The Manitoba Museum. Just saying the name no doubt conjures up any number of mental images; the Nonsuch, a great bison herd, or the memory of sitting under the dome of the Planetarium, gazing up at a starry sky.
The largest not-for-profit organization for heritage and science education in the province, the Manitoba Museum celebrates our rich history and culture through its exhibits and galleries. As one of Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries’ (MBLL) longest standing partnerships, we have teamed up with the Manitoba Museum to bring free admission to Manitobans since 2001.
Currently, MBLL is a proud supporter of First Fridays at the Manitoba Museum. On the first Friday of every month from 4pm to 9pm, visitors receive free general admission to discover the Museum, as well as take part in special programming and activities.
“We are thrilled to continue our support of First Fridays at the Manitoba Museum, granting free access to their three core attractions – the Museum Galleries, Planetarium, and Science Gallery,” said Kari DeGroot, Manager, Community Support at Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries. “This partnership provides the opportunity for community to experience all the Manitoba Museum has to offer.”
During First Fridays, visitors can immerse themselves in the thousands of stories, exhibits, and experiences waiting inside at the Museum, allowing new generations to make memories that will last a lifetime. For newcomers to the province, First Fridays also provide a welcoming introduction to Manitoba’s rich history and cultural landscape.
“It’s a chance to explore, connect with others, and feel a sense of belonging,” said Cassidy Nicholls, Manager of Partnerships & Events at the Manitoba Museum. “Engaging with local history helps newcomers understand their new home while celebrating the diverse stories that make up our community. The opportunity to participate for free ensures that cost is not a barrier to building those meaningful connections.”
Thanks to the support from MBLL, in its first year, First Fridays welcomed over 45,000 guests, with many more thousands visiting since.
In addition to the featured exhibits and galleries, the Manitoba Museum also provides unique programming opportunities for event attendees such as panel discussions, screenings of documentaries and short films, and marketplace vendors.
The First Friday partnership aims to establish the Manitoba Museum as a vibrant community hub that welcomes more people by meeting their needs through evening hours, free admission, and unique experiences created through community partnerships.
“Collaborating with community partners allows us to expand our reach and offer new, meaningful experiences that resonate with our visitors,” said Cassidy. “Our goal is to create a welcoming space where everyone feels a sense of belonging and connection.”
Through our partnership with the Manitoba Museum, MBLL helps make these spaces more accessible and inviting by creating opportunities for diverse audiences to explore arts, science, culture, and heritage on their own terms.
One memorable moment was when a family who had never visited the Museum before discovered an exhibit that connected to their own cultural heritage. They were excited to share not only their personal stories with museum staff, but the opportunity to express how much it meant to see themselves represented in the collections. Other visitors also joined in the conversation, sharing their parallel experiences.
“Moments like this reinforce our shared humanity and the importance of accessibility and community-driven programming,” said Cassidy.
First Fridays at the Manitoba Museum has made cultural experiences more accessible and inclusive, breaking down barriers for participation. It has strengthened community connections, and provided a space where families, students, and newcomers can engage with the Museum in a relaxed and inviting environment.
“Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries helps support a wide range of initiatives that make an impact to the quality of life in Manitoba,” said Kari. “The spirit of Good Together means enriching our communities and inspiring the people who make our province thrive.”
Photo courtesy of Manitoba Museum | Photographer Ian McCausland
#MBLLGoodTogether demonstrates Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries’ (MBLL) commitment to partnering with Manitoba communities, non-profits, and charitable organizations that help make our province an even better place to live. Our Community Champion series highlights MBLL employees that are making a difference in the lives of Manitobans through their work or volunteer efforts in the spirit of being “good together”.