The Mennonite Heritage Village (MHV) in Steinbach is gearing up for one of its biggest evenings of the year.
On Friday, June 27, the museum will host its annual Gala, and this year promises to be a meaningful and memorable night filled with community, heritage, music, and even a little friendly bidding.
“This year we’ve planned a really great Gala,” said Robert Goertzen, Executive Director of MHV. “It’s going to be an elegant evening. There’s going to be a wonderful dinner and a wide variety of parts to the program that are going to be interesting to many people.”
The Honourable Jake Epp, inside the MHV Gerhard Enns Gallery, standing next to a suit he wore while he was an MP in Ottawa. (2017)One of the highlights of the evening will be a talk from Jake Epp, the former Member of Parliament who once served the Steinbach area and is the namesake behind the city’s public library.
“He was a history teacher here in Steinbach before moving into politics,” Goertzen shared. “He went on to serve in government and then into private enterprise. He’s been very active in Canadian society, and we’re honoured he’s made himself available to speak to us.”
Goertzen adds that Epp will reflect on his time in Steinbach and share his thoughts on the role of heritage and culture in today’s world.
A Night of Stories, Songs, and Art
The theme for the evening is “Remembering the Past and Embracing the Future“, a message close to the heart of MHV’s mission.
“We know that museums keep old things, they tell stories of past generations, but that doesn’t mean that’s all we do,” Goertzen explained. “We’re also engaging our community and working toward the future.”
Guests will enjoy dinner starting at 6:00 pm with musical entertainment by The Janzen Boys, a local folk/blues/country trio known for their heartfelt and engaging performances.
Local photographer, Dennis Fast stands beside a photograph taken by his father, Heinrich D Fast. (2024)And if music and memories weren’t enough, there’s also an art auction happening during the evening. Up for bid are 17 large-scale photographic prints originally part of a past MHV exhibit.
“The prints were donated by the families of the photographers,” Goertzen said. “Some of the prints are big enough to take up a whole wall, and others are more modest. It’ll be a fun way to spend 20–30 minutes, and who knows, maybe you’ll be taking home a piece of history.”
Photographs in the auction were ones exhibited in the Gerhard Enns Gallery in 2024.
“Mennonite Village photography – Views from Manitoba 1890-1940” featured images by Johann E. Funk (1878–1968) and Heinrich D. Fast (1894–1978), both respected for their artistry and connection to early Mennonite life in Manitoba.
How to Join the Gala
Tickets are $100, with a portion eligible for a tax receipt and are available in person at MHV reception, by phone at (204) 326-9661, or online through the museum’s website.
“We want people to come, be inspired, and also support the museum,” Goertzen added. “Whether it’s through buying a ticket, participating in the auction, or just learning more about our future plans, there’s something here for everyone.”
Doors open at 5:30 PM, and guests are encouraged to dress for a special evening of heritage, music, and community spirit.
For more details or to reserve your spot, visit the Mennonite Heritage Village website or call (204) 326-9661.
