This weekend Manitoba will celebrate Terry Fox day.

The August long weekend was renamed last summer after years of being considered the civic holiday.

Terry Fox Foundation Community Development and Office Administrator, Debbie Dunlop shared what the day is all about.

"Terry Fox day really has nothing to do with the foundation or the family.  This was something that the Manitoba Provincial Government decided they wanted to name the August long weekend since it really was an outdated holiday.  They chose to make it a Terry Fox day in light of the fact that Terry Fox's birthday was close to that particular date."

Dunlop noted last year's response was very positive as lots of people continue to embrace the life of the Canadian hero.

She added although the day is not heavily promoted by the Terry Fox Foundation, there will still be a variety of activities taking place.

"On the day there are various places around the city that are doing things that are specific to Terry Fox," stated Dunlop.  "Individuals, people that are long-time supporters of Terry Fox might do something special on that day.  It is not really anything that is promoted by the foundation however the Manitoba Museum who is currently holding the Terry Fox museum exhibit will be having special events at the museum on August 1st."

Meanwhile, Dunlop explained Terry Fox day is a special holiday to celebrate the cancer research activist's life.  

She said the holiday is different then the annual run day because it doesn't place a focus on the 1980 marathon of hope.