WINNIPEG — Year-long celebrations to mark Manitoba’s 150th anniversary are about to get underway.

The Manitoba 150 host committee is kicking off the party with “Illuminate 150” on December 14.

The free, family-friendly event will be held at the Manitoba legislature and signals the official 150-day countdown to the province’s birthday next year.

“We’re setting the tone with a kick-off event that will get Manitobans into the spirit of Manitoba 150 with some exciting and unexpected moments,” said Stuart Murray and Monique LaCoste, co-chairs of Manitoba 150.

“With the flip of a switch, the Manitoba Legislative Building will glitter with a memorable lighting display as we begin the 150-day countdown to Manitoba Day.”

More than 300,000 LED lights and Manitoba-inspired installations from Lights of the North will shine brightly until July 2020.

Illuminate 150

When: Saturday, December 14 from 3-7 p.m. The lights will be flicked on at 5:35 p.m.
Where: Manitoba Legislative Building
Who: Manitoba 150 host committee, dignitaries and everyday Manitobans
Why: To kick-off celebrations for Manitoba’s 150th anniversary

Guests who need to warm up can do so by heading into the Manitoba legislature, which will be holding its open house from 3-5 p.m. that day. Those attending the open house are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item donation for the Christmas Cheer Board.

Free on-site activities include snow tube races and a snowshoe obstacle course, free gourmet hot chocolate and coffee, interactive displays from Lights of the North and more.