Louis Riel Day at Fort Langley

Louis Riel Day at Fort Langley celebrates Métis culture with art, music, food and storytelling while honouring the legacy of a remarkable leader.

Louis Riel Day takes place in Canada on November 16th to commemorate the date that the country’s most famous Metis leader was executed around 140 years ago. It’s not a national holiday, but still an important day to remember an important person in Canadian history.

In 2025 Fort Langley National Historic Site celebrates Louis Riel Day on Saturday, November 15th. For details about the event, either continue reading or visit the Parks Canada website.

Louis Riel Day at Fort Langley

Louis Riel Day is a celebration of Métis heritage, culture and community. The event brings people together to honour the life and legacy of Louis Riel, a visionary leader who fought for Métis rights and identity. At the event at Fort Langley visitors can enjoy cultural activities, traditional food, live demonstrations and opportunities to connect with Métis artists and community members. It’s a day of learning, sharing and celebrating the enduring spirit of the Métis people.

Where and When is Louis Riel Day

In 2025 the event takes place on Saturday, November 15th, from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm at Fort Langley National Historic Site. The event welcomes visitors of all ages for a full day of interactive experiences and cultural exploration. General admission rates apply for visitors, but Métis and First Nations Peoples can join for free.

Who and What are Metis?

Metis are a distinct Indigenous group of people in Canada. They are descendants of Indigenous women and European men. They have a unique culture and history.

Beginning in the 1600’s, the fur trade in Canada was a major industry for about 250 years. It defined the country’s early history, long before Canada even became a country. It was also a big part of the history of the colony of British Columbia, and the original main reason for the establishment of Fort Langley.

Much of the early fur trade was dominated by the Hudson’s Bay Company (which founded Fort Langley), but also by the French. Coureur de bois were trappers and traders of French origin. They were famous for trapping fur-bearing animals, and for trading with local Indigenous people, and many took Indigenous women as wives. The resulting Metis population was consequently half European and half Indigenous. They lived all across the country. Many also lived in what later became Manitoba, where Louis Riel became a Metis leader in the mid-1800’s, as well as a thorn in the side of the Canadian government.

Today the Metis are recognized as an official Indigenous group.

What to Expect at the Fort Langley Event

The celebrations at Fort Langley feature a variety of activities that highlight Métis traditions, art and storytelling. In 2025 visitors can meet Métis woodworker Pat Calihou, who shares the stories behind his handcrafted bateau and other works. Also, there is a beading circle led by artist Lisa Shepherd that invites participants to bring their projects and join in a creative atmosphere.

Also at the event in 2025, there are interactive booths hosted by Métis Nation BC, the Amelia Douglas Institute and the Waceya Métis Society. The event offers opportunities to learn about Métis programs and initiatives.

In 2025 visitors can join knowledge keeper Ken Robillard to play traditional Métis games. For folks wanting to try Indigenous cuisine, the Ancestor Café offers a variety of dishes inspired by Métis culture. And if guests want to buy Indigenous gifts or handcrafted art, they can explore Métis artisan booths and the Spirit Bears Design Gift Shop.

About Louis Riel

Louis Riel was a Métis leader who lived from 1844 to 1885. He was a political figure and the founder of Manitoba. He led two Métis governments and played a central role in defending Métis lands and rights during the Red River and North-West resistances. In 1885 he was hanged for treason as a result of his efforts to stand up to the Canadian government.

Today Riel is recognized as a champion of his people and an important figure in Canadian history. His courage and dedication continue to inspire Métis communities across the country today.