Happy Friday, Winnipeg!

After all the buildup around that snowstorm, it ended up being far less dramatic than expected. But we’ll gladly take that small win.

Colder weather is creeping back in next week, so if you’ve been meaning to step out, this is your weekend. Make the dinner plan. Go for the walk. Take the kids somewhere fun. Say yes to something.

There’s a lot happening around the city right now, and we’ve rounded it all up for you below. From local markets and theatre shows to family-friendly events and cozy spots worth checking out, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of it.

Scroll down, pick a few things, and plan your weekend properly.

In today’s edition:

— Jas Singh

After multiple incidents and ongoing safety concerns raised by front line staff, the province is moving ahead with new safety upgrades at hospitals across Manitoba.

The government announced expanded use of the SAFE mobile app, along with the addition of 128 new institutional safety officers to strengthen on site support and response.

The SAFE app is now available at HSC, St. Boniface, Brandon Regional Health Centre, Thompson General Hospital and Swan Valley Health Centre.

It gives staff direct access to security, real time safety alerts, and emergency notifications through one mobile platform.

Other upgrades include stronger entry controls, expanded surveillance, and new prevention measures to reduce risk inside hospitals.

For many nurses and health care workers who have asked for safer workplaces, these steps matter. Creating safer hospitals helps protect the people caring for our families and the patients who rely on them every day.

Click Here: To read more about the provincewide hospital safety upgrades.

PS: Share this with all the healthcare workers you know so they’re aware of these changes!

If a European river cruise has been sitting on your bucket list, this is one of those offers worth paying attention to.

For select 2026 and 2027 departures, AmaWaterways is including a FREE complimentary land package with your Bonaventure Travel booking.

That means up to four extra nights in cities like Prague or Vienna before or after your cruise, giving you more time to explore instead of rushing in and out.

And if you’re wondering where this could take you, here are a few featured itineraries to consider:

This offer runs until March 31, 2026, and it’s a smart way to turn a great cruise into a fuller travel experience without adding to your budget.

Bonaventure Travel handles the details from start to finish, so all you need to do is decide where you want to go.

Click here: To view the full house & plan your showing!

Click here: To view the full house & plan your showing!

Click here: To view the full house & plan your showing!

There’s something new to look forward to this spring, especially if you love a good laugh.

The Winnipeg Comedy Festival returns April 20 to 26, and this year marks its 25th anniversary. The festival has announced its 2026 gala hosts, and it’s a lineup packed with familiar names.

The anniversary Mega Shows will be recorded at the Burton Cummings Theatre, with tickets starting at $40.

What started in 2002 has grown into one of the city’s signature events, drawing top comedians from across Canada and giving local audiences plenty to laugh about.

If you’ve got friends or family who love comedy shows, be sure to click the link below and share this with them!

Click Here: To see the full Winnipeg Comedy Festival lineup and grab your tickets.

Drew Wolitarsky is officially closing out his CFL career in blue and gold.

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have signed Wolitarsky to a one day contract so he can retire as a member of the team.

Wolitarsky spent seven of his eight CFL seasons in Winnipeg, playing 96 regular season games and recording 227 receptions, 2,954 yards, and 18 touchdowns.

He was also part of the Bombers’ Grey Cup championship teams in 2019 and 2021.

He wrapped up his career last season with the Hamilton Tiger Cats, but chose to officially step away as a Blue Bomber.

For many fans, he’ll always be remembered for those big catches and big moments during some of the team’s strongest years.

Click Here: To read the Blue Bombers’ announcement on Wolitarsky’s retirement.

If you bank with Access Credit Union, or know someone who does, here’s a heads up.

Access announced that it will consolidate six branches into new or existing locations as part of a plan to streamline its operations.

At the same time, the credit union confirmed it will open a new branch at Kenaston Crossing in Winnipeg in summer 2026.

Access says members will receive letters with details and support for the transition.

If you know someone who banks with Access, be sure to click the link below and pass it along so they’re aware of the upcoming changes.

Click Here: To read more about the branch changes and new Winnipeg location.

Manitoba has taken another step to support new and expecting families.

The province has expanded its universal newborn screening program to include congenital CMV, a common infection that can lead to hearing loss and developmental delays if not caught early.

Many babies with CMV show no symptoms at birth, which is why universal screening is so important. Catching it early can help reduce the risk of long term complications and give families answers sooner.

It’s a small change in process, but one that can have a lasting impact on families.

Click Here: To learn more about newborn screening and congenital CMV in Manitoba.

Events marked with ($) require a ticket in advance. Please search them up before going.

Events marked with ($) require prior ticket purchase. Other events may require the purchase of food.

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