Legislation proclaiming the third Monday in February as Louis Riel Day was passed by Manitoba’s Legislative Assembly in 2007, and first celebrated on February 18th 2008. 

Louis Riel Day is a name that was suggested by Manitoba school students, in honour of Louis Riel, the political leader of the Métis people of the Canadian Prairies and regarded as the Father of Manitoba. 

He led two rebellions against the government of Canada and was executed after being convicted for high treason in November 1885. 

As the holiday is a provincial holiday, federal employees may not have the day off. The post will be operating and banks and restaurants are allowed to open. Some businesses may stay closed as opening on a holiday means they have to pay employees extra to work on a holiday.