Happy Friday, Winnipeggers!

Another week of 2025 is behind us, and we hope you’re finding your groove and keeping those New Year’s resolutions alive. January is the perfect time to start fresh and set the tone for an amazing year ahead.

Before diving into weekend plans, here’s a quick reminder: don’t forget to apply for your new health cards! The sooner you apply, the sooner you’ll have that shiny, durable card ready to go.

Whether you’re bundling up for some winter fun, curling up with a good book, or exploring a cozy new café, we’ve got plenty of ideas in today’s edition to help you make the most of the weekend.

Stay warm, take care, and be sure to check out the poll at the end as your replies will be featured in Monday’s edition, and your input means the world to us. Enjoy the read, Winnipeg!

In today’s edition:

• Manitoba Opens Applications for New Plastic Health Cards

• RRC Polytech’s $24M Dollar Grant

• $2M Arts Fund to Bring Downtown to Life

• Blue Bombers 2025 Schedule!

• 30+ Weekend Events & Live Music

— Jas Singh

News

Manitoba Opens Applications for New Plastic Health Cards

Remember when we mentioned Manitoba’s big health card update a few weeks ago? Well, it’s finally here! If you’ve ever had your paper health card rip, fade, or barely make it through your wallet, this is the fix you’ve been waiting for.

The province is switching to modern, plastic health cards that are sturdy and built to last. No more worrying about crumpled edges or cards falling apart when you need them most.

Here’s what’s changing:

• Durable plastic cards that can handle the wear and tear of everyday life.

• Individual cards for kids, so everyone gets their own.

• Language options: Choose English or French to match your preference.

• And coming soon, a digital version to make things even more convenient.

Your old paper card still works while you wait for your new one, but why not get ahead of the game? This update is all about making life easier for Manitobans.

Apply now and make the switch today!

Snow Clearing Pilot Scrapped After Public Feedback

The City of Winnipeg was considering a big change to snow clearing. A pilot program was proposed to raise the plowing threshold for residential streets from 10 cm to 15 cm next winter. But driving through snow-covered streets? That’s a hazard our city knows all too well.

Winnipeggers spoke up, loud and clear. Concerns about safety and accessibility came flooding in, and the city listened. It’s amazing to see our community come together to make sure our voices are heard and our streets stay safe.

Every winter, Winnipeg clears 1.7 million cubic metres of snow. From streets to sidewalks and back lanes, it’s all about keeping the city moving. Scrapping this pilot shows that listening to the people matters and that safety always comes first. This feels like a win for the whole community, doesn’t it? When we speak up, real change can happen.

A message from Red River Exhibition Park!

Where Winnipeg’s Best Events Come to Life

Some of the most unforgettable events in Winnipeg this past year, like the Scattered Seeds Fall Market, the Third + Bird Christmas Market, and The Red River Ex, all shared one thing in common: the Red River Exhibition Park.

This isn’t just a venue; it’s where creativity and convenience come together. The thoughtful amenities and wheelchair accessibility make it a welcoming option for everyone.

Here’s what makes it stand out:

• Flexible spaces: 40,000 square feet indoors for everything from 250-person dinners to 150-booth trade shows, plus outdoor spaces like Central Park and The Loop for festivals and markets.

• Guest-friendly amenities: Free parking, on-site catering, wheelchair accessibility, and even select show rides to take events up a notch.

• Support that makes planning easy: Banquet furniture, sound systems, internet, and event-planning expertise are all available to make your vision come to life.

Whether it’s a wedding, market, or holiday party, Exhibition Park has the space, the setup, and the vibe to make it unforgettable.

Let’s turn your next event into something people will be talking about for years. Start planning today! 🏞️✨

P.S. Looking to advertise in the Winnipeg Digest? Reply to this email or reach out at [email protected]!

Community News

RRC Polytech’s $24M Dollar Grant

Too often, groundbreaking research and innovative ideas get stuck on paper, never making it out into the real world. That’s where RRC Polytech is stepping in. With $24.1 million in federal funding, they’re leading a national network to bring research ideas to life and solve real-world problems.

This initiative connects 38 post-secondary institutions and partners across Canada, creating an entrepreneurial network that drives innovation.

Here’s how it’s making a difference:

• Bridging the gap between research and reality by connecting researchers with industries to turn ideas into solutions that benefit communities.

• Empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs with tailored mentorship and resources that honor cultural values and the principles of OCAP® (Ownership, Control, Access, Possession).

• All while leading a national effort from right here in Winnipeg, putting our city at the heart of innovation and collaboration.

Grants Open to Help Build a Stronger Winnipeg

You know what really brings our community together? Things like the downtown spring cleanup or a local playground renovation. These projects don’t just improve our neighborhoods—they connect people and create a sense of pride.

But getting these ideas off the ground isn’t easy, especially when funding is tight. That’s where two new grant programs come in to help:

• Green Team Grants focus on youth employment while tackling community projects during the summer.

• From the Ground Up Grants fund initiatives in recreation, housing, safety, and economic development.

For non-profits, these grants cover up to 80 percent of project costs, and municipalities can get up to 50 percent. Applications close on February 18, so this is your chance to turn those ideas into something real.

Let’s keep building a better Winnipeg together.

$2M Arts Fund to Bring Downtown to Life

With the city trying to revitalize downtown through affordable housing projects, exciting events, and more, keeping the arts scene vibrant is key. The new two-million-dollar Downtown Arts Capital Fund is doing just that by supporting major cultural projects.

Here’s where the funding is going:

• Royal Winnipeg Ballet: Over $1 million to modernize their campus and expand programming.

• Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra: More than $1 million to revamp the Pantages Playhouse Theatre.

• Manitoba Opera: $25,000 for ticketing and tech upgrades.

• Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre: $300,000 for safety and accessibility improvements.

This funding ensures our city’s cultural gems can thrive, connect with the community, and bring more life to downtown. Investing in the arts also creates jobs, attracts visitors, and makes our city an even better place to live.

City Sports!

Blue Bombers’ 2025 Schedule Is Here!

After the tough loss in the Grey Cup last season, it’s time for the Blue Bombers to rebuild and refocus. As reported by CTV News, The 2025 season kicks off at home on June 12 against the BC Lions, and fans are ready to see what this team can do.

Key matchups to mark on your calendar include:

• A rematch with the Argos in Toronto on July 26, followed by their visit to Winnipeg on Aug. 1.

• The Labour Day Classic on Aug. 31 and the Banjo Bowl on Sept. 6.

• The season finale at home against the Alouettes on Oct. 25.

And here’s the best part: Winnipeg will host the 112th Grey Cup on Nov. 16. Let’s hope our team brings it home this season. Mark your calendars, and get ready to cheer them on!

Jets Shine in Dominant Win Over Canucks

The Jets had a big night, cruising past the Canucks 6-1 at the Canada Life Centre. Kyle Connor led the charge with a first-period hat trick, his sixth career, and even added an assist for a four-point game.

We’re now the first team in the NHL to hit 30 wins this season, and the momentum is still building. As I’m writing this, we’re gearing up to face the Seattle Kraken tonight.

Let’s cheer the boys on and hope they keep the streak alive!

Exciting Events: Jan 17th - 19th

This section only includes events until the next edition on Monday, so here’s what’s happening Friday till Sunday!

Sports🏀

• Manitoba Moose vs Toronto Marlies | Jan 17 & 19 (Tickets)

  • Location: Canada Life Centre

• Winnipeg Jets vs Calgary Flames | 6PM, Jan 18 (Tickets)

  • Location: Canada Life Centre

• Winnipeg Run Club | 8AM, Jan 18 (FREE)

  • Location: The Forks (by the main elevator)

Family Fun🎆

• 2025 Riverview Community Centre Winterfest | Jan 17-19 (More Info)

  • Location: 90 Ashland Ave

  • Jan 17th: Movie night, Small Foot

  • Jan 18th: Family Skate Night

  • Jan 19th: Frost Bite River Run + Family Ski Day

• St. Norbert Farmer’s Market | 10AM - 2PM, Jan 18 (More Info)

  • Location: 3514 Pembina Hwy, Winnipeg, MB

• Winter Carnival Fort Garry Community Centre | 2-10PM, Jan 18 (More Info)

  • Location: 880 Oakenwald Ave

  • Description: Snowshoeing, Petting Zoo, Food Trucks and more!

• Guided Snowshoe Experience | 10-11:30AM, Jan 18 (Tickets)

  • Location: Assiniboine Park (Riley Family Duck Pond Shelter)

  • Description: Depending on the session you choose, come ready to learn more about winter creatures, winter tracking, winter trees or Park history.

• Learn to Winter | 1-4PM, Jan 19 (More Info)

  • Location: The Forks

  • Description: Skate and Snowshoe Lessons, DJs by The Canopy, Winter Wellness Classes, Storytelling and Drumming in the Teepee and more!

• 2025 Snowshoe Sundays | 10AM - 3PM, Jan 19 (More Info)

  • Location: Living Prarie Museum, 2795 Ness Ave

  • Description: Drop in on Sundays in January and February 10 AM - 3 PM for free 1-hour snowshoe rentals!

Comedy❗

• Malik Elassal Comedy | Jan 17-18 (Tickets)

  • Location: Rumor's Restaurant and Comedy Club

  • Description: Malik Elassal is a Lebanese-Canadian actor, writer, and comedian from northeast Calgary. He was named one of the New Faces at Just For Laughs in Montreal in 2022.

• Brian Holtzman Comedy | Jan 17-18 (Tickets)

  • Location: The Basement Comedy Lounge

  • Description: Brian Holtzman is a certified L.A. and Austin comedy legend going on 35+ years in the business.

• Nick Beaton Comedy | Jan 17-18 (Tickets)

  • Location: Yuk Yuk’s Winnipeg

  • Description: His mix of political and social commentary with hard-hitting jokes has made him a favourite wherever he has performed.

Special Events 🥂

• Waitress - Musical | Jan 17 - Feb 1 (Tickets)

  • Location: Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre

  • Description: Jenna is a small-town waitress who puts her passion into incredible pie-baking. When she finds herself pregnant in a dead-end relationship, she realizes she must address her life, and find her true self in a world.

• Fleurs de Villes | Jan 17-26 (Tickets)

  • Location: The Leaf

  • Description: Fleurs de Villes ARTISTE is a fresh floral event showcasing Manitoba’s vibrant arts scene and outstanding floral talent. 15 fresh floral mannequins designed by local florists in collaboration with Manitoba arts and cultural organizations.

• Life-Cycle | Jan 17-19 (Tickets)

  • Location: Manitoba Theatre for Young People

  • Description: Life-Cycle combines acrobatics, puppetry, and digital effects to create a world where a simple bicycle can become pure magic.

• WSO presents Star Wars: Return of the Jedi in Concert | Jan 17-18 (Tickets)

  • Location: Centennial Concert Hall

  • Description: Star Wars: Return of the Jedi in Concert

• Shadow Machina | 7PM, Jan 18 (Tickets)

  • Location: Gas Station Arts Centre

  • Description: A revolutionary fusion of shadow puppetry, acrobatics, and theatre.

• Elvis 90th Birthday Bash | 7:30PM, Jan 18 (Tickets)

  • Location: Burton Cummings Theatre

  • Description: Join award winning Elvis Tribute artists, Adam T. Elvis and Corny Rempel for a 90th Birthday concert.

• Kiyanaan Indigenous Theatre Festival | Jan 18-19 (Tickets)

  • Location: Prairie Theatre Exchange

  • Description: Dedicated to bringing Indigenous theatre to audiences, offering production support to achieve artistic goals of the work of First Nations, Métis, Inuit artists.

• Juvel - Jazz at the Fort Garry | 6:15PM, Jan 19 (Tickets)

  • Location: Fort Garry Hotel

  • Description: Musical project of four dynamic musicians who strive to keep your toes tapping with the energetic sound of Romani jazz and early swing.

Music 🎵

Events marked with ($) require prior ticket purchase. Other events may require the purchase of food or tickets available at the door.

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

P.S. Want to get your business in front of thousands of local Winnipeggers? Email us at [email protected].