Hey Winnipeggers,

The holidays are just around the corner, and today’s edition is all about getting you ready for the season. From the holiday “gift” the federal government is giving us (hello, GST break!) to all the Christmas markets popping up across the city, there’s no shortage of festive cheer to dive into.

Let’s dive in:

• 2-Month Federal Tax Break & $250 Bonus!

• Manitoba’s Next Year Plan!

• City vs. Province Hockey Rivalry

• 40+ Weekend Events & Live Music

— Jas Singh

News

2-Month Federal Tax Break & $250 Bonus!

We don’t usually dive into federal news… but this one’s too good to ignore.

With prices climbing and the holidays around the corner, the Canadian government is stepping in with a two-month GST break starting December 14, all the way to February 15, 2025. And that’s not all—if you earned $150,000 or less in 2023, there’s a $250 cheque headed your way in early spring.

What’s GST-Free?

Think of it as a little holiday bonus for your wallet:

• Quick bites: Pre-made meals, salads, sandwiches, chips, and candy.

• Dining out: Dine-in, takeout, or delivery—it all counts.

• Drinks: Beer, wine, cider, and other light beverages.

• For the kiddos: Clothes, diapers, car seats, and toys.

• Holiday vibes: Christmas trees, books, board games, and puzzles.

For many Winnipeg families, this could mean saving $100 or more during one of the priciest times of the year. So whether you're stocking up on kids' essentials or treating yourself to a night out, this break is here when we need it most.

Manitoba’s Next Year Plan!

On Tuesday, the Manitoba government laid out its plan for the year ahead in the throne speech, focusing on health care, affordability, and community safety.

For Your Health

• 870 new health-care workers and more clinics already in place.

• A new ER wait times strategy rolling out soon.

For Your Wallet

• A one-year freeze on Manitoba Hydro rates.

• Support for renters and homeowners to ease rising costs.

For Safer Communities

• More police and mental health workers on the streets.

• Plans to crack down on drug dealers and dangerous weapons.

And lastly for Our Kids

• Expanding the universal school meal program.

• A cellphone ban to help kids stay focused in class.

• New Grade 9 financial literacy lessons.

It’s all about making life easier for Manitobans while tackling some of the big challenges we face every day. What do you think of the plan?

A message from Red River Exhibition Park!

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Winnipeg’s Winter Wonderland is Back!

With snow just around the corner, here’s the perfect way to dive into the holiday spirit—Canada Inns Winter Wonderland is lighting up Red River Exhibition Park starting November 29!

This year’s event features over 1 million lights and 30+ brand-new displays along a stunning 2.5 km drive. Whether you’re skating under the stars, taking a weekend horse-drawn hayride, or indulging in holiday treats like mini donuts and poutine, it’s the ultimate winter escape.

With special experiences like:

• Horse-drawn hayrides every weekend.

• Outdoor skating to add some magic to your night.

• Multiple photo stops to snap those picture-perfect moments.

Running until January 4 (closed Dec 25), it’s the ideal way to embrace the season and soak up all the festive vibes. Tickets are on sale now—don’t miss out! Click below for all the details.

Local Community

Local Hero Saves the Day

Yesterday morning, as reported by Global News, Lorne Mansky was on his way to work when he noticed flames under a paratransit van. Without hesitation, he flagged the driver to pull over and quickly realized a large cardboard box trapped under the van was fueling the fire.

Lorne sprang into action, helping two passengers to safety. But a third passenger, a person in a wheelchair, was still trapped inside. With the lift no longer working, Lorne climbed into the van, flames still visible, and manually pumped the lift to free them.

Thanks to his bravery, everyone made it out safely. This is the kind of courage that makes a real difference, and we’re lucky to have heroes like Lorne among us.

More Scholarships for Indigenous Students

Here’s a win for Manitoba’s future. The province has increased funding for Indigenous scholarships and bursaries by $500,000 this year, doubling the number of awards to over 400 — 100% more than last year!

What does this mean?

• More opportunities: Scholarships and bursaries help break down financial barriers, making post-secondary education accessible to more Indigenous students.

• Empowered communities: This investment supports reconciliation and strengthens Manitoba’s workforce by including more diverse voices.

• Matching funds: For every dollar donated to the program, the province matches it, doubling the impact.

These awards are more than just financial aid. They’re a step toward building a brighter, more inclusive future for Manitoba, where every student has a chance to thrive. Click below for more info!

Winnipeg Sports!

Remembering Chad Posthumus

It’s with heavy hearts that we share the loss of Chad Posthumus, captain of the Sea Bears and a proud hometown hero, who passed away far too soon at just 33.

Chad was so much more than a basketball player. He was a leader, a role model, and a source of inspiration for everyone who knew him. Whether he was lighting up the court at Canada Life Centre or mentoring kids at a local camp, Chad’s presence left an unforgettable mark.

His energy, kindness, and dedication brought people together in a way few can. Losing someone like Chad leaves a hole in our community that cannot be filled.

Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, teammates, and everyone whose life was touched by his. Chad, you’ll always be remembered as a true hero. Rest in peace.

City vs. Province Hockey Rivalry

In celebration of Winnipeg’s 150th anniversary, the ice is heating up! On November 30, Mayor Scott Gillingham, City Councillors, and Winnipeg Public Service staff will face off against Premier Wab Kinew, MLAs, and Provincial staff at the Winnipeg 150 City vs. Province Hockey Game.

• Where: Gateway Recreation Centre, 1717 Gateway Rd.

• When: Puck drops at 11:15 a.m.

• Perks: Free admission, and the first 250 fans get complimentary hotdogs and drinks!

This friendly competition is more than just a game—it’s a nod to our city’s deep love of hockey and a throwback to the rivalry of Winnipeg’s centennial 50 years ago.

The Jets Are Back!

Tuesday night, the Jets proved once again why Winnipeg is a true hockey town.

Mark Scheifele led the charge with an incredible hat trick, helping the team secure a 6-3 victory over the Panthers and break their two-game losing streak. This win keeps the Jets sitting comfortably at the top of the NHL standings with 32 points!

After a tough shutout last weekend, the team bounced back in front of an electrified crowd at Canada Life Centre, showing the resilience we’ve come to expect. With a six-game road trip ahead, starting against the Penguins, this momentum couldn’t have come at a better time.

Exciting Events: Nov 22 - 24

This section only includes events until the next edition on Monday, so here’s what’s happening Friday till Sunday!

Sports🏀

• Winnipeg Run Club | 8AM, Nov 23 (FREE)

  • Location: The Forks (by the main elevator)

• Manitoba Moose vs Chicago Wolves | 2PM, Nov 23 (Tickets)

  • Location: Canada Life Centre

Family Fun🎆

• The Great Solar System Adventure – Planetarium Show | Nov 22-24 (Tickets)

  • Location: Manitoba Museum

  • Description: From the sun-scorched surface of Mercury to the icy expanses of Pluto and beyond, prepare to be subjected to the myriad dangers and wonders of our Solar System

• All That Glows | Nov 23- Dec 1 ($5 per person)

  • Location: Manitoba Electrical Museum (680 Harrow St)

  • Description: The exhibit educates visitors on the ways Christmas lighting and decorations have been revolutionized since the 1880s.

• Manitoba Skies | Nov 23-24 (Tickets)

  • Location: Manitoba Museum Planetarium

  • Description: Take a live guided tour of Manitoba’s sky!

Markets 🛍️

• Holiday Season Night Market | 6-10PM, Nov 22 (More Info)

  • Location: Sinclair Park Community Center

  • Description: There will be a gift wrapping station on site, and they will help keep your gifts secret!

• Shop Local First Market | Nov 22-24 (Free to Enter!)

  • Location: Outlet Collection Mall Winnipeg

  • Description: A 3-day popup to help encourage Winnipeg to SHOP LOCAL FIRST.

• Third + Bird Christmas Market | Nov 22-24 (Tickets)

  • Location: Red River Exhibition- Exhibition Place

  • Description: 170 vendors. From art and print to ceramics, food and drink, clothing, jewellery, housewares, candles and so much more.

• Santa Shops Local Market | Nov 22-24 (Free)

  • Location: Kildonan Place Shopping Mall

• Winter Wonderland Artisan Market | Nov 22-23 (More Info)

  • Location: Artists Emporium, 580 Roseberry St

  • Description: Browse handcrafted goods like paintings, jewelry, ceramics, textiles, woodwork, and more—perfect for holiday gifting!

• St. Norbert Farmer’s Market | 10AM-2PM, Nov 23 (More Info)

  • Location: 3514 Pembina Hwy, Winnipeg, MB

• Annual Holiday Market 2024 at Lower Fort Garry | 10AM - 4PM, Nov 23 (Tickets)

  • Location: Lower Fort Garry

  • Description: Browse the bespoke gift shop, get your family photo with Santa and join him for a Pancake Breakfast or lunch at Life a Little Sweeter Cafe.

• Deck the Halls, Skip the Malls | 11AM - 2PM, Nov 23 (More Info)

  • Location: The Melody (920 Chancellor Drive)

• Manitoba Antique Association Fall Sale | 10AM - 4PM, Nov 24 (More Info)

  • Location: Viscount Gort Hotel (1670 Portage Ave)

  • Description: Christmas decor/ornaments, Antiques, Vintage, Pyrex, Art Glass, Vintage Jewelry, Farmhouse Antiques, Mantiques, and more!

• Merry THRIFTmas Market | 11AM - 4PM, Nov 24 (More Info)

  • Location: Transcona East End C.C. Rizzuto Hall, Main and 2nd Floor

Comedy❗

• The Baby Goat Comedy Tour feat. Jesse Singh | 9PM, Nov 22 (Tickets)

  • Location: The Basement Comedy Lounge (3740 Portage Ave)

  • Description: Growing up in immigrant household while learning to navigate the unpredictable streets of Toronto, Jesse brings his own unique perspective to life on stage.

• Tom Henry Comedy | Nov 22-23 (Tickets)

  • Location: Rumor's Restaurant and Comedy Club

  • Description: Tom Henry is a comedian, actor and writer from Toronto. His acclaimed Just for Laughs produced Stand Up Special, ‘66 Jokes’, can be found on Crave TV!

• Steve Simeone Comedy | Nov 22-23 (Tickets)

  • Location: Yuk Yuks Comedy Club

Special Events 🥂

• Candlelight: R&B and Soul feat. Keisha Booker | 6:30 & 8:45PM, Nov 22 (Tickets)

  • Location: WAG-Qaumajuq

  • Description: Siscover the music of R&B and Soul at Winnipeg Art Gallery under the gentle glow of candlelight.

• Driving While Indigenous Live Event & Gala | Nov 22 (Tickets)

  • Location: RBC Convention Centre

  • Description: Driving While Indigenous is a motivational event that celebrates the power and potential of Indigenous people.

• Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre - Little Women | Nov 22 - Dec 14 (Tickets)

  • Location: John Hirsch Main Stage (174 Market Ave)

  • Description: In 1860s Massachusetts, Jo March and her sisters struggle to make ends meet while their father is away serving in the Civil War.

• Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre - The Recipe | Nov 22- 23 (Tickets)

  • Location: Tom Hendry Warehouse Theatre (140 Rupert Ave)

  • Description: Funny, poignant and subversive, The Recipe is a heartwarming Prairie Gothic.

• HYPROV Improv Under Hypnosis | Nov 24 (Tickets)

  • Location: Burton Cummings Theatre

  • Description: Your evening begins with World Renowned Hypnotist, Asad Mecci welcoming 20 volunteers* on stage to be hypnotized…

Music 🎵

Events marked with ($) require prior ticket purchase. Other events may require the purchase of food or tickets available at the door or may be free.

Thanks for reading The Winnipeg Digest! Let’s chat again on Monday!

P.S. Want to get your business in front of thousands of local Winnipeggers? Email us at [email protected].