Hey Winnipeggers!

As we mentioned a few editions ago, we want to put on our own events! But to do that, we need your help.

To start, we have a question—would you even come? From our last poll, we know you all love markets, so we’re thinking about putting on our own. It would be free for you to attend, with us charging just the vendors. The dates? Early May (May 10-11), right at that sweet spot between spring and summer.

We need your thoughts. Would you come? Yes or no, let us know in the poll at the end! And if you have any additional comments or ideas, drop them in after the poll. If this works, we’ll keep bringing you more free events that also support local businesses!

Be sure to answer the poll at the end of the email!

In today’s edition:

• Free Provincial Park Entry for February

• Manitoba Ramps Up Border Patrols

• Charity of the Week

• New Retro Gaming Bar Opens in Downtown

• Multiple events this week & more

— Jas Singh

News

Free Provincial Park Entry for February

With all the snow piling up, it can feel tough to get out and enjoy what winter has to offer. But this February, Manitoba’s provincial parks are giving us the perfect reason to bundle up and head out. Entry is completely free all month long, making it so much easier to enjoy everything winter has to offer.

Here’s what’s waiting for you:

• Free ice-fishing shelters at Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park.

• Ski slopes at Asessippi and Whiteshell Provincial Parks.

• Trails for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, fat biking, and even snowmobiling.

• Outdoor skating rinks, hockey arenas, and toboggan hills for the whole family.

And don’t miss Manitoba Winter Trails Day on February 8. You can join park guides for a snowshoe trek in Birds Hill or a hike through the unique spruce forest at Spruce Woods.

While entry is free, Snopasses are still needed for snowmobiles on designated trails. Be sure to respect the trails, keep your pup on a leash, and pack out anything you bring in.

So, grab your gear, make some memories, and click the button below for trail updates and all the details you’ll need!

Manitoba Ramps Up Border Patrols

The whole country has been talking about the potential 25 percent tariffs from the U.S. One of the main reasons is concerns over border security. President Trump has called on Canada to stop illegal cross-border traffic, including migrants and drugs, and he’s pushing hard as tariffs are set to start on February 1.

Manitoba is taking action. Premier Wab Kinew announced that conservation officers are joining the RCMP and Canada Border Services Agency to strengthen patrols along the Canada-U.S. border.

Here’s what’s happening:

• Patrols are focusing on backroads and remote areas, keeping watch for illegal crossings and suspicious activity.

• Conservation officers are equipped with snowmobiles, helicopters, and utility vehicles to cover tough terrain.

• The province is investing over 1.4 million dollars into staffing, equipment, and RCMP resources to support the effort.

These patrols are about more than security. Unsafe crossings are dangerous, even deadly. Officers are working to protect lives while securing the border.

A message from Lazer Grant!

Tax Debt Doesn’t Have to Be Overwhelming

Tax season has a way of sneaking up on us—and if you’re already carrying debt, it can feel like an impossible mountain to climb. Those outstanding balances, late payments, and CRA penalties don’t just sit there quietly—they grow, adding stress to your already full plate.

But here’s the thing: you don’t have to face it alone.

At Lazer Grant Insolvency, we are experienced in tax debt relief and have spent years helping people just like you. Whether it’s negotiating with the CRA, reducing penalties, or finding ways to ease your financial burden, we’re here to help you breathe a little easier.

Here’s how we can help you:

• Work directly with the CRA to create manageable solutions

• Explore debt-relief options that fit your situation

• Offer expert advice so you feel confident moving forward

This isn’t just about getting through tax season—it’s about taking one more step toward financial freedom. Click below to learn more and book a free call today!

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

Charity of the Week:

Prairie Strides Annual Market!

Prairie Strides is an incredible adaptive riding program for children with disabilities. Through the help of specially trained horses, they empower kids aged 5 to 15 who face challenges like cerebral palsy, autism, and visual impairments. The program gives these kids confidence, joy, and a chance to grow in a way that’s truly special.

Their Annual Market Fundraiser is happening February 1 and 2 at Assiniboia Downs, and it’s a perfect chance to support their work while enjoying a fantastic event.

• Browse over 70 local vendors with antiques, crafts, and more.

• Try your luck with a 50/50 draw.

• Be one of the first 1000 visitors each day to get entered to win a 65” Smart TV combo.

So head over, shop local, and help Prairie Strides keep making a difference for kids who need it most!

Community Digest

Lights on the Exchange Returns to Brighten Winter

The Exchange District is glowing, literally. Running from January 21 to March 21, Lights on the Exchange brings stunning light installations to storefronts, rooftops, alleys, and more.

This isn’t just your average art festival. Canadian multimedia artists have created pieces that draw on the rich history of the Exchange District to share untold stories about the neighborhood.

• You’ll find these light-based artworks spread throughout the Exchange District, making it a perfect winter adventure.

• And It’s a chance to see the neighbourhood in a whole new light!

New Retro Gaming Bar Opens in Downtown

Gamers, sci-fi fans, and anyone looking for a cool new hangout, get ready. Select Start officially opens January 30 on the second floor at 110 Market Avenue. Mixing retro-futurism with Japanese video game history, this spot is like stepping into another world.

Why it’s worth checking out:

• Their inspired cocktails and elevated bar menu make it more than just a gaming spot.

• Classic video game consoles let you relive some of your favorite gaming moments from the past.

Whether you’re in it for the games, the food, or just want a fun night out, Select Start has something for everyone!

City Updates

Métis Artist Brings New Life to Downtown

Some of you might’ve already seen it driving through downtown. The north wall of the RBC Convention Centre now features a massive mural created by Métis tattoo artist Justine Proulx.

The design is centered around the number four, a sacred teaching in Indigenous culture, and spans almost an entire block.

• It’s part of the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ’s ongoing efforts to bring public art to the community while celebrating Indigenous stories.

• This is their largest project yet, highlighting a meaningful and beautiful piece of our city’s growing cultural landscape.

Take a stroll along St. Mary Avenue and check it out in person—it’s breathtaking.

Peavey Mart Shutters Stores Across Canada

It’s tough news for rural communities and families across the country. After more than 55 years, Peavey Mart is closing all 90 of its locations. Starting in Winnipeg in 1967, the store became a go-to for farmers, ranchers, and homeowners, especially in smaller towns.

Even with efforts like restructuring and securing financing, the challenges proved too much. For many, this isn’t just about losing a store; it’s losing a piece of their community.

Liquidation sales have already started, marking the end of a company that supported so many.

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!

• We call it Ballet: Sleeping Beauty Dance & Light Show | 6:30 & 9PM, Jan 31 (Tickets)

  • Location: WAG-Qaumajuq

  • Description: Dancers in glow-in-the-dark costumes bring this classic tale to life on stage.

• Ram Motorsports Spectacular | Jan 31 - Feb 1 (Tickets)

  • Location: Canada Life Centre

• Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity | 7PM, Feb 1 (Tickets)

  • Location: WAG-Qaumajuq

  • Description: Catch the screenings of the best films from the 2024 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity!

• Rewind Vintage Market | 10AM - 1PM, Feb 1 (More Info)

  • Location: Parlour Coffee

  • Description: A local market to buy cool vintage clothing!

• Snoball Winter Carnival 2025 | 12-4PM, Feb 1 (More Info)

  • Location: 185 Young St

  • Description: Free meal and hot beverages from NOON - 2 pm, horse drawn carriage rides, Outdoor fun/games & fireside activities.

• 7th Annual Skate the Oval | 2-5PM, Feb 1

  • Location: 999 Sargent Avenue

  • Description: Skate around the Oval, try actual speed skates, see how fast you can skate with the radar gun, enjoy a hot chocolate, and hang out!

• Learn to Winter | 1-4PM, Feb 2

  • Location: The Forks

  • Description: Skate and Snowshoe Lessons, DJs by The Canopy, Winter Wellness Classes, Storytelling and Drumming in the Teepee and more!

• The Great Skate 2025 | 9-11AM, Feb 2

  • Location: The Forks

  • Description: The Great Skate is a 6KM race along the Nestaweya River Trail.

Exciting Events: Jan 29th & 30th

Music 🎵

• Shandra Levreault/Mark Conroy/Lisa Windsor & Derrick Gottfried/Sol James | 12-11PM, Jan 29

  • Location: Belle's Kitchen + Music Hall

• God and the Bear | 9:30PM, Jan 29

  • Location: Shannons Irish Pub and Eatery

• Gary Gach | 8PM, Jan 29

  • Location: Royal George

• MUSIC OF THE NIGHT: DREAM ROLES II | 7PM, Jan 30

  • Location: Le Patio 340

  • Description: A sensational experience where music and theater blend harmoniously on the theme of: Dream Roles II

• Two out of Three/Derek Robertson/Justin Séguin/ Prairie Soul

  | 12-11PM, Jan 30

  • Location: Belle's Kitchen + Music Hall

• Veronica Blackhawk/Mckye/Julie Fern/Doug McArthur | 7PM, Jan 30 (Tickets)

  • Location: CTRL Space Records

• Jaden Wisneski | 7-9PM, Jan 30

  • Location: Rae & Jerry's Steak House

• Squid Squad | 8PM, Jan 30

  • Location: The Toad in the Hole

• Bobby Dove/Last Birds | 8:30PM, Jan 30

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

• CAR287 & Off Henderson/ Picture of Health | 9PM, Jan 30 ($10 tickets)

  • Location: The Osborne Taphouse

Family Fun🎆

• Worlds Largest Snow Maze | Jan 29 - March 30 (Tickets)

  • Location: A Maze in Corn

• Waitress - Musical | Jan 29 - Feb 1 (Tickets)

  • Location: Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre

  • Description: When Jenna finds herself pregnant in a dead-end relationship, she realizes she must address her life, and find her true self in a world.

• Yellowstone: A Wild West Musical! | Jan 30 - March 20 (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 untamed wilderness of family drama, ranching antics, and a hearty dose of cowboy humor.

• Greendell Community Centre Winter Carnival | Jan 30 - Feb 2 (More Info)

  • Location: Greendell Community Centre

  • Description: Bingo, face painting, live music, and so much more!

Special Events 🎨

• Tim Gray Comedy | Jan 29 (Tickets)

  • Location: Rumor's Restaurant and Comedy Club

  • Description: With over 12 years of experience. He has appeared on the CBC Radio's "The Debaters" 3 times, Just for Laughs Northwest, San Francisco Sketchfest, Winnipeg Comedy Festival, etc.

• Raw Almond Restaurant | Jan 29 - Feb 16 (Tickets)

  • Location: The Forks

  • Description: World class chefs gather to create a pop-up restaurant experience like no other.

• Mix Tapes From My Mom | Jan 29 - Feb 15 (Tickets)

  • Location: Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre - Tom Hendry Warehouse

  • Description: Winnipeg theatre veteran Cory Wojcik, shares a deeply personal story of the day he travelled back and forth between two hospitals.

• Fat Joke Play | Jan 29 - Feb 2 (Tickets)

  • Location: Prairie Theatre Exchange

  • Description: A fusion of stand-up comedy, storytelling, and unapologetic fact-blasting, Fat Joke thrusts fatphobia into the spotlight.

• Oyster Nights Under Patio Lights! | 5-8PM, Jan 30

  • Location: The Forks Market

• Mid Canada RV & Boat Sale | Jan 30 - Feb 2 (Tickets)

  • Location: RBC Convention Centre

• Dan Soder Comedy | Jan 30 - Feb 1 (Tickets)

  • Location: Rumor's Restaurant and Comedy Club

  • Description: New York City based comedian and actor who’s best known as ‘Mafee’ on the hit series Billions on Showtime.

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].