All Nations Tribal Days begins tonight with events at Stride Place, the BDO Centre in Portage and Keeshkeemaquah Conference Centre adjacent to Portage la Prairie as well as Long Plain Rez Plex. It's all put on by Sandy Bay Ojibway First Nation and Long Plain First Nation. 

"For the Central Plains region it's our fifth year hosting the All Nations Tribal Days," says Long Plain First Nation Chief Dennis Meeches. "Portage is a fairly large city but we have a lot of teams that are probably staying in Winnipeg. There are over 34 minor hockey teams. There are so many different events happening this coming weekend that thousands of people will be attending."

Meeches says a lot of people are volunteering for the many events and notes Portage is a great place due to its central location in southern Manitoba.

He outlines some of the things going on: "There's a curling bonspiel, Texas Holdem, a talent show, monster bingo, Black Ops tournament, volleyball tournament, star blanket competition -- quite a few events."

"I think it's a great event for the City of Portage," continues Meeches. "And we'd sure like to see the citizens of Portage come out to participate in the events. It would be great to have you take a look on our Facebook page. If there are any events you may want to participate in, you're more than welcome to. Just contact the organizers and get in touch with our coordinators."

The events are located at the Stride (PCU) Centre, Portage Centennial Arena (BDO Arena) in Portage la Prairie, Keeshkeemaquah Conference Centre in Long Plain First Nation (adjacent to Portage la Prairie) and Long Plain Rez Plex.