Happy Monday, Winnipeggers!

We had an absolute blast on Friday hand-delivering all the Digest cards! A big thank you to everyone who took the time to chat with us—it’s moments like these that remind us why we love doing this. We’ve got some big things in the works (hint: more fun products!), and we’ll be doing a poll on them soon. If you have any recommendations, let us know by replying to the poll at the end of today’s edition!

In today’s edition, we’re here to help you get ready for Christmas with a handy guide on what’s open and closed for the big day. Unfortunately, it’s a quieter week for events as Christmas approaches—but don’t worry, we’re still sharing everything worth knowing!

And once again, thank you for your heartwarming comments from last week’s polls—they truly mean the world to us. Here are a few from last week that brightened our day!

In today's edition:

• What's Open/Closed on Christmas in Winnipeg?

• Holiday Skates at The Forks

• Restaurant of the Week

• New Tax Credits for Manitobans

• Multiple events this week & more

— Jas Singh

News

What's Open/Closed on Christmas in Winnipeg?

Christmas is just around the corner! Our next edition on Wednesday will be on Christmas, and we want to help you plan before the big day so you can make the most of it.

First things first—whether you celebrate Christmas or not, this is the perfect time to slow down, spend time with loved ones, and reflect on the past year. And maybe even start prepping for the new one!

Here’s what to know about what’s open and closed in Winnipeg:

• Malls and Stores: Most malls and all Liquor Marts will be closed on Christmas Day. Liquor Marts reopen from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Boxing Day.

• City Services: No garbage or recycling collection on Christmas Day. If that’s your usual day, put your bins out one day later. Brady Road Landfill and 4R Depots will also be closed.

• Transit: Winnipeg Transit will follow a Sunday schedule on both Christmas and Boxing Day.

• Museums and Attractions: The Human Rights Museum, Manitoba Museum, Winnipeg Art Gallery, and Assiniboine Park Zoo will be closed on Christmas.

• For Students: If you’re a university or college student, here’s more info on their holiday hours:

  • University of Manitoba (LINK)

  • University of Winnipeg (LINK)

  • Red River College (LINK)

Now take this time to recharge, make memories, and enjoy the season—however you choose to spend it.

And if you’re still looking to find some last-minute gifts, you can check out our Gifting Experiences Guide from our last edition! Happy holidays!

Holiday Skates at The Forks

Staying on the holiday theme, the skating season is here—a little later than usual this year, but worth the wait! With on-land trails and rinks officially open, it’s the perfect way to embrace winter and make some holiday memories.

Here’s what you can look forward to:

• On-land skating trails and rinks: Skate under the canopy by The Forks Market, near the CN Stage, or along over 1 km of skating trail.

• River Trail update: The Nestaweya River Trail isn’t open yet, but crews are hard at work on the Port Rink. Until the river’s safe, stick to the on-land skating areas.

• Skate change area: Warm up and change skates inside The Forks Market atrium. Don’t have skates? Rent hockey or figure skates in all sizes from Iceland Skate Rentals!

It’s a fun and festive way to enjoy the season and make the most of Winnipeg’s winter magic. Happy skating! ⛸️❄️

A message from… The Winnipeg Digest!

You’re here reading this—and so are over 17,500 other Winnipeggers!

Now, imagine your business, workplace, or even a friend’s or family member’s business being featured right here. Pretty exciting, isn’t it?

We’re very intentional about who we partner with because every business we feature feels like an extension of us. You trust us to share what matters most, and we take that trust seriously.

Here’s why working with the Winnipeg Digest makes sense:

• We do the heavy lifting: From creating eye-catching content to tracking how it performs, we handle it all so you can focus on what you do best.

• Customized for you: Whether you’re running a special promotion or want consistent exposure, we’ll create a plan that fits your needs.

• Loved by locals: Our audience (like you!) is full of families and folks who care about supporting reliable local businesses.

At the end of the day, we’re just a small local media company working to keep this free for everyone while building up our community. Let’s make something special together! Shoot us an email at thewinnipegdigest@gmail.com—we’d love to hear from you. 😊

Restaurant of the Week: Borgo Antico

Hidden away in the Exchange District, Borgo Antico is one of those places you’d probably walk past without realizing what you’re missing. It’s cozy, casual, and somehow still a bit fancy—the perfect spot for a quiet evening with amazing Italian food and drinks.

Here’s the catch: they don’t really do walk-ins. This place is so loved that tables are booked a week or two in advance. So, if you’re thinking about a date night or just want some authentic Italian flavors, you’ll want to plan ahead.

• Address: 173 McDermot Ave

• Pro tip: Book early—this spot fills up fast!

From fresh pasta to rich, hearty mains, Borgo Antico is a reminder that sometimes, the best things take a little planning. Treat yourself—you won’t regret it! 🍷🍝

City Updates

New Tax Credits for Manitobans

With property taxes set to rise by nearly 6% next year, saving money feels more important than ever for us locals. Thankfully, the Manitoba government’s new tax credits for homeowners and renters are here to help ease the load.

For Homeowners:

• $1,500 Homeowners Affordability Tax Credit

  • Benefits over 80% of Manitobans.

  • The credit will be directly applied to the property tax statement.

• Farm Property School Tax Rebate Maintained

  • Continues at 50% to support producers and their families.

For Renters:

• Increased Renter’s Tax Credit

  • Maximum credit increased to $575 starting in 2025.

  • Part of a four-year plan to fully restore the credit to $700.

These changes also aim to help young Manitobans buy their first homes and make mortgage payments a bit more manageable. With rising costs everywhere, it’s nice to see some relief on the way.

Let’s hope this is just the start and it makes a real difference for families across the province in the new year!

24-Hour Shifts for Winnipeg Firefighters?

Firefighters work tirelessly to keep us safe, often putting themselves on the line. As reported by CTV News, Winnipeg is now exploring the idea of 24-hour shifts for our local fire crews.

• The Pros: Longer shifts could mean fewer overall workdays, better recovery time, and potentially less overtime for the city. Other cities, like Calgary, have already made the switch and seen positive results, including better mental health for firefighters.

• The Cons: Fatigue and safety concerns are big questions. Working a full 24 hours is no small task, especially in such a high-stress job.

The city and firefighters’ union will meet in January to discuss the plan, with a report expected later next year. It’s a big decision, but one that could improve work-life balance for those who keep us safe every day.

We’ll, of course, keep you updated as new details come in!

Community Digest

The Memory Tree – Last Chance Tomorrow!

Since 1987, the Memory Tree at St. Vital Centre has been a special way to honor loved ones during the holidays. It’s a place for anyone grieving to find comfort and connection, and tomorrow is the final day to take part this year.

Here’s what you can do:

• Share memories with a volunteer and hang a card on the tree to honor someone special.

• Can’t make it in person? Send a message online or by mail, and they’ll hang the card for you.

Every card will be included in the Light the Memories Ceremony next year, a heartfelt tribute to those we’ve lost.

And if you’re able, consider making a donation. All proceeds go toward programs that support those who are grieving in Manitoba. It’s a meaningful way to give back while honoring the people we miss most.

Jets Close Out the Holidays with a Win

Saturday night was one to remember for Jets fans. The team didn’t just beat the Minnesota Wild—they crushed them, 5-0. It’s always fun to see your team win, but doing it in front of a packed arena just before Christmas? That’s something special.

This win makes it eight straight against the Wild, and it keeps the Jets on top of the Central Division. The energy in the building was electric—fans were on their feet, giving a standing ovation as the final minutes ticked down.

Now, the Jets head to Toronto for one last game before the holiday break. Fingers crossed they can keep the momentum going and head into the new year on a high note. What a way to wrap up the season so far! Go Jets go!

Events 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!

• Boxing Day at the Children's Museum | 11AM - 3PM, Dec 26 (More Info)

  • Location: Manitoba Children's Museum

  • Description: Gather ‘round, young architects, as they provide the supplies like boxes of all shapes and sizes, the very best tools, and vibrant colours — to craft the fortress of your dreams.

• Mundane Problems - Holiday Edition | 8PM, Dec 27 (Tickets)

  • Location: The Basement Speakeasy Lounge (3740 Portage Ave)

  • Description: Kick back as musicians serenade you inspired by the suggestions you provide them. It's a show about having your chance to complain about the simple things in life.

• WMC's Centre Stage Series | 7:30-9:30PM, Dec 27 (Tickets)

  • Location: St. Andrew's River Heights United Church (255 Oak St)

  • Description: Six of Manitoba’s emerging classical musicians. This concert will feature standout artists Angela Suet Kee Ng (piano), River Sawchyn (violin), Diana Rockwell (soprano), Hannah Orr (soprano), Yanzhi Zhang (piano), and Amanda Robertson (clarinet).

• Damonde Tschritter Comedy | Dec 27-28 & 31 (Tickets)

  • Location: Rumor's Restaurant and Comedy Club

  • Description: His TV comedy specials have aired on CTV, CBC, HBO, Comedy Network and Comedy Central! “Comedies new Superhero, and perhaps this countries finest comedic storyteller.” - The Globe & Mail

• TOQUE - Canada's Classic Rock Supergroup | 8PM, Dec 28 (Tickets)

  • Location: Club Regent Event Centre

  • Description: Four All-Star band members from the Canadian Prairie’s perform the Canadian Classic Rock Songbook from the 70s, 80s and 90s.

• Winnipeg Jets vs Ottawa Senators | 6PM, Dec 28 (Tickets)

  • Location: Canada Life Centre

• Dallas Smith | 8PM, Dec 29 (Tickets)

  • Location: Club Regent Event Centre

  • Description: From front man of platinum-selling rock band Default to 3x consecutive CCMA Entertainer of the Year.

Exciting Events: Dec 23rd & 24th!

Family Fun🎆

• Watt a Season | Dec 23 - Jan 11 (More Info)

  • Location: Manitoba Electrical Museum (680 Harrow St)

• Zoo Lights | Dec 23 - Jan 5 (Tickets)

  • Location: Assiniboine Park Zoo

  • Description: Wander through a winter wonderland and enjoy stunning light displays, tasty treats, and endless joy and cheer.

• Canad Inns Winter Wonderland | Dec 23 - Jan 4 (Tickets)

  • Location: Red River Exhibition- Exhibition Place

  • Description: Manitoba’s largest drive-thru light show and provides a brilliant presentation of over one million lights.

• Let It Glow 2024 | 5-10PM, Dec 23-31 (More Info)

  • Location: Grant Memorial Church (877 Wilkes Ave)

  • Description: Drive through Grant Memorial Church, where you'll be treated to a dazzling show of lights, videos, and music that tells the story of Christmas.

• The Royal Winnipeg Ballet presents Nutcracker | Dec 23-28 (Tickets)

  • Location: Centennial Concert Hall

  • Description: Nutcracker is the biggest spectacle of the season, with over 100 dancers on stage and dozens of musicians and chorists in the pit.

• Thermea - A Holiday Family Discovery Day | Dec 24 (Tickets)

  • Location: Thermea (775 Crescent Drive)

  • Description: Each child aged 8 to 10 must be accompanied by at least one adult. One adult may accompany two children, ages 11 to 15.

Special 🥂

• Birdsong & Boughs: A Holiday Migration | 2-3:30PM, Dec 23 - Jan 12 (More Info)

  • Location: Assiniboine Park - The Leaf

  • Description: This display blends the vibrant beauty of holiday boughs with the soothing sounds of birds, inviting visitors to experience the season through nature’s migrations.

• STEM-inspired holiday programming | Dec 23 - Jan 5 (More Info)

  • Location: Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada

  • Description: Two STEM-inspired activities to engage young minds. The first is an airplane obstacle course that will wind its way throughout the museum. Kids will be challenged to navigate through the course and safely land their plane at the end. Complete the obstacle course and enter to win prizes!

• A Year With Frog and Toad | Multiple times, Dec 23 (Tickets)

  • Location: Manitoba Theatre for Young People

  • Description: Follows a couple of delightful amphibians as they sing their way through the seasons, sharing a story of enduring friendship.

• Free Drop-In Group Music Lessons | 4-6PM, Dec 24 (Free)

  • Location: West End Culture Centre, 586 Ellice Ave

  • Description: Great opportunity for ages 8-18 to explore their musical talents.

CHEERS!

Thanks for reading The Winnipeg Digest! I’ll see you again on Wednesday!

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