Manitoba officially became a province of Canada in 1870, as it became independent from the Northwest Territories. It is the easternmost of the Prairie Provinces, and has a population of just under 1.2 million people. Manitoba was given its name by founder and Canadian politician Louis Riel. The name is derived from the native word 'manitou', which means spirit. Its eastern sea port is the shortest passageway from Canada to Asia. The capital of Manitoba is Winnipeg, which is also its largest city at 633,451 people.
The climate
Manitoba has a very interesting climate, and is somewhat unique from other Canadian provinces. Its location is prime for extreme weather, and Manitoba has been known to get tornadoes, some even a class F5! While the lakes freeze over in winter, the temperature in the summer can reach upwards of 37 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit). Manitoba experiences very humid conditions, which can cause some of the muggiest summers in Canada. However, these humid conditions make Manitoba a great place to harvest.
Festivals
Manitoba is known for hosting several food, music and art festivals throughout the year. Every year, at the end of August, Morden plays host to the Apple and Corn Festival. This is a long-standing tradition in which the town of Morden closes its downtown from vehicles, and guests are treated to free apple cider and corn. Manitoba also hosts several film festivals including the Gimli Film Festival and the NSI Film Exchange Canadian Film Festival. Winnipeg hosts the Friendship Festival every year, which is held in Assiniboine Park. For years the festival was known as the Winnie The Pooh Festival, named after Winnipeg the bear, who inspired the character and the book.
Another longstanding festival that takes place in Manitoba is the Festival du Voyageur, which translates to the Festival of the Traveller. This 10-day festival, held in the French Quarter of St. Bonafice, celebrates Manitoba's rich fur trading history. The festival started in 1967 as a way to celebrate Canada's centennial. Each year tens of thousands of people from all over Canada and America come together and enjoy music, art, exhibits and trade.
Manitoba, with its rich history, is a great destination for any tourist or migrant. Its lush landscape is perfect for the avid hiker, while its warm summers are a haven for many northern Canadians. Those that call Manitoba home enjoy a rich culture filled with art, music, and historic festivals.