Midweek check-in, Winnipeg!

There’s a lot packed into today’s update, so if you usually just skim the headlines, trust us, today’s one to read.

We’ve included a few important safety updates that could really help, especially with everything happening around the city right now. And if you’re the planner in your group, you’ll find all the midweek events and some early weekend picks to get ahead of the rush.

And don’t worry, our full weekend roundup is coming in Friday’s edition, like always.

So take a breather, sip your coffee, and scroll down to catch up on everything you missed.

In today’s edition:

• Four New Measles Exposure Sites Identified in Winnipeg

• St. Anne’s Road Construction Is Hurting Local Businesses

• New Outdoor Fitness Trail Opens in the Exchange

• 272 Affordable Housing Units Coming to Winnipeg

• Multiple events this week & more

— Jas Singh

News

Four New Measles Exposure Sites Identified in Winnipeg

Just a heads-up, if you were out running errands last Sunday, this is something you might want to take a minute for.

Public health officials are asking anyone who visited these four Winnipeg spots on July 21 to keep an eye on their health, just in case:

• Child and Family Services, 290 Jarvis Ave. (10:45 AM – 1:30 PM)

• La Grotta Mediterranean Market, 1360 Taylor Ave. (11:30 AM – 1:45 PM)

• West Coast Kids, 1290 Kenaston Blvd. (11:55 AM – 2:25 PM)

• HomeSense, 1585 Kenaston Blvd. (12:30 PM – 3:15 PM)

There’s been a possible measles exposure at all four locations. And if you were there around those times, you’re asked to check your vaccine records, watch for symptoms (like fever, red eyes, or a rash), and call your health provider if anything comes up.

Even if you're feeling fine, double-checking your immunization status helps protect kids, older adults, and anyone with ongoing health concerns.

If you're unsure or have questions, it’s always okay to reach out to your health provider. As we’re all doing our part to look out for one another!

Click Here: To see what symptoms to watch for and check out the latest exposure sites.

Community Spotlight

St. Anne’s Road Construction Is Hurting Local Businesses

Lately, it’s been hard not to notice how quiet St. Anne’s Rd has become.

With ongoing construction tearing up sidewalks and making parking nearly impossible, a lot of small businesses on St. Anne’s Road are finding it hard to stay open. And while summer usually brings a steady flow of foot traffic, this year, many shops are seeing far fewer customers, and it’s starting to take a real toll.

These aren’t just places we pass by. They’re the neighbourhood staples where we’ve picked up birthday cakes, grabbed post-game snacks, or caught up with a friend over coffee. And now, they need us to return the favour.

Here’s how you can help:

• Order takeout or delivery from your favourite spots on St. Anne’s Rd

• Walk or bike over if you live close

• Call ahead and ask the best way to get in

• Share your favourite spot with a friend or neighbour

• And leave a kind review or post to spread the word

Right now, more than 60 businesses are being affected. And while many are family-run, others have been rooted in the community for decades. So this is our chance to show up for them the way they’ve always shown up for us.

Click the link below to see the full list of businesses you can support and help keep their doors open during this tough stretch.

And if you can, share this with a friend or neighbour too. As every bit of support makes a difference.

Click Here: To See the List of Businesses You Can Support!

City Updates

New Outdoor Fitness Trail Opens in the Exchange

You know that feeling when the sun’s out and you suddenly feel like doing a few stretches mid-walk? Looks like Stephen Juba Park had the same idea.

There’s a brand new fitness trail in the heart of the Exchange, and it’s perfect for anyone looking to get moving, whether you’re on your lunch break, walking the dog, or just need a break from the day.

• ⁠There are six workout stations spread out along the trail

• Each one includes simple exercises that work for all fitness levels

• You can scan QR codes for guided routines 

• And yes, there are even “high-five zones” to help you celebrate every rep

Whether you’re squeezing in a quick stretch between errands or inviting a friend for a walking workout, it’s a thoughtful little upgrade that makes moving your body feel easy… and even kind of fun.

Click Here: To see all the interactive stations in action and plan your next visit!

272 Affordable Housing Units Coming to 5 Winnipeg Neighbourhoods

We all know how tough it’s gotten to find a place that feels like home and fits the budget. But this week, the City brought some real movement in the right direction.

Six new housing projects just got the green light, all on City-owned land. Together, they’ll bring nearly 1,000 new homes to Winnipeg, with a big chunk set aside as affordable housing.

Here’s what’s in the works:

• 272 of the 696 total units will be set aside as affordable housing

• They’ll be built in Osborne, Taché, Pembina Hwy, and Watt St

• Some buildings will include community spaces, childcare, or support services

⁠With construction expected to start within the next year…

This is a solid step toward a more livable city, for more of us. And a reminder that with care, collaboration, and the right kind of investment, good things can actually get built.

So click below to learn more about the project and how it could help shape the future of housing in our city.

Click Here: To see which neighbourhoods are part of the plan and what’s being built.

City Updates

Winnipeg’s Air Quality Hits “Very High Risk”

These days, before we even think about stepping outside, our whole team’s made it a habit to check the air quality first. And we’d recommend you do the same.

With the wildfire smoke drifting in, it’s something we’re all paying closer attention to. The risks are real, especially for kids, elders, and anyone with health issues.

Everything you need to know:

• Winnipeg is currently at a 10+ on the air quality index, "very high risk"

• Other areas affected include Brandon, Selkirk, Steinbach, and Portage

• Symptoms from smoke can include coughing, headaches, and sore eyes

• ⁠Those most at risk include seniors, young kids, and folks with health conditions

If you have to be outside, wearing a proper mask can help protect your lungs. The smoke won’t last forever—but while it’s still hanging around, a few small precautions can go a long way in keeping you and your household safe.

Click Here: To check today’s air quality before heading out.

Goldeyes Game Kicks Off with First Pitch from Dermot Mulroney

You don’t expect to see a Hollywood star throw the first pitch at a Goldeyes game, but that’s exactly what happened Monday night at Blue Cross Park.

Actor and musician Dermot Mulroney (yep, the one from My Best Friend’s Wedding) took the mound to kick off the night, and the crowd gave him a warm Winnipeg welcome.

Here’s what else to know:

• Mulroney is in town filming November 1963, a new movie with John Travolta

• The film focuses on the days leading up to JFK’s assassination

• He made time to toss the ceremonial first pitch before the game

• And he’ll be around a little longer as filming continues across the city this month

You never really know who you’ll spot in Winnipeg these days, and that’s part of the fun. From the big screen to the ballpark, it’s moments like these that make the city feel a little more connected.

Click Here: For a quick look at Dermot’s first pitch!

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!

• Winnipeg Sea Bears vs Saskatchewan Rattlers | 7:30PM, August 1 ($)

  • Location: Canada Life Centre

• The Umbrellas of Cherbourg The New Wave Musicals of Jacques Demy | 8PM, August 1 (Tickets)

  • Location: Winnipeg Art Gallery—Qaumajuq

  • Description: Join us for a rooftop film screening of The Umbrellas of Cherbourg (92 min.) by Jacques Demy, presented by the Winnipeg Film Group. One of the most gifted filmmakers to emerge during the French New Wave.

• Movies in the Park: Lion King (1994) & Mufasa | 6:30PM & 8:45PM, August 1 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: Lyric Theatre

  • Description: The Lyric Theatre concession will be serving popcorn, ice cream treats, and other tasty snacks.

• Alison Krauss & Union Station Arcadia 2025 tour | 7:30PM, August 1 (Tickets)

  • Location: Centennial Concert Hall

  • Description: For nearly four decades, Alison Krauss & Union Station have upheld their legacy as one of the most influential and widely celebrated acts in bluegrass and roots music.

• 2025 Corydon Avenue Concert Series | 7PM-10PM, August 1 & 2 (FREE)

  • Location: Lilac Street S and Hugo Street N

  • Description: Bring a lawn chair and sit back and enjoy the warm Winnipeg nights with the sounds of Jazz, Rock, Pop, Soul and Blues music (or hit the dance floor and practice your best moves).

• Icelandic Festival of Manitoba 2025 | August 1-4 (FREE)

  • Location: Gimli, Manitoba

  • Description: Celebrate Icelandic culture, heritage, and summer fun at the 136th annual Icelandic Festival of Manitoba – Islendingadagurinn. Held in scenic Gimli, just one hour north of Winnipeg, this iconic event brings together history, entertainment, and community for four unforgettable days.

• Manitoba Harness Racing | August 2 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: The Loop

  • Description: Heart-pounding action, exhilarating finishes, and unforgettable moments on the track! Whether you’re a seasoned racing fan or a curious newcomer, there’s something for everyone.

• Summer Spark Market | 3PM-9PM, August 2-3 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: Tyndall Park Community Centre

  • Description: Don’t miss this family-friendly event filled with live entertainment, food trucks, games, and giveaways, plus a lumpia eating contest, free Zumba, local artists, and fun activities.

• Folklorama 2025 | August 3-16 (Tickets)

  • Location: Various venues throughout Winnipeg

  • Description: Travel the world without a passport! Experience world-class entertainment, enjoy delicious authentic cuisine, warm hospitality, and view beautiful cultural displays during Folklorama, the largest and longest-running multicultural festival of its kind in the world.

• Jazz in the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden: Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra Ensemble | 12PM-1PM, August 3 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: Assiniboine Park

• Pollinator Garden Scavenger Hunt with CPAWS | 10AM-3PM, August 3 (More Info)

  • Location: Pollinator Garden, Assiniboine Park Zoo

  • Description: Join the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) at the Zoo to participate in fun activities in the Pollinator Garden to learn about native wildlife and pollinators.

Exciting Events: July 30th & 31st

Events marked with (Tickets / $) require advance purchase. Double-check dates before heading out!

Sports🏒

• Winnipeg Goldeyes vs Fargo-Moorhead | 6:30PM, July 30 ($)

  • Location: Blue Cross Park

• Live Horse Racing | 7:30PM, July 30 (Free/Learn More)

  • Location: Assiniboia Downs

• Exchange Summer Fitness – Bootcamp | 12-12:45PM, July 30 (FREE)

  • Location: 201 Portage Plaza

• Victory Lane Speedway Race #8 | 7PM, July 31 (Tickets)

  • Location: Victory Lane Speedway

Community Fun🎆

• South Osborne Farmers’ Market | 4PM-8PM, July 30 (FREE)

  • Location: Lord Roberts Community Centre

• Play at The Forks | Daily (FREE/More Info)

  • Basketball with Basketball Manitoba: 6PM-8PM, July 30

    • Location: CN Field and Stage

  • Table Tennis with Sport Manitoba: 6PM-8PM, July 30

    • Location: On Grass Along CN Field and Stage

  • Skateboarding with Pitikwé: 12PM-4PM, July 31 - August 3

    • Location: The Plaza Skatepark

  • Nature-Based Crafting with Next Door Neighbour Studio: 6PM-6:30PM, July 31

    • Location: In the Public Orchard

• Summer Line-Up: Tick Puppets | 11AM-3PM, July 30 - August 3 (FREE)

  • Location: Manitoba Children's Museum

  • Description: From 11AM-3PM daily, enjoy special activities that include crafts, games, and so much more.

• The Market at FortWhyte Farms | July 30 - August 1 (FREE)

  • Location: FortWhyte Farms

  • Description: Our summer market is the place to buy fresh, naturally grown, in-season produce, and delicious baked goods.

• Baby Bison Walk | July 30 & Aug 2 ($)

  • Location: FortWhyte Alive

  • Description: Come see the ninth-largest land animal at its smallest and cutest! See the herd in action, hear how this icon of the prairie almost disappeared, and feel a connection to the herd as you see the miracle of baby bison.

• Downtown Farmers' Market | 10AM-2PM, July 31 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: Manitoba Hydro Place along Graham Avenue

  • Description: The Downtown Winnipeg BIZ’s popular Outdoor Farmers’ Market has been bringing local food and goods downtown for more than 12 years.

• Transcona BIZ Markets | 11AM-4PM, July 31 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: Transcona Centennial Square

  • Description: The markets showcase a rotating variety of locally grown fresh produce, handmade arts and crafts, specialty teas, and much more.

• Bee Amazing Free Summer Activities | 11AM, July 31 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: Garden City Shopping Centre

  • Description: Each week features a new lineup of popular characters—from superheroes to princesses—guaranteed to delight kids of all ages.

• Paddle Nights | 6PM-8:30PM, July 31 ($)

  • Location: FortWhyte Alive

  • Description: Spend an evening paddling before sunset for the perfect summer night.

• Bison Bus Tour | July 31 & August 3 (Tickets)

  • Location: FortWhyte Alive

  • Description: See North America’s largest land mammal from just metres away, interacting in their natural habitat.

Performances🎭

• Summer Concert Series: Clyde Heerah and the Paradize Band |
  7PM, July 31 (FREE)

  • Location: Lyric Theatre

• MAMMA MIA: An Abba Love Story | July 31 - August 3 (Tickets)

  • Location: Canad Inns Destination Centre Fort Garry

  • Description: Get ready for a summer of love, laughter and ABBA hits, in this light-hearted musical comedy that centers around a mother and daughter opening a boutique hotel on a tiny tropical island. The show explores the complications of love, friendship and second chances, as old passions are awakened and new love is born.

Special Events/Comedy🥂

• Spirits with Spirits | 7-9PM, July 30 (FREE)

  • Location: The Kings’s Head Pub

  • Description: Get cozy (or creeped out) with an evening of ghost stories and great drinks. It’s the perfect free event for fans of the spooky, the strange, and the spirited.

• Savour the Exchange Food Tour | 6PM-8:30PM, July 30 (Tickets)

  • Location: The Exchange District

  • Description: Home to over 50 unique local restaurants, the Exchange District is an inspired community of culinary creativity. Savour a few of these one-of-a-kind dining experiences on a food tour hosted by the Exchange District BIZ.

• Ali Macofsky | July 30 - August 2 ($)

  • Location: Rumor's Restaurant and Comedy Club

  • Description: Comedian, actress, and writer who began her comedy career at the age of 7 when she would join Ryan Seacrest on KIIS FM every weekday morning and prank call listeners as her character “Lil Ally” and has continued to pursue comedy ever since.

• Cinema Under the Stars 2025 - Louise Violet | 9:30PM, July 31 (FREE)

  • Location: Ruins of St. Boniface Cathedral

  • Description: Movies Under the Stars offers screenings of French-language films, accessible to all thanks to the presence of English subtitles. This is a completely free event that takes place every Thursday during the summer in the ruins of St. Boniface Cathedral.

Music 🎵

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

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