pow Wow! Join us and over 800 dancers at the RBC Convention Centre on May 19th & 20th. Everyone is welcome!

Art Expo

The Art Expo recognizes the traditional and historical works of art practiced by Indigenous people. It is a call to action to artists to revive, create and honour traditions and gifts through submissions in beadwork, quillwork, star blankets, and ribbon shirts.

Art Challenge

The Art Challenge is an exciting competition where artists paint live before an audience during the International Pow Wow. There are two rounds of 20 painters. The top 5 from each round move onto to the final round and the chance to win.

Getting Jiggy With It

In honour of the Metis community, their vibrant history and dance style that has been mastered for decades, the Festival will host Getting Jiggy With It – Square Dance Exhibition and Jigging Competition.