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 officially takes place in Canada on November 16th to commemorate the date that the country’s most famous Métis 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 2026 Fort Langley National Historic Site celebrate Louis Riel Day on Saturday, November 14th, so two days before the official date. Continue reading or visit the Parks Canada website for details about this event.

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.

The event is a day of learning, sharing and celebrating the enduring spirit of the Métis people.

Where and When is Louis Riel Day?

This year’s event takes place on Saturday, November 14th, 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 ($10 for those ages 18 and up, or $8.50 for seniors) apply for visitors, but Métis and First Nations Peoples can join for free.

Visit the Fort Langley website for details about events at the historic site.

Fort Langley on Louis Riel Day

Who and What are Métis?

Métis 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 1600s, 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 Métis population was consequently half European and half Indigenous.

The Métis lived all across the country. Many also lived in what later became Manitoba, where Louis Riel became a Métis leader in the mid-1800s, as well as a thorn in the side of the Canadian government.

Today the Métis are recognized as an official Indigenous group.

Visit the Fort Langley website for details about events at the historic site.

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. At the 2026 event visitors can meet Métis Elder Ken Pruden, as well as Indigenous artisans at a vendor market. Also, there is a beading circle led by artist Lisa Shepherd that invites participants to bring their own unfinished projects and work on them in a creative atmosphere.

The event also features interactive booths and presentations 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, as well as the opportunity to sample authentic cuisine.

The Fort on Louis Riel Day

Louis Riel Day Event Schedule

Below is the schedule of activities for Louis Riel Day in 2026.

11:00 am – Fort Game Show
12:00 pm – Servants’ Quarters Presentation: Workers of the Fort
1:00 pm – Amelia Douglas Institute Presentation: Louis Riel, Reflections of a Métis Hero
2:00 pm – Barrel-making Demonstration
3:00 pm – Bake Oven Demonstration

In addition to the above, there are representatives of the Amelia Douglas Institute, as well as Ken Pruden, inside the Big House throughout the day. Inside the Visitor Centre is the gift shop and representatives of the Waceya Métis Association.

Visit the Fort Langley website for details about events at the historic site.

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.