Happy Monday, Winnipeg!

I hope you had a chance to enjoy the weekend, especially with so many of the last summer markets popping up around the city. It feels like every weekend in August has been filled with one, and it’s been such a great way to close out the season.

And to make the end of summer even sweeter, the biggest outdoor summer market is coming up this weekend. It’s the perfect excuse to gather your family and friends, enjoy the sunshine, and support local all at once.

So, let’s help you catch up on the news you might’ve missed over the weekend, so you can start the week feeling in the loop.

Now pour a coffee, settle in, and let’s dive into it together.

In today’s edition:

• Manitoba Ends State of Emergency

• Restaurant of the Week

• New Full-Size Basketball Court Opens in South Winnipeg

• Winnipeg’s Last Big Summer Market is This Weekend

• Multiple events this week & more

— Jas Singh

News

Manitoba Ends State of Emergency

It’s been a tough stretch for so many folks across the province. Weeks of smoke, water bombers overhead, and neighbours wondering when they’ll be able to go back home. On Aug. 22, there was a small step forward: the provincewide state of emergency officially came to an end.

Here’s what you should know:

• Declared July 10 and extended on Aug. 7, the order expired Aug. 22 at noon

• Local evacuation orders are still in place until it’s truly safe to return

• Wildfires are still active in Manitoba, with fire bans and restrictions continuing

This doesn’t mean the fires are gone. It just means the province no longer needs that extra layer of emergency powers.

If you’re heading out of the city or making plans near the woods, keep checking conditions before you go. Staying cautious helps protect not just the land, but the people who call it home.

So if you have plans this coming long weekend, be sure to check the wildfire status below before heading out.

Click Here: To see updates on wildfire status, evacuations, and safety info.

A message from the Canadian Condominium Institute – Manitoba Chapter!

Your chance to learn, connect, and have a say in Manitoba condo living…

If you’re a condo owner or even thinking about becoming one, this is a must-attend. Condo living comes with its own opportunities and challenges, and the Annual General Meeting is where those stories, ideas, and solutions all come together.

Hosted by the Canadian Condominium Institute – Manitoba Chapter this September, the AGM is more than just reports and finances. It’s your chance to connect with neighbours, share ideas, and play a part in shaping the future of condo life in Manitoba.

Why you’ll want to be there:

• Learn what’s changing in the world of condos, from regulations to resources

• Meet other condo owners who get what it’s like to live the condo life

• Hear directly from CCI leaders about ongoing projects and priorities

• Be part of shaping how CCI supports owners and boards across the province

It’s the kind of meeting where you’ll walk away not just better informed, but also better connected to the people who share in this unique way of living.

📍 Norwood Hotel
📅 September 24, 2025

Advertise with us by emailing: [email protected]

Restaurant of the Week: ⁠Banh Mi King

If you’ve ever walked down Portage Ave hungry, you know how many choices there are. But Banh Mi King stands out for its mix of flavour and comfort. It’s cozy, laid-back, and serves the kind of Vietnamese food that makes you want to come back again the next day.

Their menu keeps it simple but satisfying: pho, noodle bowls, poutine with a twist, and their popular baogers (soft steamed buns packed with pork belly and pickled veggies).

Why we keep coming back:

• Relaxed, rustic-industrial vibe that works for both quick lunches and casual dinners

• Affordable comfort food with bold flavours

• Family-friendly spot (yes, they’ve got high chairs!)

• Open 7 days a week, right in the heart of downtown

And of course, their namesake: the banh mi sandwiches. Fresh bread, bold fillings, and that perfect balance of crunch and flavour. It’s what keeps people calling this place a downtown staple.

📍 510 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg
📞 204-775-9323
🕑 Hours: Mon–Fri 11AM–8:30PM, Sat 12–8:30PM, Sun 12–6PM

Click Here: To check out their menu before your next visit, or order online!

Community Digest

High-Risk Offender Expected to Live in Winnipeg

We don’t love sharing stories like this as it’s heavy, and no one likes talking about crime. But sometimes, it’s better to have a heads up so we can look out for ourselves and our neighbours.

The Manitoba Integrated High Risk Sex Offender Unit has shared information about Jason Mark Bard, who was released last week on August 21, 2025 and is expected to live in Winnipeg. Officials say he is considered high risk to re-offend in a sexually violent way against adult women.

Here are the key details to know:

• Bard is 35, with a lengthy record that includes violent and sexual offences

• He’s under strict release conditions, including a nightly curfew and probation check-ins

• He is banned from contacting past victims and has a lifetime weapons prohibition

• Police stress this notice is for awareness and safety, not for vigilante action

It’s not easy to read things like this, but being informed means we can all stay a little safer. If you see something concerning, you’re encouraged to contact police or Crime Stoppers at (204) 786-8477 or toll free at 1-800-222-8477.

Click here: For more information on Jason and safety details.

Back to School is Around the Corner

It always sneaks up on us, doesn’t it? One minute you’re barbecuing by the lake, and the next you’re seeing backpacks in store windows. Summer really did fly by, and with back-to-school season here, it’s a sign those crisp fall mornings aren’t far behind.

If you (or a kid, niece, nephew, or grandkid) are starting their very first year at university, here’s a quick reminder: student photo ID cards are ready to go at the University of Manitoba.

• Pop-up Photo ID Centre at Fort Garry runs Aug. 25 – Sept. 5, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. daily (Room 102B, UMSU University Centre)

• Bring government-issued photo ID (plus a study permit if you need one)

• Lost your card? Replacement costs $25.75

• Returning students don’t need a new one each year

These cards aren’t just for the library. They’re needed for exams, recreation access, meal plans, and even your transit pass.

Click Here: For more details on the U of M student ID cards.

And even if you’re not in university, this is still the time to start prepping, whether your kid is off to high school, or it’s their very first day of kindergarten.

Click Here: To double-check school start dates across Manitoba.

City Updates

New Full-Size Basketball Court Opens in South Winnipeg

If you grew up shooting hoops on a cracked driveway or a park net with no backboard, you know how big a proper court can feel. For kids in South Winnipeg, that dream just became real.

Eaglewood Park is now home to the area’s first-ever regulation-size basketball court.

• The federal government and the City of Winnipeg funded the $275,000 project

• South Winnipeg has the city’s largest youth basketball catchment, but until now, there have been no outside full-size courts for league play

• The new court will host Winnipeg Minor Basketball Association (WMBA) spring and summer games and tournaments

• With around 22–28 local teams registered each year and will now get to play closer to home

With basketball booming in the city, thanks in part to the Sea Bears, this space gives young players a place to build skills, friendships, and memories right in their own neighbourhood.

Click Here: To learn more about the new Eaglewood Park court.

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 27 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: Lyric Theatre

  • Description: Yoga with Adrienne Shum at Assiniboine Park.

• Savour the Exchange Food Tour | 6PM-8:30PM, Aug 27 (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.

• Deftones | 7PM, Aug 27 (Tickets)

  • Location: Canada Life Centre

  • Description: Following a two week sequence of sold-out arena shows, including a double in Los Angeles at the Forum – multi-platinum GRAMMY® Award-winning Deftones announce the extension of their 2025 North American Tour with a second leg.

• Exchange Summer Fitness – Bootcamp | 12-12:45PM, Aug 27 (FREE)

  • Location: 201 Portage Plaza

• Heat & Harvest Festival | 7:30PM-11:30PM, Aug 28 (Tickets)

  • Location: St. Norbert Arts Centre

  • Description: Heat & Harvest is a music and arts festival set on the stunning grounds of the St. Norbert Arts Centre. Rooted in community, creativity, and connection to the land, the festival blends live music, local art, food, and cultural celebration in a setting like no other.

• Downtown Farmers' Market | 10AM-2PM, Aug 28 (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 Killer Keys | 8PM-12AM, Aug 28 (Tickets)

  • Location: The Basement Comedy Lounge

  • Description: Winnipeg's Only Dueling Piano Duo

• A Taste of Manitoba | Aug 28 - Sept 1 (Tickets)

  • Location: Fort Gibraltar

  • Description: This exciting event invites everyone to enjoy delicious creations from 20 local Manitoba's restaurants, showcasing the rich culinary diversity of our province. Celebrate Manitoba’s vibrant food scene with a variety of mouthwatering dishes crafted by talented chefs.

• Downtown Family Movie Night | 5PM, Aug 29 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: Bonnycastle Park

  • Description: Experience a magical cinematic evening under the stars at the 2025 Downtown Family Movie Night! Catch a screening of the 2024 blockbuster film, The Wild Robot. Enjoy pre-show activities and games, a variety of delicious food options, fun entertainment, and the chance to connect with the community—all before the movie begins.

• Just Being Jo Koy | 8PM, Aug 29 (Tickets)

  • Location: Canada Life Centre

  • Description: As one of today’s premiere stand-up comedians, Jo Koy has come a long way from his modest beginnings performing in a Las Vegas coffee house. Jo’s uniquely relatable comedy pulls inspiration from his colourful family that has reached all kinds of people and has translated into sold-out arenas around the world.

Exciting Events: August 25th - August 26th

Sports🏀

• Live Horse Racing | 7:30PM, Aug 25-27 (Free/Learn More)

  • Location: Assiniboia Downs

• Exchange Summer Fitness – Yoga in Stephen Juba Park | 12PM-12:45PM, Aug 26 (FREE)

  • Location: Stephen Juba Park

  • Description: This class will focus on building a strong foundation or yoga and everyday life.

Music 🎵

• Central Soundwave | 11:45AM-2:45PM, Aug 25 (FREE)

  • Location: Belle's Kitchen + Music Hall

• Lil Ed and The Blues Imperials | 7:30PM, Aug 25-26 (Tickets)

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

  • Description: Lil Ed and The Blues Imperials are the #1 house-rockin’ Chicago blues band in the world today!!

• Downtown Sounds Concert Series: Nelson Little | 12PM-1PM, Aug 26 (FREE)

  • Location: Celebration Zone, Graham Avenue

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

• Tannis Tyler/Grant Simpson/Honest Faces Duo/Kaidys Valentine Duo
  | 11:45AM-11PM, Aug 19 (FREE)

  • Location: Belle's Kitchen + Music Hall

Community Fun🎆

• Corn Maze | Aug 25 - 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: Coffee Filter Butterflies | 11AM-3PM, Aug 25 - Sept 1 (FREE)

  • Location: Manitoba Children's Museum

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

• Paws and Relax | 12PM-1PM, Aug 26 (FREE)

  • Location: 201 Portage Lobby

  • Description: In celebration of National Dog Day, therapy dogs from the Winnipeg Humane Society will be visiting to spread comfort, joy, and a whole lot of tail wags. These specially trained therapy dogs are here to brighten your day, offering emotional support and promoting well-being through the incredible bond between humans and animals.

• Frozen The Broadway Musical | Aug 26-27 (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 | 10AM-3PM, Aug 26-27 (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 | 6PM, Aug 26 & 28 ($)

  • 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 25 & 27

    • Drop-in Dance with Dance with Genie: 6PM-8PM, Aug 26

Special Events 🎨

• An Evening with Jennifer Jones | 7PM, Aug 25 (FREE)

  • Location: Grant Park in the Atrium

  • Description: Join Winnipeg-born curling icon Jennifer Jones for a special evening celebrating the launch of her memoir Rock Star: My Life On and Off the Ice (HarperCollins Canada). Featuring a conversation hosted by Ace Burpee followed by a book signing.

• Sunflower Expo | Aug 25 - September 16 ($)

  • Location: A Maze in Corn

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

• Europa Super Circus | Aug 25-31 (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!

• Aidan McCluskey | Aug 26-30 ($)

  • Location: Rumor's Restaurant and Comedy Club

  • Description: At 19, Aidan McCluskey left his associate's degree to pursue comedy. Four months after his first open mic, he won Acme's Funniest Person Contest, becoming the youngest winner in contest history.

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