One day before the Ottawa Red Blacks and Edmonton Eskimos take to the field in the 103rd Grey Cup, their respective dance teams took part in the CFL Cheer Extravaganza.
They were joined by squads from every team in the league.
"I've actually been on the team for four years, continuously in the Grey Cup,” said Alexandria Macfarlane with the BC Lions Felions Dance Team. “It's been quite an experience. I feel like Manitoba and Winnipeg is actually the friendliest place we've ever been."
Up in the stands fans from across the country proudly sported their teams colours.
John Cliford has never been to the Grey Cup Festival before, but came prepared as he strutted around in a bright yellow and black zoot suit in the colours of his hometown Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
"It's pretty amazing. People come up to us, announcers, athletes come up,” said Cliford. “Women come up. I'm not used to that, but it's been pretty nice."
Despite the team’s dismal season, Winnipeg Blue Bombers fans have not been shy about representing the home team as the city prepares to host the championship game.
"The Grey Cup is all about supporting your team. You look around the room and everyone's wearing their colours. Look at Calgary guy over here,” said Don Cruickshank. “We're all sitting here having a good time. It doesn't matter what colours you're wearing, at Grey Cup it's one big family."
