Happy Monday, Winnipeggers!

I hope everyone had an amazing weekend, because we sure did. The Jets took Game 1 at home on Saturday, and then we hit 17°C on Sunday. Honestly, does it get much better than that?

Now let’s cross our fingers for Game 2 tonight and hope the boys can take an early lead in the series. Whiteout season is in full swing, and the energy in the city is electric right now!

Also, a quick note, we’re still looking for volunteers for our summer markets. Our first one kicks off May 10–11 at Outlet Collection Mall, and we need help with set-up, customer service, and more. If you’ve got a few hours to spare, we’d love to have you on board.

These community events are only possible with your support. So if you’re free, click the button below to sign up or learn more. Let’s build something great together.

Now, in today’s edition:

• Winnipeg Jets Rally to Win Game 1 of the Playoffs

• What’s Closed for the Jets Whiteout Party

• Restaurant of the Week

• Federal Advance Voting Ends Tonight

• Multiple events this week & more

— Jas Singh

News

Winnipeg Jets Rally to Win Game 1 of the Playoffs

It’s one down, 15 to go.

Game 1 wasn’t for the faint of heart. We were all holding our breath when the Blues pulled ahead 3 to 2 early in the second. But the Jets didn’t flinch. They stayed patient, turned up the pressure, and gave us one of the best third periods we’ve seen in a long time.

Here’s what went down:

• Alex Iafallo tied it up midway through the third, crashing the net and slipping it under Binnington

• Just minutes later, Kyle Connor scored the go-ahead goal with 1:36 left and finished the night with two assists

• Mark Scheifele also played an important part, with a goal and two assists, and passed Blake Wheeler for the most playoff points in franchise history

• The Jets completely took over late, outshooting the Blues 9 to 2 in the third and giving them no room to breathe

Even Connor Hellebuyck gave the crowd a shoutout, saying “I think our crowd was phenomenal and brought it tonight. It really helped us get the momentum when we needed it.”

So, let’s keep that energy going and bring the noise again tonight for Game 2 at 6:30PM.

Click Here: For the full overview of the game

What’s Closed for the Jets Whiteout Party

With another Whiteout party happening tonight and the Jets looking to take a 2–0 series lead, downtown’s going to be full of energy again. Whether you’re heading to the game, catching it at the Street Party, or just trying to get around, here’s what to keep in mind:

• Donald Street (southbound) is still closed and will reopen Tuesday at 7 a.m.

• Graham Avenue closes again today at 9 a.m. and stays closed until Tuesday morning

• Transit is rerouting off Graham, with alternate stops at Vaughn and Fort

• Sidewalks around the party zone remain closed until early Tuesday

• The Millennium Library closes early today at 4:30 p.m.

And just a few quick safety tips:

• Keep bags small — large bags and backpacks won’t be allowed in

• Pick a meeting spot ahead of time, especially if you're with kids

• Carpool or take transit if you can. (Parking is limited)

• And if anything feels off, let an officer know or call 911

Let’s bring the noise again tonight, Winnipeg. Wear your white, be loud, and help the Jets lock in another win at home!

Click Here: To see the full list of things that are closed for today

A Message from The Winnipeg Digest!

A Chance to Win a $150 Therma Gift Card!

Some of the best businesses we’ve featured in Winnipeg Digest have come from people like you. Friends, neighbours, and readers who know someone doing great work in our city and simply made an introduction.

So we thought it’s time to say thank you.

From now on, if you refer a local business owner to us and they advertise with Winnipeg Digest, we’ll send you a $150 Thermea gift card. And to keep it fair, they’ll get one too!

• Perfect if your partner, sibling, or friend runs a local business (in any niche)

• We’re looking to work with trusted service providers in every industry

• Our audience has grown to over 80,000 Winnipeggers and continues to grow

So, if someone comes to mind, click the button below or email us at [email protected] and help us keep highlighting the local businesses that make our city better (and win a $150 Thermea trip while you’re at it).

Restaurant of the Week: Pizzeria Gusto

If you’re craving something cozy but a little fancy, Pizzeria Gusto is one of those spots that just gets it right. It’s got that warm, intimate feel but still feels buzzy and lively. Perfect for a date night, a special lunch, or just a laid-back dinner on their patio now that summer’s coming.

Here’s what makes it worth checking out:

• Wood-fired pizza with real-deal Italian toppings

• Fresh, seasonal mains like risotto, slow-braised lamb, and seafood

• A well-crafted drink menu that goes way beyond wine (but the wine’s great too)

• Located at 404 Academy Rd, right in the heart of River Heights

And if you’re already thinking about Mother’s Day, you’re in luck. They’re hosting an elegant Afternoon Tea, complete with a special curated menu just for the occasion.

Click Here: To check out Pizzaria Gusto!

Community Digest

Celebrating Earth Day in Winnipeg

Earth Day is coming up tomorrow, April 22, and there’s no shortage of ways to get involved across the city. Whether you’ve only got time on your lunch break or want to spend a full afternoon outdoors, there’s something for everyone.

🌎 Earth Day Rally at the Legislature (April 22)

If you're downtown tomorrow, stop by the Legislature Building between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. for a high-energy rally hosted by Manitoba’s Climate Action Team.

• Live music and sing-alongs

• Student-led chants and performances

• Community energy and a call for a greener future

Click Here: For more info on the rally!

🌱 FortWhyte Alive Earth Day Celebration (April 27)

Can’t make it to the rally? Head to FortWhyte Alive on the coming Sunday, April 27 for a full-day celebration packed with fun and learning.

• Guided bison walks at 10 a.m., 12 p.m., and 2 p.m.

• Live talks on bats, cycling, water research, and wildlife conservation

• Eco-crafts, bonfires with marshmallows, and recycling drop-offs

• Wildlife ambassadors from Prairie Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre and more!

A lot is going on this week, even more than we can fit here. We’ll try to cover as much as we can, but be sure to get out there and learn more about how we can take care of this planet we all share!

Click Here: To learn more about FortWhyte Alive’s Earth Day

Federal Advance Voting Ends Tonight

We know we don’t usually talk about federal stuff in here. But don’t forget, today’s your last chance to vote early before election day.

Advance voting started April 18 and ends tonight at 9 p.m., and it’s been busy. Over 2 million Canadians showed up on day one alone, breaking records across the country.

If you’re voting today, here’s what to know:

• You must vote at your assigned advance polling station

• Check your voter card or visit elections.ca to find your spot

• Bring ID that proves your identity and address

• Or, if you can’t make it today, you can still vote at any Elections Canada office until 6 p.m. tomorrow

Don’t wait until April 28 if you can get it done now. Your voice matters, and this is your chance to use it.

Click Here: For more info on advance voting and where to vote!

City Updates

$1.25M Dream Lottery to Support Local Hospitals

We’ve all had moments where we needed our hospitals. Whether it was sitting in the ER with a sick kid, visiting a loved one in recovery, or celebrating a new baby, the teams at St. Boniface, HSC, and the Children’s Hospital have been there for us.

Now, through the Tri-Hospital Dream Lottery, we’ve got a chance to give back — and maybe win big while we’re at it.

Here’s what’s in store:

• Six grand prize options, including luxury homes or $1.25 million in cash

• A 50/50 jackpot that climbed past $1.3 million last year

• 125 bonus cash prizes, plus early bird and bonus draws

The best part? Every ticket supports care for nearly 1 million Manitobans each year. That means more equipment, more research, and more life-saving treatment for the people we care about most.

Tickets start at $100, and bundles are available if you want to increase your chances. It’s a fun way to dream big while helping the hospitals that keep our province strong.

Click Here: For all the details on the prizes and tickets

Manitoba Hosts First-Ever Fishers Summit

It’s been a long time coming, but commercial fishers in Manitoba are finally getting the chance to help shape the future of their own industry. For the first time ever, the province is hosting a Commercial Fishers Summit, bringing together folks from both the north and south basins of Lake Winnipeg.

This isn’t just another meeting. It’s a real opportunity for fishers to speak up, share their experiences, and have a say in what happens next.

Here’s what to know:

• The summit is happening in Selkirk on Friday, May 9

• It’s open to all commercial fishers and key stakeholders

• The goal is to support a more sustainable, long-term vision for freshwater fishing in Manitoba

Fishing brings in nearly $100 million a year for our province, and it deserves real attention. If you’re part of this world, or know someone who is, reach out to [email protected] to get involved.

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 Unplugged | 7PM, April 23 (Tickets)

  • Location: The Leaf Assiniboine Park

  • Description: Step away from the constant buzz of technology and the demands of daily life, grab your yoga mat and book and come to The Leaf Unplugged.

• Pat Barrett - Beautiful Life Tour | 7PM, April 23 (Tickets)

  • Location: Burton Cummings Theatre

  • Description: Catch Pat Barrett live on his Beautiful Life Tour as he brings an evening of worship, heartfelt songs, and powerful storytelling.

• World Table Tennis Day | 5-8PM, April 23 (More Info)

  • Location: Forks Market South Aisle

  • Description: Exhibitions of National-level players, Challenges to the public, and other fun table tennis activities.

• Jesse Cook Concert | 8PM, April 24 (Tickets)

  • Location: Burton Cummings Theatre

  • Description: The world-renowned guitarist known for blending flamenco, jazz, and world music. With a JUNO Award win, 11 nominations, and more!

• Chocolate Making Workshop | 7-9PM, April 24 (Tickets)

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

  • Description: In this hands-on workshop, you'll explore the importance of single-origin chocolate, uncovering its unique flavors and ethical significance. Learn about the fascinating journey from bean to bar.

• ​Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Orchestra Concert | April 24-26 (Tickets)

  • Location: Centennial Concert Hall

  • Description: Witness the beginning of Harry’s most important battle yet, with the full film accompanied by a live symphony orchestra.

• Winnipeg Jets Away Games | April 24 & 27

  • Location: Canada Life Centre

  • Description: The Winnipeg Jets are hosting Whiteout Watch Parties at Canada Life Centre for away games.

• Mulvey Night Market | 5-9PM, April 25 (More Info)

  • Location: 421 Mulvey Avenue East

  • Description: New, Collectibles & Antiques to Handmade & Homemade!

• The Great Benjamins Circus | April 25-27 (Tickets)

  • Location: Assiniboia Downs

  • Description: You’ll see Clowns, Acrobats, Aerialists, and daredevils. From North America, South America, Europe and Asia, they’ll give you and your family 90 minutes of non-stop excitement and energy.

Exciting Events: April 21st & 22nd

Sports🏀

• Winnipeg Jets vs. St. Louis Blues | 6:30PM, April 21 (Sold Out)

  • Location: Canada Life Centre

• Winnipeg Jets Whiteout Street Party | 4:30PM, April 21 (Sold Out)

  • Location: Donald Street

Music 🎵

• Mitchell Stewart Klyne | 12-2:45PM, April 21

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

• Shandra Levreault/Geoff Erickson | 12-11PM, April 22

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

• Scott Nolan | 7PM, April 22

  • Location: Royal George

• Marco Castillo (solo-duo up full) & Brazilian Beats | 7:30PM, April 22 (Tickets)

  • Location: Centre Culturel Franco-Manitobain

Family Fun🎆

• Mini Mondays at the Children's Museum | 10AM - 2PM, April 21

  • Location: Manitoba Children's Museum

  • Description: Fun-filled day of stimulating play designed for our youngest visitors, children under 4 years old! (Theme: Magic Hats & Help The Clown)

• Earth Day at the Children's Museum | 11AM - 3PM, April 22 (More Info)

  • Location: Manitoba Children's Museum

  • Description: High-five Planet Earth and join us for exciting activities, crafts, and special guests to celebrate Earth Day! Learn how to garden, listen to special guests and more!

• Earth Day Rally | 11:30AM - 1:30PM, April 22 (Free)

  • Location: Legislature Building

  • Description: Live music, sing-alongs, student-led chants, performances and more!

• Toddler Tuesdays at The Leaf | 9:30-10AM, April 22 (Tickets)

  • Location: Mediterranean Biome at The Leaf

  • Description: Your little one will enjoy music and games while discovering the joy of movement!

Special Events 🎨

• Pet Paint Night | 7PM, April 22 (More Info/Tickets)

  • Location: Hidden Pocket Billiards

  • Description: Create a unique, framed Pop Art painting of a cat or dog. A selection of pictures will be provided to choose from. All materials, directions, and encouragement provided.

• Benji Rothman Comedy | April 22-23 (Tickets)

  • Location: Rumor's Restaurant and Comedy Club

  • Description: He was a semi-finalist at Sirius XM Canada’s Top Comic, he’s performed at the Winnipeg Comedy Festival, Oddblock Comedy Festival and toured all across Canada.

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