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A weekend of vibrant cultural celebrations is set to take place in Portage la Prairie, highlighting the contributions and traditions of the city’s Nigerian and Filipino communities.

On Saturday, June 14, the Association of Nigerians of Portage la Prairie will host Nigerian Cultural Day at the William Glesby Centre from 2 to 5 p.m. The free event will feature traditional performances, music, dance, and a variety of authentic Nigerian dishes.

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“I highly recommend coming — even just for the jollof rice,” said Mitch Tilk, Local Immigration Partnership Program Coordinator with the Portage Community Revitalization Corporation (PCRC). “It’s such a unique and delicious dish. Ever since I had it the first time, I’ve been craving it.”

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The following day, on Sunday, June 15, the Association of Filipinos in Portage la Prairie will mark Filipino Heritage Month with a celebration that begins at 3 p.m. with a vehicle parade leaving from the old mall parking lot. The festivities will continue at the Herman Prior Centre at 3:30 p.m., where guests can enjoy food, entertainment, raffles, and door prizes. Admission is $10 per person, with children five and under free.

“These events are not just about food and entertainment,” Tilk said. “They’re about community building and cultural expression — helping people share who they are and how they want to contribute to life in Portage.”

As part of PCRC’s work with the Local Immigration Partnership, Tilk supports local ethnocultural associations in developing their capacity and public presence. He said both organizations have played vital roles in the community, from cultural celebrations to supporting evacuees and organizing cleanups.

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“These associations create a collective voice,” he said. “They help connect newcomers, distribute information, and offer support when needed. They also give all of us a chance to appreciate the richness and variety that immigration brings.”

Tilk emphasized that multiculturalism isn’t new to Portage — it’s embedded in the region’s history.

“We’re living in a place that has always been a crossroads,” he said. “A former Dakota chief once told me that people were historically told, ‘If you don’t know where to go, go north — there will be people who can help you.’ That welcoming spirit is still alive today, and events like these are a reminder of that legacy.”

For more information about PCRC’s Local Immigration Partnership Program or upcoming cultural events, visit www.portagecrc.com.

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What is Jollof Rice?

A staple in many West African countries, jollof rice is a beloved dish made with long-grain rice simmered in a rich tomato sauce, often spiced with garlic, onions, peppers, and regional seasonings. Each country — including Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal — boasts its own version, with friendly rivalries over whose is best. In Nigeria, it’s often served with fried plantains, grilled chicken, or beef.

Filipino Heritage Month

June is recognized as Filipino Heritage Month in Canada, a time to celebrate the culture, history, and contributions of Filipino communities across the country. According to the 2021 census, Tagalog is one of the fastest-growing languages in Canada, reflecting an increase in Filipino newcomers, including many in Manitoba.

Events like the one in Portage la Prairie showcase traditional music, dance, and food, providing a window into a culture known for its resilience, hospitality, and joyful spirit.

— Renée Lilley is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter who works out of the Portage Graphic. The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.

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