Paddle Through Time: Winnipeg's Annual Rendez-Vous Rivyayr Seine Event
Paddle event on the Seine River honors Métis heritage and tradition
Hop aboard a kayak or canoe and join the vibrant crowd of Winnipeggers celebrating Métis heritage! The second annual Rendez-Vous Rivyayr Seine event took place along the Seine River, offering paddlers a chance to delve into the rich Métis and Winnipeg history.
This community paddle event, hosted by the Métis Historical Society, is a thrilling blend of cultural celebration, physical activity, and educational exploration. On June 7, 2025, participants could select from five launch sites and embark on water routes ranging from a leisurely four kilometers to a more challenging 17 kilometers [1][3].
As paddlers navigated the stunning Seine River, they encountered historical Métis figures and stories brought to life by local actors on the riverbanks. Robert Loiselle, MLA for Saint Boniface, expressed the event's significance, stating, "It's our way to reconnect with nature, our heritage, the history of the river, and just enjoying being in such a beautiful river environment" [1].
The adventure concluded at Lagimodière-Gaboury Park, where a riverside celebration awaited. Festivities included live music by Andrina Turenne, a taste of traditional Métis cuisine, and prizes for participants [1].
The Rendez-Vous Rivyayr Seine event carries immense weight in the community and politics of Winnipeg, with local MLAs like Robert Loiselle and Jamie Moses participating [3]. This platform serves as a powerful tool to celebrate Métis culture, foster a sense of community and cultural awareness, and preserve historical knowledge in the region [2].
Embrace the spirit of camaraderie, adventure, and learning by joining the Rendez-Vous Rivyayr Seine event next year! Don't miss your chance to dive into the rich history that flows beneath the waters of Winnipeg's stunning Seine River.
Footnotes:
[1] CBC News
[2] Metis Federation of Manitoba
[3] Government of Manitoba
Engaging in fitness-and-exercise and outdoor-living, the Rendez-Vous Rivyayr Seine event invites participants to paddle along the Seine River, connecting with the natural environment and embracing Winnipeg's rich Métis history. As a significant lifestyle event, it promotes health-and-wellness, cultural awareness, and educational exploration, all while fostering a sense of community and camaraderie. By participating in this event, individuals can partake in home-and-garden activities such as appreciating live music and savoring traditional Métis cuisine.