Saint Boniface City is a historic, French-speaking city in Manitoba, Canada. The city was the birthplace of Louis Riel and was a key site in the resistance to controversial legislation, including the removal of French as the official language and changes to the Manitoba school system. Its early economy was based on agriculture, with a growing meat packing and processing industry. The city also developed numerous light industries, including a weekly newspaper, a community center, and a performing arts group.
Known as the French Quarter of Winnipeg, Saint Boniface is one of the oldest and most historically rich communities in the province. It was the birthplace of the infamous Louis Riel, who became the first Premier of Manitoba and one of the founders of Confederation. Today, the city is home to the largest winter festival in western Canada. It is located just across the river from the downtown core, making it close enough to the hustle and bustle of the city while far enough away from the noise and hassles to be a quiet retreat.