Happy Monday, Winnipeg!

I hope you had a great weekend despite the rain. Hopefully, you still had a chance to get out and enjoy the city.

In today’s edition, we’ll look at some big travel news, a new way to support a local restaurant, and a few fun things happening around Winnipeg this week.

So grab your coffee and let’s start the week together.

In today’s edition:

• Air Canada Strike Grounds Hundreds of Flights

• Restaurant of the Week

• Winnipeg Opens New Colourful Basketball Court and Playground Full of Art

• One of Canada’s Biggest Pickleball Tournament is Coming to Winnipeg This Week

• Multiple events this week & more

— Jas Singh

News

Air Canada Strike Grounds Hundreds of Flights

We didn’t get the chance to cover it when it began Saturday, but by now you’ve probably heard: Air Canada flight attendants walked off the job this weekend. But by Sunday afternoon, the federal government stepped in, ordering them back to work at 2 p.m. ET.

It’s been a tough couple of days, for both workers and passengers:

• Around 700 flights were cancelled, stranding more than 100,000 travellers

• Picket lines continued at airports across the country, including Winnipeg

• Flight attendants say they’d rather be flying than on a picket line, but they’re asking for fair pay and recognition of all the unpaid hours they put in

It’s never easy when these disputes hit home. On one hand, families and travellers are left scrambling. On the other hand, the workers who keep us safe in the air are fighting to be treated fairly.

Let’s hope both sides reach a real deal soon. And if you’re flying in the next week or so, make sure to double-check your flight status as changes are still rolling out.

Click Here: To see the latest update, and rebooking options from Air Canada.

A message from Red River Ex!

Discover Home Renovations, Handcrafted Goods & More at Winnipeg’s Hutterite Expo

The Hutterite Manufacturing & Associate Expo is back, bringing together over 70 vendors who specialize in everything from farming supplies to home renovation materials and handcrafted goods. It’s part trade show, part shopping market, and the kind of event you’ll want to wander through slowly, because there’s so much to see.

Here’s what makes it worth the visit:

• 70+ vendors all in one place, from farm gear to home renovations

• Beautiful kitchen and bath cabinets, countertops, and doors to inspire your next project

• Patio sets, garden supplies, and even handmade leather gloves and belts

• A chance to see first-hand the workmanship Hutterite communities are known for

It’s the kind of event where you’ll bump into neighbours, get ideas for the house, or finally track down that thing you didn’t even know you needed. And with free parking and $10 admission, it’s an easy way to spend a few hours.

📍 Exhibition Place at Red River Exhibition Park
📅 August 22–23, 2025
🕙 10 AM – 6 PM daily
🎟 Admission: $10 (Parking is free!)

Advertise with us by emailing: [email protected]

Restaurant of the Week: Commonwealth Kitchen & Bar

Every city has a few restaurants that feel like they belong to everyone, and Commonwealth Kitchen & Bar has become one of those places in Winnipeg. With its beautiful heritage space and lively atmosphere, it’s been a go-to spot for dinners, celebrations, and late nights with friends.

But this summer brought heartbreaking news. On July 10, the restaurant was vandalized and someone tried to set it on fire. Thankfully, the sprinklers stopped it quickly, but the water damage was so severe that Commonwealth is expected to be closed for another six months.

Instead of asking for donations online, they’ve decided to do something that feels true to who they are: host a Block Party Fundraiser. For three nights at the end of August, they’ll fill the lot next door with food trucks, DJs, dancing, and performances: a way to raise funds and bring people together at the same time.

If you can’t make it, you can still buy a support ticket and be entered to win a $500 Commonwealth gift card plus a pair of Jets tickets.

It’s a tough chapter, but it’s also a chance to show what community support looks like. If you’ve ever eaten there, or even if you’ve just meant to, it’s the perfect moment to give back and support a local business when they need it most.

📅 August 29–31, 2025
📍 Parking lot beside Commonwealth, 456 Main Street
🎟 Click below to get your tickets on Showpass and to learn more about the event!

Click Here: To support Commonwealth’s Block Party Fundraiser and check out ticket prices!

Community Digest

Downtown Comes Alive as Burt Block Party Draws Thousands

What a weekend that was. The Burt Block Party turned downtown into one big celebration, and the turnout was incredible. Thousands of Winnipeggers filled the streets, the music carried late into the night, and for a few days it felt like the whole city was moving to the same beat.

Here’s what stood out:

• Huge crowds filled the block all weekend long

• The lineup kept the energy high right through the final set

• It was one of those moments that reminded us how much fun this city can be when we all come together

If you made it out, you know how special it felt to be in the middle of it all. And if you didn’t, we’re just glad we can keep you in the loop on everything happening around the city.

We love being able to share these moments with you. And hey, if you’ve got friends or family who somehow don’t know about us yet… well, this is your sign to share the Digest with them. So they can be informed about events like these in advance!

Click here: To see more photos from The Burt Block Party!

Last Alleyways Market of the Summer is Happening This Friday

If you’ve ever wandered through the Exchange on an Alleyways night, you know it’s something special. A market nestled between some of the city’s oldest buildings, music echoing through brick alleys, people dancing and laughing under the lights: it feels like Winnipeg at its best.

And this Friday is the last one of the summer, and best of all: it’s FREE.

Here’s what you’ll find:

• A lively market right in the heart of the Exchange District

• Pop-up bars, art installations, and live performances around every corner

• Tango dancing in the street and music that makes the whole place buzz

It’s not just a market, it’s a full on experience, where every corner surprises you with something new. And with this being the final Alleyways night of the season, it’s also a little reminder: summer’s almost over, so grab every last chance to enjoy nights like this while you can.

Hope to see you out there soaking it all in. And if your friends haven’t been yet, maybe this is the perfect weekend to bring them along.

Click here: To plan your night at Alleyways in the Exchange!

City Updates

New Colourful Basketball Court and Playground Open at Northwood

It’s always a good day when a neighbourhood gets something new to celebrate. Over the weekend, Northwood Community Centre cut the ribbon on a brand-new basketball court and playground, and it’s already clear this is going to be more than just a place to play.

Here’s what’s new:

• A full court with fresh backboards, rims, and game lines

• A vibrant mural created with Sisler High students and local artists

• “Welcome” written at centre court in Ojibwe, Cree, Dakota, and Michif

• Updated playground equipment, seating, and pathways for families to enjoy

It’s not only about giving kids and teens a safe, fun space to stay active. But also about pride, connection, and having a place where everyone belongs. Seeing the artwork, the colours, and the care put into it, you can feel the love poured into this space.

So next time you’re near Burrows Avenue, stop by Northwood and see what’s new. It’s a slam dunk for the neighbourhood.

Click Here: To read more about the upgrades at Northwood Community Centre!

One of Canada’s Biggest Pickleball Tournaments is Coming to Winnipeg This Week

Pickleball fever is real. And this week, Winnipeg gets to be right at the centre of it. The Myoflex National Championship kicks off Tuesday at Taylor Tennis Centre, and it’s bringing some of the country’s best players to our city.

Here’s the scoop:

• Over 700 players are registered, with events running Aug. 19–24

• The tournament includes singles, doubles, para, and even a new provincial team competition

• Matches are happening at the Taylor Tennis Centre (1500 Taylor Ave.), a one-of-a-kind spot that makes this tournament feel extra special

• Registration’s closed, but spectators are welcome to come watch

Even if you’ve never held a paddle, this is one of those “worth checking out” kind of events. Between the scale of it, the energy of the games, and the chance to see pickleball played at a high level, it’s a special week for Winnipeg sports fans.

So if you’re looking for something different (and fun) to do, grab a seat and catch some games: you might just leave wanting to play yourself.

Click Here: To check out the full tournament schedule!

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!

• Wellness Wednesdays at the Lyric Theatre | 6PM, Aug 20 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: Lyric Theatre

  • Description: Yoga with Adrienne Shum at Assiniboine Park.

• Savour the Exchange Food Tour | 6PM-8:30PM, Aug 20 (Tickets)

  • Location: The Exchange District

  • Description: Savour a few of these one-of-a-kind dining experiences on a food tour hosted by the Exchange District BIZ.

• Exchange Summer Fitness – Bootcamp | 12-12:45PM, Aug 20 (FREE)

  • Location: 201 Portage Plaza

• Cinema Under the Stars 2025 - UN P’TIT TRUC EN PLUS | 9PM, Aug 21 (FREE/More INfo)

  • 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.

• Downtown Farmers' Market | 10AM-2PM, Aug 21 (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.

• The Life and Work of David Wynyard Bellhouse, a Winnipeg Architect Lexture | 12PM, Aug 21 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: 101-177 Lombard Avenue

  • Description: In this talk, we will describe his building background in England and his own work in the building industry in Manitoba, illustrated with several examples that are mostly standing today.

• Transcona BIZ Night Markets | 4-8PM, Aug 21 (FREE)

  • 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.

• CEBL’s 2025 Championship Weekend/Festival | Aug 21-24 (More Info)

  • Location: Multiple Venues

  • Description: A celebration of culture, music, community and Canadian basketball. The weekend includes the top CEBL teams competing to win the league championship trophy, a concert lineup showcasing exciting musical performers, minor basketball events, and an array of activities designed to engage a cross-section of the local community.

• Europa Super Circus | Aug 21-31 (Tickets)

  • Location: Under the Big Top at Assiniboia Downs

  • Description: Performances by world-class artists from all over the globe include high-flying aerialists, tight-wire acrobatics, FMX riders in the Wheel of Death, dizzying roller skaters, comedic clowns, and more!

• Alleyways in the Exchange 2025 | 5PM-10PM, Aug 22 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: Exchange District

  • Description: Explore curated markets, live performances, and hidden gems in the alleys of the Exchange District. Featuring a market, audio performances, an art lounge, and dance performances all against the backdrop of a National Historic Site in Winnipeg’s most walkable urban neighbourhood.

• Chinatown & Dim Sum Tour | 11AM-1PM, Aug 23 (Tickets)

  • Location: Chinatown

  • Description: You’ll discover the customs of dim sum, from ordering etiquette to cultural insights, while exploring the historic area on foot. Learn about the history of Chinatown and walk away filled with food, knowledge, and a new appreciation for this beautiful, unique downtown neighbourhood!

• Manitoba Night Market & Festival | 3PM-11PM, Aug 24 (Tickets)

  • Location: Assiniboia Downs

  • Description: Discover over 100 Manitoba artisans and vendors, indulge in delicious eats from 20+ food trucks, and enjoy a wide variety of live music, a tattoo pop-up, and kids’ entertainment that will keep the whole family smiling.

Exciting Events: August 11th & 12th

Sports🏀

• Live Horse Racing | 7:30PM, Aug 19-20 (FREE)

  • Location: Assiniboia Downs

• Exchange Summer Fitness – Yoga | 12-12:45PM, August 19 (FREE)

  • Location: Stephen Juba Park

Music 🎵

• Micah Perry + Sawyer Brown | 11:45AM-2:45PM, Aug 18 (FREE)

  • Location: Belle's Kitchen + Music Hall

• Downtown Sounds Concert Series: Drum Café | 12PM-1PM, Aug 19 (FREE)

  • Location: Celebration Zone, Graham Avenue

  • Description: Hungry for good music with your lunch? Enjoy FREE live performances.

• Octopoulpe/Bo.Senberg/Hippo | 7:30PM, Aug 19 ($)

  • Location: Sidestage Winnipeg

  • Description: Octopoulpe from Korea, Bo Senberg from France, with Local Guests Hippo!

• Ryan Bullock/Jessie Christian/Mitchell Klyne Duo/Suzanne Mariani
  | 11:45AM-11PM, Aug 19 (FREE)

  • Location: Belle's Kitchen + Music Hall

• Dust Rhinos | 8PM, Aug 19 ($)

  • Location: Blue Note Park

Community Fun🎆

• Corn Maze | August 18 - Nov 2 (More Info)

  • Location: A Maze In Corn

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

• Summer Line-Up: String Paintings | 11AM-3PM, Aug 18-24 (FREE)

  • Location: Manitoba Children's Museum

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

• Wild Edibles Walk | 6PM-7:30PM, Aug 19 (Tickets)

  • Location: FortWhyte Alive

  • Description: Led by retired botanist Charles Burchill, you will be guided through FortWhyte’s trails to discover the possibilities wild plant foods can add to your outdoor (and meal-time) adventures.

• Naawi-Oodena Seasonal Market | 4PM-8PM, Aug 19 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: Oodena Gas & Convenience Store Parking Lot

  • Description: Designed to showcase Indigenous entrepreneurs, artists, and food vendors, the market is an opportunity to bring people together in celebration of culture, creativity, and local commerce.

• Frozen The Broadway Musical | Aug 19-27 (Tickets)

  • Location: Rainbow Stage

  • Description: Adapted from the first Frozen film which was the highest grossing film of the year (2013) and the highest-grossing animated film of all time.

• The Market at FortWhyte Farms | Aug 19-22 (FREE)

  • Location: FortWhyte Farms

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

• Paddle Nights | Aug 19 & 21 ($)

  • Location: FortWhyte Alive

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

• Play at The Forks | Daily (FREE)

  • Location: CN Field and Stage

    • Basketball with Basketball Manitoba: 6PM-8PM, Aug 18 & 20

    • Drop-in Dance with Dance with Genie: 6PM-8PM, Aug 19

Special Events 🎨

• Cirque Italia Water Circus | 7:30PM, Aug 18 (Tickets)

  • Location: St. Vital Centre

  • Description: Join the largest traveling spectacle in the United States and Canada, a universe of extraordinary events that captivate over 1 million happy spectators every year.

• Sunflower Expo | Aug 18 - September 16 ($)

  • Location: A Maze in Corn

  • Description: Explore 8 acres of various sunflower varieties with beautiful photo opportunities along the way!

• Experiencing Eden: Disability and the Natural World | Aug 18-23 (FREE)

  • Location: La Maison des artistes visuels francophones

  • Description: Through this inclusive art exhibit, L'Arche Winnipeg's members invite you into their perspectives as people with disabilities.

• Shaun Murphy | Aug 19-23 ($)

  • Location: Rumor's Restaurant and Comedy Club

  • Description: Shaun Murphy is a New York City comedian originally from Buffalo whose likability and awkwardness keeps audiences captivated whenever he performs.

• A Lemay Forest Celebration | 7PM, Aug 19 (Tickets)

  • Location: St. Norbert Arts Centre

  • Description: Join us for a concert celebrating Manitoba's newest provincial park, the Lemay Forest, featuring virtuoso violinist Martin Beaver and friends.

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