Hey Winnipeggers!

Hope you’ve had a chance to get outside and enjoy this sunshine. It finally feels like spring is sticking around, and with that, we’re starting to see the first signs of local markets popping up again.

There’s so much to look forward to over the next few weeks, and we’ll be keeping you in the loop on all of it. So make sure you’re keeping up with each edition so you don’t miss any of the cool stuff happening around Winnipeg.

In today’s edition:

• Federal Election Signs Going Up in Winnipeg

• Charity of the Week

• Free Access to Manitoba Parks in 2025

• Library Looking for a New Maker-in-Residence

• Multiple events this week & more

— Jas Singh

News

Campaign Signs Going Up in Winnipeg

As we mentioned in the last edition, the federal election is officially set for April 28—and you might’ve already noticed the signs on lawns or folks knocking at your door.

With just 36 days of campaigning, things are ramping up quickly. So, whether you’re following closely or haven’t given it much thought yet, it’s good to know what’s ahead.

Here’s what’s going on:

• Mark Carney, our new PM, officially kicked things off this weekend by dissolving Parliament.

• It’s the shortest campaign legally allowed—just over a month long.

• Candidates across Winnipeg are already out putting up signs and knocking on doors.

• Some of the names you’ll be seeing:

  • Terry Duguid (Liberal, Winnipeg South)

  • Marty Morantz (Conservative, Winnipeg West)

  • Leah Gazan (NDP, Winnipeg Centre)

• Cost of living is top of mind, with groceries, rent, and gas being big stress points.

• Canada-U.S. relations are expected to play a big role too, especially with trade and global tensions rising.

So don’t be surprised if your doorbell rings soon—it’s all part of getting ready for April 28.

A message from Red River Exhibition Park!

Helping Hands for Students: Apply Now

If you’re a student, chances are your summer’s already filling up—maybe you’re job hunting, lining up internships, or figuring out how to save for next year’s tuition.

It’s a lot.

But while you’re updating your resume and sorting out your summer plans, here’s something else worth adding to your to-do list: applying for a Red River Exhibition Foundation scholarship.

They’re here to give students that little bit of extra help—especially when you’re juggling work, school, and everything in between.

💛 Here’s what’s available:

• Agriculture & Rural Life – For students connected to the land or rural communities

• Business & Tourism – For the next generation of entrepreneurs and hospitality leaders

• Performing Arts & Aerospace – For those chasing dreams on stage or in the sky

And there are even more scholarships listed—so be sure to visit the website to see the full list. 📅 Most applications close the second Friday in May, so now’s the perfect time to apply.

And hey—if you’ve got kids or grandkids gearing up for a busy summer, be sure to pass this along. A little support now can go a long way later.

P.S. Looking to advertise in the Winnipeg Digest? Reply to this email or reach out at [email protected]!

Charity of the Week:

Toba Centre for Children & Youth

Some stories are hard to hear, but even harder to ignore.

Toba Centre is a place where kids who’ve experienced abuse or witnessed violence can feel safe, supported, and heard. With over 3,300 children from across Manitoba coming through their doors, their work reaches every corner of the province.

And inside their new space at Assiniboine Park, police, social workers, and medical staff work together under one roof—making it easier for families to get the help they need, without being retraumatized in the process.

Because no child should ever have to face something scary on their own.

Here’s how you can help:

• Donate to support a child’s healing, whether it’s one-time or monthly

• Volunteer your time or skills to support families directly

• Host a fundraiser to raise awareness in your community

• Provide in-kind gifts by ordering from their wishlist

When our community comes together, we can make sure every child feels protected, supported, and surrounded by care. That’s the kind of Winnipeg we believe in.

City Updates

Free Access to Manitoba Parks in 2025

Manitoba has no shortage of beautiful parks. Whether it’s hiking in Spruce Woods, paddling through the river, or just relaxing with friends at Birds Hill, these places give us a chance to slow down and enjoy the best parts of living here.

And for this year only, you can visit every provincial park in Manitoba for free.

As part of the 2025 budget, the province announced that park access will be free for all of 2025. It’s a simple change, but one that makes a big difference for families planning summer trips or weekend getaways.

Here’s what else you should know:

• The province is ending its deal with Aspira, a U.S. company that handled permit transactions

• From 2020 to 2025, Aspira collected over 7 million dollars in admin fees

• Manitoba now plans to work with local companies to handle permits and keep that money here

More time outside, fewer costs, and more support for our local economy!

Library Looking for a New Maker-in-Residence

If you’re someone who loves to create and enjoys sharing that passion with others, this could be the perfect opportunity.

The Winnipeg Public Library is looking for its next Maker-in-Residence to lead workshops and open studio sessions at the Millennium Library’s ideaMILL. Last year’s program was a hit, with classes on origami, calligraphy, and all kinds of hands-on creativity that brought people together.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Applications are now open for two 16-week terms

• The first runs from June to September, and the second from mid-August to December

• Makers should be skilled in tech, visual arts, or digital media

• You’ll host regular drop-in hours and lead at least five public workshops

If you know a local artist, teacher, or creative who loves to work with people of all backgrounds and abilities, pass this along. It’s a great way to give back while helping others tap into their creative spark.

Restoring a North End Landmark: The Palace Theatre

If you’ve ever driven past the old Palace Theatre on Selkirk and thought someone should fix that up, you’re not the only one.

As reported by CTV News, A group of North End Winnipeggers is working to bring the historic space back to life as a community hub for art, music, and Indigenous storytelling.

Here’s what’s happening:

• The building has been empty since the early 2000s, though it was once a vaudeville and movie theatre built in 1912

• The University of Manitoba owns it and had planned to demolish it in 2019

• After community pushback, those plans were paused and locals formed the Palace Theatre Community Committee

• Since then, they’ve removed mold, asbestos, and handled major repairs

• The next step is transferring ownership to a local organization and launching fundraising efforts

There’s still a long road ahead, but with heart, history, and community on their side, this North End landmark is one step closer to shining again.

Community Digest

Winnipeg Artist Joins ‘Elbows Up!’ Movement

Sometimes, the best ideas start with a sketch and that’s exactly what happened for Winnipeg designer Carolyne Scramstad.

As reported by CTV News, after seeing Elbows Up! gain national traction, Carolyne added her own twist: a hockey-playing beaver with attitude. It’s funny, bold, and very, very Canadian.

Here’s the full story:

• It all started when Mike Myers shouted "Elbows Up!" on SNL, sparking a wave of patriotic energy

• That moment inspired Carolyne to sketch a grumpy beaver in a red Team Canada jersey

• The design became part of her shop, Real Salty Design Co., and was printed on mugs, shirts, and hoodies

• That launch led to her first 30 items selling out quickly in a preorder

• Encouraged by the response, she’s now planning more Canadian animals to join the lineup

It’s more than just a T-shirt. It’s a Winnipeg artist turning national pride into something you can wear and smile about. So, If you want to support the movement and a local artist, check out her brand below.

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 Jets vs New Jersey Devils | 7PM, Mar 28

  • Location: Canada Life Centre

• The Cold AF Comedy Tour! | 8:30PM, Mar 28 (Tickets)

  • Location: The Basement Comedy Lounge

  • Description: The COLD AF Comedy Tour brings you 4 of the best comics in all of Northwestern Ontario!

• 54-40 with guest The Pursuit of Happiness | 7PM, Mar 28 (Tickets)

  • Location: Club Regent Event Centre

  • Description: Over the course of 40+ years of performing and recording, 54•40 has not only made their mark on the Canadian music industry, but the entire cultural landscape.

• Spring Artisan Market 2025 | Mar 28-29

  • Location: Artists Emporium (580 Roseberry St)

  • Description: Celebrate the arrival of spring at the Spring Artisan Market 2025! Join us for a vibrant shopping experience featuring unique, handcrafted creations by talented local artists and artisans.

• Frozen in Time Musical | 11AM & 2PM, Mar 29 (Tickets)

  • Location: Burton Cummings Theatre

  • Description: This event will be filled with storytelling and singing along to all your favourite songs! To make the afternoon more special, everyone is encouraged to come dressed as their favourite prince, princess, character or even villain.

• The Beach Boys | 8PM, Mar 29 (Tickets)

  • Location: Canada Life Centre

  • Description: The Beach Boys helped define the sound of 1960s rock and pop, blending catchy melodies with rich harmonies. Known for their mix of surf rock and feel-good pop, their music continues to bring sunny, nostalgic energy to every stage they play.

• Cat Kid Comic Club The Musical | 2PM, Mar 29 (Tickets)

  • Location: Centennial Concert Hall

  • Description: Cat Kid and Molly Pollywog have started an epic club to teach 21 rambunctious baby frogs how to make their own comics!

• Start Seeding at St. Norbert Farmers Market | 11AM, Mar 29

  • Location: 3514 Pembina Highway

  • Description: Start seeding with some Manitoba experts and garden gurus. It also includes a FREE SEED SWAP TABLE - bring some seeds, take some seeds⁠ and always buy local!

• Latin Sundays at The Forks | 5:30-9:30PM, Mar 30

  • Location: Room 201, second floor of The Forks Market

  • Description: Experience Latin culture through music, dance, food and performances.

Exciting Events: March 26th & 27th

Music 🎵

• Jessie Christian/Chris Magas/Central Soundwave/Mommy, Daddy

  | 11:45-11PM, March 26

  • Location: Belle's Kitchen + Music Hall (1212 Nairn Avenue)

• Cupid's A Cowgirl Tour (Alexandra Kay/Logan Crosby) | 7PM, March 26 ($)

  • Location: Park Theatre

• Tommy Emmanuel Concert | 8PM, Mar 26 (Tickets)

  • Location: Burton Cummings Theatre

  • Description: Internationally renowned acoustic guitarist and 2024 Grammy Award winner.

• Jeff Adams/Ardie Sarao/Giffen Duo/Bluestem Band

  | 11:45-11PM, March 27

  • Location: Belle's Kitchen + Music Hall (1212 Nairn Avenue)

• Ben Notes 'Listen to the Silence' Single Release Show | 8PM, March 27 ($)

  • Location: Sidestage Winnipeg

• Kane Brown Concert | 7PM, Mar 27 (Tickets)

  • Location: Canada Life Centre

  • Description: Blends country with pop and R&B, creating songs that feel both modern and deeply personal. Known for hits like Heaven and What Ifs, his live shows are all heart—high energy, sing-along moments, and a whole lot of soul.

• WSO presents Beethoven's Fourth UnTuxed | 11:45AM, Mar 27 (Tickets)

  • Location: Centennial Concert Hall

• Mike Plume | 8:30PM, Mar 27 (Tickets)

  • Location: Times Change(d) High & Lonesome Club

Family Fun🎆

• Yellowstone: A Wild West Musical! | March 26 - April 13 (Tickets)

  • Location: Canad Inns Destination Centre Fort Garry (1824 Pembina Hwy)

  • Description: Saddle up for a wild ride as Destination Dinner Stage takes you on a hilarious journey through the wilderness of family drama, and a hearty dose of cowboy humor.

• Casey and Diana Play | Mar 26 - April 12 (Tickets)

  • Location: John Hirsch Mainstage

  • Description: Inspired by Princess Diana’s historic visit to Toronto’s Casey House in 1991, Casey and Diana is a tremendously moving and surprisingly funny portrait of the men at the heart of the AIDS crisis, their devoted caregivers, and the ‘People’s Princess’.

• Prophecy Play | Mar 26-30 (Tickets)

  • Location: Rachel Browne Theatre

  • Description: Cassandra has been blessed with the ability to see the future, but her curse is that no one will ever believe her.

• Orchid Sale at the Leaf | Mar 26-29 (Tickets)

  • Location: Tannis M. Richardson Classroom (The Leaf), 145 The Leaf Way

  • Description: Orchids are available for purchase on a first come, first-served basis, while quantities last. We will only be selling the Phalaenopsis orchids from the display.

• Downtown Farmers’ Market | 10AM - 2PM, Mar 27

  • Location: Cityplace

  • Description: Find fresh and local vegetables, baking, preserves, meat, crafts, jewelry, and other food and artisan items at this year-round Farmers’ Market in the heart of downtown.

Special Events 🎨

• Career Fair Canada: Winnipeg Career Fair & Training Expo | Mar 26 (Tickets)

  • Location: RBC Convention Centre

  • Description: Get in front of hiring managers! Network and apply with Employer Exhibitors. Build the meaningful rapports you need to advance your career in the direction that you want.

• Kelly Taylor Comedy | Mar 26-29 (Tickets)

  • Location: Rumor's Restaurant and Comedy Club

  • Description: Kelly has performed all over Canada, 46 states, Europe, and Asia. He has done every hockey function possible. From the Telus Cup, Memorial Cup, World Jrs. Stanley Cup Party, and even a NHL Dressing room.

• Crown Royal Rig | 4:30-8:30PM, Mar 27 (More Info)

  • Location: True North Square

  • Description: Kane Brown High Road Tour pre-concert tailgate at True North Square

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].