Happy Monday, Winnipeggers!

Firstly, thank you for opening our newsletters, even during the holidays. It truly means a lot to us, and we hope we’re helping you discover the best ways to make the most of our city.

Today’s edition is all about New Year’s Eve and New Year’s plans—helping you find the perfect ways to celebrate with family and friends. We’ve also included some reminders for things kicking off in the new year.

We know a few items might look familiar, but a little reminder never hurts! As always, your thoughtful comments keep us motivated. Here are a few of our favorites from last week—they truly made us smile!

We’ve left a poll at the end of today’s email. Let us know what you enjoyed, and if there’s anything we can improve, we love to hear your feedback!

In today's edition:

• New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Winnipeg 🎆

• Recycle Your Christmas Tree

• Have Your Say on Winnipeg’s 2025 Budget

• Multiple events this week & more

— Jas Singh

News

New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Winnipeg 🎆

Can you believe it? 2025 is almost here! As the countdown begins, it’s the perfect time to plan a fun night out with family and friends. If you’re looking for fireworks to end the year, we’ve done some digging to bring you this list. (And trust us, it wasn’t easy to find!)

Here’s where you can catch fireworks this year:

• Sage Creek Blvd: Fireworks at 9 PM

• Champlain Community Centre (282 Niverville Ave): Activities from 6–9 PM, with fireworks at 8:30PM.

• East Elmwood Community Centre (490 Keenleyside St): Activities from 6–9 PM, Fireworks at 9:15 PM.

• Oxford Heights Community Club (359 Dowling Ave E): Fireworks at 8 PM

• Wildwood Park Community Centre (271 North Dr): Fireworks at 8:30 PM

While The Forks isn’t hosting fireworks this year, they’ve planned a full day of fun activities for you to enjoy on January 1st, such as skating, live music, and games for all ages. (More Info)

You can enjoy the fireworks on Tuesday night to close out 2024 and then kick off the new year at The Forks on Wednesday. It’s a great way to start 2025 with fun and togetherness.

Bundle up, grab your loved ones, and make the most of these celebrations. Happy New Year, Winnipeg! 🎉

Recycle Your Christmas Tree

As the holiday season wraps up, most people aren’t sure what to do with their Christmas trees. Instead of tossing yours, why not give it a second life with Winnipeg’s Let’s Chip In Depots?

From December 27 to January 31, you can drop off your real Christmas tree at one of the ten Let’s Chip In locations across the city, including all three 4R Winnipeg Depots. These depots turn your tree into wood mulch, which you can even take home to use in your garden—free of charge!

Here’s how to prepare your tree:

• Remove all decorations, tinsel, and the tree stand.

• Use a bag to transport the tree if needed, but take it home with you after dropping off the tree.

Once processed, the mulch will be ready for pickup from the temporary depots in early January. Supplies are limited, so don’t forget to bring your own container if you’d like to take some home. (Note: mulch isn’t available at 4R Winnipeg Depots.)

For over 30 years, Winnipeggers have helped recycle over 425,000 trees through this program. It’s a simple way to reduce waste and give back to the earth.

So, as you pack away the memories of this holiday season, take a moment to recycle your tree and start the new year with a little extra care for the planet. 🌱

A message from Red River Exhibition Park!

Last Chance to Visit Winnipeg’s Winter Wonderland!

With everyone still on holiday break, it’s the perfect time to enjoy some festive fun before the season ends. This is the last week to experience the Canad Inns Winter Wonderland, a magical Winnipeg tradition you don’t want to miss!

This drive-thru light show is the longest in Manitoba, with over 1 million sparkling lights and 30+ dazzling new displays along a cozy 2.5 km route.

Here’s what you can still enjoy:

• Weekend horse-drawn hayrides for a cozy, festive touch.

• Tasty treats like mini donuts and poutine to snack on while you take in the lights.

• And photo-worthy stops to make those memories last forever.

The Winter Wonderland runs until January 4, so grab your tickets and make plans for one last magical outing with your family before it’s gone!

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

Restaurant of the Week: Aroma Bistro

IIf you’re looking for comfort food with a unique twist, Aroma Bistro is where you need to be. Their menu is packed with mouthwatering options like Kimchi Beef Bowls that are rich and satisfying, and Chili Oil Wontons that bring just the right amount of spice.

They’ve recently opened a second location at The Forks, adding to their original spot at 741 St Mary’s Rd, Unit 7. Aroma Bistro combines Asian flavors with Western cooking styles to create dishes you won’t find anywhere else.

The food is incredible, the service is friendly, and best of all, it’s affordable. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or planning a meal out with friends, this place is worth a visit.

Bring your appetite, grab some friends, and enjoy an unforgettable (and budget-friendly) meal. Aroma Bistro is a must-try!

City Updates

Reminder: Important TIPP Changes Starting January 2025

I know we mentioned this a few editions ago, but as we head into the new year, we just wanted to remind you about some important changes to the City’s TIPP program starting January 1, 2025.

Here’s what you need to know:

• The Manitoba School Tax Rebate is being replaced by the Homeowners Affordability Tax Credit, offering up to $1,500 on property tax bills.

• TIPP payments will adjust to reflect this change, spread across 12 months. Most property owners will see about a 50% increase in their January payment compared to December 2024.

Here’s a quick comparison of how TIPP is calculated for the 2024 vs 2025 tax year:

If you’re unsure about your new payment amount, you can call 311 with your roll number and last payment info to confirm!

Have Your Say on Winnipeg’s 2025 Budget

As most of you know, the City has released its 2025 preliminary budget with a big focus on public safety, road infrastructure, and rebalancing the books. It also includes a nearly 6% property tax increase—and while nothing is set in stone, now’s the time to speak up!

The City is asking for our feedback until January 5, and there are a few ways to make your voice heard:

• Take their survey and share your thoughts directly.

• Appear as a delegation at a committee meeting to speak in person.

• Or submit written feedback for the public record.

As a community, this is our chance to shape the future of our city. Let’s come together, share our ideas, and make sure Winnipeg’s budget reflects what matters most to all of us. Let’s make our voices count!

Community Digest

Reminder: Ride Free with Winnipeg Transit on New Year’s Eve

I know we probably sound like a broken record, but with everyone making plans for a night out or family gathering this New Year’s Eve, please be responsible. Impaired driving is dangerous and completely avoidable.

The City of Winnipeg and Manitoba Public Insurance are making it easy to stay safe by offering the Free Ride Program. All Regular and Transit Plus service is free from 7 p.m. until the end of service on December 31.

The last buses leave downtown around 1:30 a.m., so plan ahead using the Winnipeg Transit app or Navigo. And, if the bus isn’t your thing, call a cab or line up a designated driver.

But, let’s all do our part to make the roads safer and start 2025 on the right foot. Enjoy the night—and get home safe!

Jets Push for a Strong Finish to 2024

The Jets are on fire, winning their last three games, including a big comeback victory against the Ottawa Senators on Saturday! Scoring four straight goals to turn the game around.

As you’re reading this, the team is likely gearing up to face the Nashville Predators tonight at 6:30 PM for their final home game of the year. If you haven’t made plans yet, why not grab some tickets and cheer them on at Canada Life Centre?

Let’s hope the Jets can keep the momentum going and finish 2024 on a high note with wins in their last two games! It’s the perfect way to end the year strong—on and off the ice! 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!

• New Year's Day at The Forks | 10AM - 4PM, Jan 1 (More Info)

  • Location: The Forks

  • Description: Filled with brunch, cultural celebrations, performances, yoga, board games, crafts, and winter activities.

• Winnipeg Jets vs Anaheim Ducks | 7PM, Jan 2 (Tickets)

  • Location: Canada Life Centre

• First Friday in The Exchange | 5-9PM, Jan 3

  • Location: Across the Exchange District

  • Description: On the 1st Friday of each month, Galleries, Artist-Run Centres, Studios, Shops + Museums stay open late for free!

• Jim Jefferies & Jimmy Carr Comedy | 7:30PM, Jan 3 (Tickets)

  • Location: Canada Life Centre

  • Description: The Charm Offensive Tour! Two headliners, one ticket & lots of laughs!

• Zoo Lights, After Dark 18+ Night | 7-11PM, Jan 3 (Tickets)

  • Location: Assiniboine Park

  • Description: Enjoy live music inside the Marquee tent, drink specials throughout the evening, and get your photos with winter characters throughout the Zoo. It's everything you enjoy about Zoo Lights and more - just without the kids!

• Harlem Globetrotters | 3PM, Jan 5 (Tickets)

  • Location: Canada Life Centre

  • Description: You’ll see all the amazing basketball spins, slams, and dunks that you’ve come to expect at every Globetrotters game, PLUS new trials as players face-off to see who can pull off astonishing trick shots and more!

Exciting Events: Dec 30th & 31st!

Music 🎵

• OP-ED/Sweet Alibi | 7PM, Dec 30 (Tickets)

  • Location: Sidestage Winnipeg

  • Genre: Folk

• Burton Cummings & His Band | Dec 30 & 31 (Tickets)

  • Location: Club Regent Event Centre

  • Description: His voice has been rated among the finest in rock music. Burton continues at the top of his game as performer, singer, songwriter, and recording artist.

• Dr. Rocktopus | 10PM, Dec 31

  • Location: King's Head Pub

Sports🏀

• Winnipeg Jets vs. Nashville Predators | 6:30PM, Dec 30 (Tickets)

  • Location: Canada Life Centre

• Manitoba Moose vs Texas Stars | 4PM, Dec 31 (Tickets)

  • Location: Canada Life Centre

Family Fun🎆

• Watt a Season | Dec 30 - Jan 11 (More Info)

  • Location: Manitoba Electrical Museum (680 Harrow St)

• Zoo Lights | Dec 30 - 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 30 - 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 30-31 (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.

Special 🥂

• STEM-inspired holiday programming | Dec 30 - 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!

• Jeff McEnery Comedy | Multiple times, Dec 31 (Tickets)

  • Location: Rumor's Restaurant and Comedy Club

• Damonde Tschritter Comedy | Multiple times, Dec 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

• Roaring in the 20's with...Murder! | 7PM, Dec 31 (Tickets)

  • Location: Fairmont Hotel

  • Description: Dinner & Murder Mystery

• New Year's Eve Gala | 6PM - 1AM, Dec 31 (Tickets)

  • Location: Assiniboia Downs

• Hargrave NYE 2025 | 9PM - 2AM, Dec 31 (Tickets)

  • Location: Hargrave Street Market

  • Description: Hargrave Street Market will be transforming its venue into a winter wonderland themed venue. Multiple DJs, 10$ pizzas all night, incredible drink specials, ball drop at midnight and more!

CHEERS!

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

P.S. Want to sponsor our newsletter? Email us at [email protected].