Winkler Welcomes 75 New Citizens at Canada Day Culture Fest

On July 1st, Winkler, Manitoba will welcome 75 new Canadian citizens in a ceremony that captures what makes Canada special.

The Culture Fest runs from noon to 4:30 PM on the Parkland Triple E Stage, packing an afternoon with performances, food, and connection. Ten country display tents will represent cultures from Nigeria to India to Sudan, where visitors can meet newcomers, explore traditional items, and learn customs from around the world.

Yelena Roschina, settlement lead with Regional Connections, knows firsthand what it means to build a new life in Canada. She immigrated from Kazakhstan in 2022 and has fallen in love with the Pembina Valley community.

"The people are really great," Roschina says. "They are friendly. They can help you even if you don't know them."

The festival features live music and dance performances representing Uganda, Nigeria, India, Ukraine, Métis, and Latin American cultures. Food trucks will serve up international flavors while kids enjoy a petting zoo, bouncy castles, and bubble soccer, all free thanks to the City of Winkler's support.

The Ripple Effect

At 1:30 PM Manitoba time, something remarkable happens. Communities across Canada will participate in six minutes of synchronized drumming, celebrating the nation's diversity through rhythm that spans six time zones.

This marks Winkler's first year joining the Canada Day Drumming tradition. The event will be livestreamed, connecting this small Manitoba town to celebrations from coast to coast in real time.

The citizenship recognition ceremony stands as the festival's heart. Seventy-five people will officially become Canadian citizens, cheered on by neighbors old and new.

Roschina emphasizes what makes events like this matter. "It's important to unite the community, to show the incredible cultural diversity we have and our vibrant community spirit."

Admission is completely free, and everyone is welcome to bring their families and celebrate together.