Happy Monday, Winnipeggers!

We hope you had a great weekend and managed to stay cool, because that heat was no joke. Some parts of the city hit nearly 40°C, and if you were anywhere near a Slurpee machine or a shady patio, you weren’t alone.

But now it’s Monday, and we’ve got a new week ahead.

Whether you’re planning your next market visit, looking for something to do with the kids, or just want a heads-up on what’s happening in the city, you’re in the right place. We’ve rounded up everything that went down this weekend and what’s coming up next.

So grab some iced coffee, get comfy, and let’s get you caught up on everything going on in Winnipeg this week.

In today’s edition:

• Manitoba Students Can Now Get Up to $4,200 in Grants

• Harness Horse Racing Officially Starts This Weekend

• Restaurant of the Week

• Manitoba Wants Your Input on Its Net-Zero Plan for 2050

• Louise Bridge Closure Extended Until September

• Multiple events this week & more

— Jas Singh

News

⁠Manitoba Students Can Now Get Up to $4,200 in Grants

Sometimes, all it takes is a little help to open a big door.

Whether it’s a student dreaming of being the first in their family to go to university, or a single parent wanting to go back to school to build something better. Money shouldn’t be the reason they can’t.

That’s why this change from the Manitoba government really matters:

• Starting in the 2025–26 school year, students can apply for grants only—no loan application needed

• That means you can now qualify for up to $4,200 in federal grants without taking on student debt

• Extra support is available for students with disabilities or dependants

• It’s all through Manitoba Student Aid, and the new online application is now open

• Grant funding is expected to start rolling out next month

So, if you’ve got a kid, sibling, or even a friend thinking about college or university soon, make sure they know about this. It could be the little nudge they need to actually go for it.

Click here: To check if you (or someone you care about) can apply for these grant-only options!

Together with Red River Ex!

Harness Horse Racing Officially Starts This Weekend

If you’re looking for something fun and totally different to check out this weekend, here’s your sign: live harness racing officially kicks off Saturday, August 2, at The LOOP at Red River Exhibition Park. And it’s completely free to attend!

Even if you’ve never seen a race before, it’s easy to get into with heart-pounding action, exhilarating finishes, and Manitoba’s best standardbred horses flying down the track while the crowd cheers them on.

Here’s what to expect:

• Free admission and parking (yes, really!)

• Live racing starts at 1PM every race day

• Betting, snacks, and open-air vibes all afternoon

Come early, grab a seat, and feel the thrill as the season begins. Whether you're betting big or just soaking in the scene, it's an unforgettable way to spend an afternoon.

Click below for the full schedule and to learn more about the event!

Advertise with us by emailing: [email protected]

Restaurant of the Week: Oval Room Brasserie

Some places just feel like a step outside of Winnipeg, and Oval Room Brasserie is one of them. Tucked inside the historic Fort Garry Hotel, its soaring ceilings, vintage charm, and live jazz makes you feel more like you’re in Paris or New York than downtown Winnipeg.

The vibe is elegant without being stiff, and the menu strikes that perfect balance between classic and fresh.

And now, it’s officially on the map! Oval Room just earned a spot on OpenTable’s list of the Top 50 Hotel Restaurants in Canada, one of only two in the Prairies to do so.

Here’s why it’s worth a visit:

• Beautiful dining room with live music Tuesday through Saturday

• Refined brasserie-style dishes, led by Chef Kyle Lew

• ⁠An award-worthy wine list and cocktail program

• Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night service all week

• And a perfect mix of special occasion and everyday comfort

It’s a proud moment for Winnipeg, and a great excuse to treat yourself to a night out that feels a little bit magical, without ever leaving the city.

📍 222 Broadway, inside The Fort Garry Hotel
🕐 Open daily from early breakfast to late-night dinner

Click Here: To check out their menu or make a reservation!

Community Digest

Manitoba Wants Your Input on Its Net-Zero Plan for 2050

Sometimes the big things, like climate change, can feel too far out of reach. But here’s a rare moment where regular folks like us can actually help steer the future.

The Manitoba government is putting together its official roadmap to net-zero emissions by 2050.

But, instead of doing it behind closed doors, they’re asking for feedback from all of us. Whether you care about the environment, good jobs, or just want to make sure the next generation has clean lakes and safe communities… this is your chance to speak up.

Here’s what’s already on the table:

• Indigenous-owned wind projects and more renewable energy

• Electric vehicle rebates and more charging stations across the province

• Support for businesses and nonprofits taking local climate action

• Protection of places like Lemay Forest and Lake Winnipeg

• Community support for climate resilience and training

The survey is open now and will help guide decisions well into the future. This plan isn’t just about emissions. It’s about how we live, work, and protect the place we call home!

Click here: To fill out the survey and make sure your voice is part of the future!

Dakota’s Waterplay Park Reopens with a Big Upgrades

Some of the best summer memories start with a towel in hand and the sound of kids laughing by the water. That’s why folks in St. Vital are buzzing about the newly upgraded Dakota Waterplay Park: it’s back and better than ever.

After a major refresh, the park now has new accessible spray features, a safer pool surround, and fresh rubberized surfacing that’s easy on little feet. For families looking to beat the heat without leaving the neighbourhood, this is a win.

What’s new:

• $480K in upgrades, funded by the City and Province

• New spray jets, waterfalls, and water features for all ages

• Rubberized surfacing for safer, more inclusive play

You’ll find it open now for the rest of the summer at 1188 Dakota Street, right beside the community centre.

Whether you're a kid or just a kid at heart, the new Dakota splash pad is worth a visit this season. If you’re nearby, bring the sunscreen and make a day of it.

Click here: To read more and plan your visit!

City Updates

Louise Bridge Closure Extended Until September

Some Winnipeggers cross the Louise Bridge every single day, on their way to work, to visit family, or just to get home before dinner. So we know this update might be a tough one for some.

The city’s work on the Louise Bridge is taking longer than expected, and here’s what you need to know:

• The bridge was closed on May 23 for its regular inspection and maintenance

• Repairs were supposed to wrap up by the end of July, but crews found extra structural damage

• The new expected reopening is early September, barring further issues

• Pedestrians and cyclists can still cross, though there may be brief closures

• And drivers are encouraged to use Disraeli or Provencher bridges instead

It’s not ideal, but hopefully the extra work now means fewer issues down the line. In the meantime, maybe leave a few minutes early and bring a little extra patience.

Click here: To check real-time lane closures and updates.

If you’re driving, try using the Waze app to get real-time detours and avoid traffic delays.

Click Here: To try Waze!

Winnipeg Police Stepping Up in Osborne Village to Tackle Rising Violence

Osborne Village has always been one of those neighbourhoods where you bump into someone you know, grab a coffee, and feel part of something.

But lately, things have felt tense. Violent crime has gone up over the past few years, and now the Winnipeg Police are stepping in with a focused effort to help turn things around.

This new operation is about more than just enforcement. It’s about showing up, listening to the community, and making sure people feel safe again, whether they’re out walking the dog or opening shop for the day.

Here’s what to know:

• More officers, both in uniform and plainclothes, will be present in high-risk areas

• Bail checks will increase to ensure conditions are being followed

• ⁠As assaults are up 44% in Osborne this year, which is part of what’s driving the response

• ⁠WPS is working closely with local businesses, residents, and outreach teams

• And the overall goal is long-term safety, built on connection and trust.

This is a neighbourhood full of heart, where shop owners know your name and small interactions still matter. Everyone deserves to feel safe here, and with a little patience and a lot of community, Osborne can feel like that again.

Click Here: To read more about the police strategy and how to stay informed.

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!

• Exchange Summer Fitness – Bootcamp | 12-12:45PM, July 30 (FREE)

  • Location: 201 Portage Plaza

• MAMMA MIA: An Abba Love Story | July 31 - August 3 (Tickets)

  • Location: Canad Inns Destination Centre Fort Garry

  • Description: Get ready for a summer of love, laughter and ABBA hits, in this light-hearted musical comedy that centers around a mother and daughter opening a boutique hotel on a tiny tropical island. The show explores the complications of love, friendship and second chances, as old passions are awakened and new love is born.

• Cinema Under the Stars 2025 - Louise Violet | 9:30PM, July 31 (FREE)

  • Location: Ruins of St. Boniface Cathedral

  • Description: Movies Under the Stars offers screenings of French-language films, accessible to all thanks to the presence of English subtitles. This is a completely free event that takes place every Thursday during the summer in the ruins of St. Boniface Cathedral.

• Downtown Farmers' Market | 10AM-2PM, July 31 (FREE)

  • 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.

• Transcona BIZ Markets | 11AM-4PM, July 31 (FREE)

  • Location: Transcona Centennial Square

  • Description: The markets showcase a rotating variety of locally grown fresh produce, handmade arts and crafts, specialty teas, and much more.

• Winnipeg Sea Bears vs Saskatchewan Rattlers | 7:30PM, August 1 ($)

  • Location: Canada Life Centre

• The Umbrellas of Cherbourg The New Wave Musicals of Jacques Demy | 8PM, August 1 (Tickets)

  • Location: Winnipeg Art Gallery—Qaumajuq

  • Description: Join us for a rooftop film screening of The Umbrellas of Cherbourg (92 min.) by Jacques Demy, presented by the Winnipeg Film Group. One of the most gifted filmmakers to emerge during the French New Wave.

• Movies in the Park: Lion King (1994) & Mufasa | 6:30PM & 8:45PM, August 1 (FREE)

  • Location: Lyric Theatre

  • Description: The Lyric Theatre concession will be serving popcorn, ice cream treats, and other tasty snacks.

• Alison Krauss & Union Station Arcadia 2025 tour | 7:30PM, August 1 (Tickets)

  • Location: Centennial Concert Hall

  • Description: For nearly four decades, Alison Krauss & Union Station have upheld their legacy as one of the most influential and widely celebrated acts in bluegrass and roots music.

• Icelandic Festival of Manitoba 2025 | August 1-4 (FREE)

  • Location: Gimli, Manitoba

  • Description: Celebrate Icelandic culture, heritage, and summer fun at the 136th annual Icelandic Festival of Manitoba – Islendingadagurinn. Held in scenic Gimli, just one hour north of Winnipeg, this iconic event brings together history, entertainment, and community for four unforgettable days.

• Folklorama 2025 | August 3-16 (Tickets)

  • Location: Various venues throughout Winnipeg

  • Description: Travel the world without a passport! Experience world-class entertainment, enjoy delicious authentic cuisine, warm hospitality, and view beautiful cultural displays during Folklorama, the largest and longest-running multicultural festival of its kind in the world.

Exciting Events: July 28th & 29th

Sports🏀

• Winnipeg Goldeyes vs Fargo-Moorhead | 6:30PM, July 28-30 ($)

  • Location: Blue Cross Park

• Winnipeg Valour FC vs Calgary Cavalry | 7PM, July 29 ($)

  • Location: Princess Auto Stadium

• Exchange Summer Fitness – Bootcamp | 12-12:45PM, July 29 (FREE)

  • Location: 201 Portage Plaza

• Live Horse Racing | 7:30PM, July 29-30 (Free/Learn More)

  • Location: Assiniboia Downs

Music 🎵

• TJ Pepper + Stephen Arundell | 11:45AM-2:45PM, July 28 (FREE)

  • Location: Belle's Kitchen + Music Hall

• Downtown Sounds Concert Series: Ingia (Joyce German) | 12PM-1PM, July 29 (FREE)

  • Location: Richardson Centre Plaza

  • Description: Hungry for good music with your lunch? Enjoy FREE live performances every Tuesday from June 17 to August 26, 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., at the 2025 Downtown Sounds Concert Series!

• Nashville Hurricane (Chase Padgett) | 6:30PM, July 29 (Tickets)

  • Location: Park Theatre

  • Description: Chase Padgett of the hit show 6 GUITARS brings an epic tale of finger pickin’ fury. Padgett transforms into 4 characters in this storytelling masterpiece: a manager, a mother, a mentor, and a mythical guitar prodigy known as… the Nashville Hurricane.

• Dantes Paradise/I Love You Dearly/Jupiter Meltdown | 7PM, July 29 (Tickets)

  • Location: Sidestage Winnipeg

• Ryan Bullock/Shauna Bell/Sean Burns/Joshua Davis Richards
  | 11:45AM-2:45PM, July 29 (FREE)

  • Location: Belle's Kitchen + Music Hall

• George Foreman/The Grills | 8:30PM, July 29 (FREE)

  • Location: Blue Note Park

Community Fun🎆

• Summer Line-Up: Tick Puppets | 11AM-3PM, July 28 - August 3 (FREE)

  • Location: Manitoba Children's Museum

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

• Paddle Nights | 6PM-8:30PM, July 29 & 31 (Tickets)

  • Location: FortWhyte Alive

  • Description: Spend an evening paddling before sunset for the perfect summer night. Paddle Nights are a 45-minute session with a canoe or kayak, with help available to get you started. No experience is required.

• Learn to Fish | 6:30PM-8:30PM, July 29 (Tickets)

  • Location: FortWhyte Alive

  • Description: Learn the ins and outs of getting into the great sport of fishing. Then hit the shores to try and catch one of our beautiful species of Northern Pike or Yellow Perch.

• The Market at FortWhyte Farms | July 29 - August 1 (FREE)

  • Location: FortWhyte Farms

  • Description: Our summer market is the place to buy fresh, naturally grown, in-season produce, and delicious baked goods.

• Play at The Forks | Daily (FREE)

  • Location: CN Field and Stage

    • Basketball with Basketball Manitoba: 6PM-8PM, July 28 & 30

    • Drop-in Dance with Dance with Genie: 6PM-8PM, July 29

Special Events 🎨

• Ali Macofsky | July 29 - August 2 ($)

  • Location: Rumor's Restaurant and Comedy Club

  • Description: Comedian, actress, and writer who began her comedy career at the age of 7 when she would join Ryan Seacrest on KIIS FM every weekday morning and prank call listeners as her character “Lil Ally” and has continued to pursue comedy ever since.

• Spirits with Spirits | 7-9PM, July 30 (FREE)

  • Location: The Kings’s Head Pub

  • Description: Get cozy (or creeped out) with an evening of ghost stories and great drinks. It’s the perfect free event for fans of the spooky, the strange, and the spirited.

• Savour the Exchange Food Tour | 6PM-8:30PM, July 30 (Tickets)

  • Location: The Exchange District

  • Description: Home to over 50 unique local restaurants, the Exchange District is an inspired community of culinary creativity. Savour a few of these one-of-a-kind dining experiences on a food tour hosted by the Exchange District BIZ.

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