Hey Winnipeggers,

We’re officially stepping into November this week! Is it just me, or did this year fly by? It’s already been over half a year since we kicked off this newsletter, and what a ride it’s been! Huge thanks for all the support you’ve shown—it means the world to us.

In today's edition of the Winnipeg Digest:

• $38.4M for Electric Buses in Winnipeg

• 2024 Manitoba Healthy Aging Awards

• Restaurant of the Week

• Jets Make History with 8-0 Season Start!

• Multiple events this week & more

— Jas Singh

News

$38.4M for Electric Buses in Winnipeg

Winnipeg’s bus scene is going electric, and it’s bringing 250 new jobs with it! Thanks to $38.4 million in funding from the federal and provincial governments, New Flyer is expanding right here in our city. This means they’ll soon be building electric buses from start to finish—all in Winnipeg.

Here's the plan:

• $15 million loan from the federal government

• $10 million from the province

• $13.4 million interest waiver to help things along

By 2027, New Flyer plans to roll out ~240 buses a year, putting us at the forefront of green transit. Right now, parts of these buses get shipped to the U.S. for finishing, but soon, everything will happen here, from building the shell to installing electric systems.

For Winnipeggers, this means new jobs, a greener city, and a big step toward sustainable transport!

2024 Manitoba Healthy Aging Awards

On Friday, the Manitoba government honored some amazing Manitobans aged 65 and older who’ve dedicated their time to helping others age well. These awards recognize people who go the extra mile, from leading the way in senior living to creating activities that bring generations together for a healthier community.

Here’s what they’re celebrating:

• Older Adult of the Year Award: For those showing real leadership in advocating for seniors.

• Healthy and Active Living Ambassador Award: Celebrating seniors inspiring others to stay active and healthy.

• Intergenerational Impact Award: Honoring Manitobans who’ve brought generations together to support healthy aging.

It’s wonderful to see the city celebrate everyday folks, reminding us of the difference we can all make. Click below to see this year’s inspiring recipients!

A message from The Locals!

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Shop Local First This Holiday Season!

Holiday shopping can be a real hassle. Long lines, high prices, and the struggle to find unique gifts—only to end up with items from big corporations that feel, well, the same. That’s why, this year, we’re teaming up with The Locals at the Outlet Collection Mall to help you shop differently!

The Locals store brings together brands from multiple Winnipeg vendors, all under one roof, making it easy to find unique, quality gifts made right here in the city. Even better, they’re running new deals every week throughout November to help you shop local first while getting some great discounts.

So, starting November 1, the first deal kicks off: grab a gift box and get a free $10 gift card! And with new deals every Friday in November, it’s the perfect chance to find thoughtful gifts from Winnipeg makers—without the usual holiday stress.

So, instead of rushing through big stores, let’s support our local businesses this holiday season and Shop Local First!

Restaurant of the Week: Honey Bunny Pastry

Alright, gluten-free and celiac friends, this one’s for you! Honey Bunny Pastry Shop at 832 Corydon Ave is a cozy, family-run spot with both gluten-free and regular treats. They’ve got over 10 gluten-free options, from cheesecakes to apple pies, so everyone can find something to love.

We stopped by last week and tried the honey cake and vanilla napoleon. Everything was fresh, full of flavor, and made with care. It’s no wonder they’ve built such a loyal crowd; this place just feels like home.

If you’re on the hunt for delicious gluten-free treats or regular options, Honey Bunny is worth a visit. Check out our video from the visit [here] and pop by next time you’re in the neighborhood. You’ll be glad you did!

City Updates

Historic Bridge Repairs at The Forks

For anyone who loves biking or walking through The Forks, you know how much the old rail bridge means to us. It’s been a vital connection, especially for cyclists going between South Point Park and The Forks.

But now, as reported by CBC News with repairs expected to cost over $10 million, this historic bridge is going to need some serious work before it’s back.

While work is underway, starting with a major repair to the concrete counterweight, there’s no clear timeline for reopening. This closure is a reminder of the importance of investing in our active transportation network, and advocates are hoping for a temporary solution. The Forks is working to find options to reopen it sooner, but a long-term fix is the end goal. Here’s to hoping we get this local gem back in action soon!

MPI Invests $1.3M in Drivers Training

Getting a driver’s license is about to get easier for folks in rural and remote areas of Manitoba! MPI is investing $1.3 million to make driver training accessible by partnering with University College of the North (UCN), Assiniboine College, and Citizens’ Bridge. This initiative is great news for communities like Thompson, Churchill, The Pas, and beyond, where affordable training options have been limited.

With this program, more people will have the chance to earn their licenses safely, helping reduce accidents and empowering residents with greater job, education, and independence opportunities. It’s a big step toward safer roads and creating new possibilities for Manitobans across the province.

Winnipeg Sports

Jets Make History with 8-0 Season Start!

It feels like I come back every edition with another Jets win, and I’m not complaining! The Jets just made history with a perfect 8-0-0 start to the season, marking the longest win streak ever for the team. Saturday’s win against Calgary even made coach Arniel the first NHL coach to notch eight straight wins in his first year with a team.

With 16 straight regular-season wins dating back to last season, the Jets are on fire, and it’s putting Winnipeg in the spotlight. This isn’t just a hockey win—it’s a win for the entire city. Let’s keep this streak going strong, so come cheer them on today as they go for 9-0 against the Toronto Maple Leafs!

Blue Bombers Secure Home Field for the Western Final

Clear your schedules, Bombers fans—our team just locked in their spot to host the Western Final at Princess Auto Stadium on November 9. After an intense 28-27 win over Montreal, the Bombers have secured first place for the fourth year in a row, a huge accomplishment for both the team and the fans who’ve been cheering them on.

This bye week gives the team a chance to rest up and prepare to bring their best in front of a packed home crowd. The Western Final is set to be another unforgettable game, and if they win, it’s straight to the Grey Cup. Get ready to show up in blue and gold, and let’s make some noise for our Bombers!

Events coming up this week:

This section includes only the major events happening soon. For a complete list of all events, you'll have to wait for future editions!

• The Leaf After Dark: Adults Only Nights | 7-9PM, Oct 30 (Tickets)

  • Location: The Leaf

  • Description: Enjoy a relaxing adults-only atmosphere complete with live music, wine/beer, as well as charcuterie plates!

• Deadly Masquerade - M**der Mystery Cocktail Affair | 7PM, Oct 30 (Tickets)

  • Location: Shrugging Doctor Beverage Company (483 Berry Street)

  • Description: An elegant evening of mystery, tapas, and music. Solve a thrilling M**der in a lavish, gothic ballroom setting.

• Boo at the Zoo: After, After Dark 18+ Night | 6-11PM, Oct 31 (Tickets)

  • Location: Assiniboine Zoo

  • Description: Enjoy all the fun of Boo at the Zoo with extra spooky sights, live music by Men In Cheap Suits, and an adults-only costume contest—no jump scares, just excitement!

• Night at the Museum | 7-10PM, Oct 31 (Tickets)

  • Location: Dalnavert Museum and Visitors' Centre

  • Description: Explore the house… if you dare, uncover your future with tarot readings, and dress to scare for a chance to win our costume contest!

• Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics | 6:30 & 8:45PM, Oct 31 (Tickets)

  • Location: Fort Garry Hotel Concert Hall

  • Description: Discover music inspired by Halloween at Fort Garry Hotel Concert Hall under the gentle glow of candlelight.

• Wpg Punk Rock Flea Market | 10AM - 5:30PM, Nov 2 (Tickets)

  • Location: RBC Convention Centre (Hall D)

  • Description: Over 100 incredible vendors for a day of shopping, music, and support for local businesses.

• Artisan Avenue by Inspirations Market | Nov 2-3 (Tickets)

  • Location: Red River Exhibition Place

  • Description: Early Christmas market with 120+ artisans to shop from!

Exciting Events: Oct 28th & 29th

Sports🏀

• Winnipeg Jets vs Toronto Maple Leafs | 6:30PM, Oct 28 (Tickets)

  • Location: Canada Life Centre

  • Description: In hopes of making their record 9-0! Let’s go out and support!

Music 🎵

• Open Mic | 6-10:30PM, Oct 28

  • Location: X-Cues Cafe & Lounge

  • Note: Sign up begins 15 minutes before each set.

• Phantom of the Opera | 7:30PM, Oct 29 (Tickets)

  • Location: Burton Cummings Theatre

  • Description: Experience the silent horror film starring Lon Chaney on the big screen as your Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra performs the score live!

• Tribute to Buddy Holly | 6PM, Oct 29 (Tickets)

  • Location: Club Regent Event Centre

  • Performer: Zachary Stevenson

• Tuesday Featured Songwriter Evening Series | 7PM, Oct 29

  • Location: Royal George (123 Regent Avenue West)

  • Performers: Dianna & Colette Desjardins (Hosts) & Nelson Little

• Mardi Jazz | 7:30PM, Oct 29 (Tickets)

  • Location: Centre Culturel Franco-Manitobain (340 Provencher Boulevard)

  • Performer: Evan Miles

• Rich Aucoin/Leossa| 8PM, Oct 29 (Tickets)

  • Location: Club St B (171 Dumoulin St)

Family Fun🎆

• Corn Maze @ A Maze In Corn | Oct 28-31 (Tickets)

  • Location: A Maze In Corn (1351 Provincial Rd 200)

  • Description: Enjoy the country views while wandering through the corn maze, climb the giant bale pyramid, and visit the petting zoo.

• HEEBIE JEEBIES | Oct 28-31 (Tickets)

  • Location: Heebie Jeebies (53071 La Salle Road)

  • Description: One of the most terrifying Halloween experiences and haunted houses near Winnipeg, Heebie Jeebies is back for its annual scare-fest.

• Six Pines Haunted Attractions | Oct 28-31 (Tickets)

  • Location: Six Pines (4 km North of Perimeter Hwy on Sturgeon Road)

  • Description: Continuously strived to offer Manitoba’s haunt enthusiasts an ever-changing range of haunted houses since inception.

• Boo at the Zoo | Oct 28-31 (Tickets)

  • Location: Assiniboine Park Zoo

  • Description: The Zoo's transformed for the spooky season, with rides, games, treats and performances!

• Toddler Tuesdays at The Leaf | 9:30-10AM, Oct 29 (More Info)

  • Location: Mediterranean Biome at The Leaf

  • Description: Your little one will enjoy music and games, listen to fascinating stories, and discover the joy of movement in the beautiful Mediterranean Biome.

Special

• The Play That Goes Wrong | Oct 28 - Nov 9 (Tickets)

  • Location: John Hirsch Mainstage (174 Market)

  • Description: The Play That Goes Wrong is the right choice if you’re looking for a hilarious night out!

• Free Drop-In Group Music Lessons | 4-6PM, Oct 29 (Free)

  • Location: West End Culture Centre, 586 Ellice Ave

  • Description: Great opportunity for ages 8-18 to explore their musical talents.

• Nathan Macintosh Comedy | Oct 29-Nov 2 (Tickets)

  • Location: Rumor's Restaurant and Comedy Club

  • Description: Most recently performing for his third time on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on NBC, Nathan has also appeared on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert on CBS, Conan on TBS, and multiple Just For Laughs Galas.

CHEERS!

Thanks for reading The Winnipeg Digest! I’ll see you again on Wednesday!

P.S. Want to sponsor our newsletter? Email us at [email protected].