Back to Batoche Days draws more than 40,000 visitors

During McCallum’s opening remarks, he highlighted the large, diverse crowd, noting many had come from across Canada to celebrate the distinct Métis identity through tradition. He said, “We cannot survive without respect, communication and understanding.”

Hundreds gathered Friday morning for the Grand Entry and official opening ceremonies of Back to Batoche Days 2025. With greetings from MN–S President Glen McCallum, Lieutenant Governor McIntyre, Premier Moe and Local #51 President Victor Guillet, attendees stood together as a peaceful and united Métis Nation.

Mr. and Mrs. Batoche 2025 were introduced as Leonard and Leone Neville, who were honoured with Saskatchewan sashes and wrapped in beautifully handmade quilts. The life of Sophie McDougall was also recognized, with a gift presented to her son Lloyd in tribute to her lasting legacy.

Métis Nation–Saskatchewan shared on social media: “Following a beautiful tribute to the fallen, who were the first to stand up for our Métis rights, people made their way back to the festival grounds for one last go at Back to Batoche Days 2025.”

Unfortunately, due to poor weather on Sunday, the Canadian Professional Chuckwagon Association (CPCA) races and Indian Relay Races were cancelled.

The Back to Batoche Festival, held annually at the historic Batoche National Historic Site, commemorates the 1885 Northwest Resistance and has grown into one of the largest Métis cultural gatherings in Canada.