Midweek check-in, Winnipeg!

This week comes with a sense of relief as wildfire evacuees are finally heading back home after weeks of waiting, and our city just added five new supportive housing sites to help more neighbours get the care and stability they need. Two big wins for the community!

And for all the Winnipeg homeowners, keep an eye out as we’ve got a special offer lined up in today’s edition that you won’t want to miss.

As always, we’re so grateful for this community and thankful you keep showing up for every edition.

In today’s edition:

• Air Canada Reaches Deal After Union Defied Back-to-Work Order

• Folklorama Wraps Up with 361,000 Visitors

• Snow Lake Residents Set to Return Home After Wildfire Evacuations

• Winnipeg Adds Five New Supportive Housing Sites

• Multiple events this week & more

— Jas Singh

News

Air Canada Reaches Deal After Union Defied Back-to-Work Order

If you’ve been following the flight delays these past few days, you know how tense things got. What stood out most was how the flight attendants refused to go back to work until a deal was made, even after being told they had to. That push is what led to the agreement being reached early Tuesday.

Here’s what happened:

• The labour board ordered attendants to return to work on Sunday, but the union held off to keep bargaining alive.

• Union leaders even said they were willing to face jail time or fines if it meant securing a fair contract.

• After a long night of talks, both sides reached a deal that ends unpaid work on the ground.

• Air Canada says flights will slowly return starting Tuesday evening, with normal service taking up to 10 days.

The airline estimates about 500,000 passengers have already been affected since the strike began. For anyone with trips booked, refunds, credits, and rebooking options are being offered.

It’s been a messy few days, but this moment feels like a turning point for workers across the industry.

Click Here: To learn more about the latest update from Air Canada.

Together with Digest Lights!

Winnipeg: Lock in Your Christmas Lights Early (+$150 Off)

Winnipeg homeowners, skip the ladder this winter. Digest Lights is opening a limited batch of Priority Install Passes just for Winnipeg Digest readers. If you want your home glowing without touching frozen gutters or risking a fall, this is for you.

Here’s What You’ll get:

• FREE in‑home design consultation (we visit, show mockups of your home, and plan your design)

• $150 Reader Credit for Winnipeg Digest readers who book by Oct 7

• Priority scheduling: pick your install week before we fill (we cap installs weekly)

• Stay‑Lit Guarantee: if a bulb goes out, we fix it within 48 hours or you get a
  full refund

• Commercial‑grade, custom‑cut lights (warm white or colours), designed specially for your home

• Full service: install → maintain → takedown → storage (no ladders, no bins)

But, why now? Because Winnipeg winter sneaks up fast, and we cap installs by week. Spots go first-come, first-served. So, if you want zero ladders, zero storage, and a guaranteed “wow,” grab your pass today. (while the $150 credit still lasts)

If you know you’re doing lights this year, lock your week while the credit and early dates are still open. Hit the button below to book your FREE 15‑minute design consult. We’ll come by, show your mockup, and make it easy.

Advertise with us by emailing: [email protected]

Community Spotlight

Folklorama Wraps Up with 361,000 Visits Across Winnipeg

Every summer, Folklorama turns Winnipeg into a patchwork of cultures, and this year was no different. For two weeks, families, neighbours, and friends filled pavilions across the city to share food, music, and traditions from around the world. Now that the festival has closed, the final tally shows just how much people came out to celebrate.

Here’s what stood out:

• 361,703 visits were made to 43 cultural pavilions across the city

• 915 performances filled the stages, plus countless late-night parties

• Nearly 87,000 volunteer hours kept things running smoothly

• Two new pavilions joined the mix, and cultural tours expanded with wine, beer, and much more!

Folklorama isn’t just about the numbers. It’s about neighbours opening their doors and inviting us to experience their traditions. That spirit of welcome is what makes the festival feel like home, no matter where you come from.

Next summer will be extra special: Folklorama’s 55th anniversary runs August 2–15, 2026, and it’s shaping up to be a celebration the whole city can share in.

Click Here: To learn more about Folklorama’s impact on our city.

Community Digest

Snow Lake Residents Set to Return Home After Wildfire Evacuations

For the residents of Snow Lake, being away from home twice in one summer has been anything but easy. After weeks of waiting, about 1,000 residents are finally being told it’s safe to return later this week.

The town says it’s ready to welcome folks back and give them the support they need to settle in again.

• The evacuation order is expected to lift Friday morning

• A welcome centre will be set up at the community hall with food, mental health supports, and resources

• The most recent evacuation lasted about a month, with families staying in Winnipeg and other reception centres

• Fires near Snow Lake are still listed as “out of control,” but Manitoba Wildfire Service has advised it’s safe to return

This wildfire season has been one of the hardest in recent memory, yet Snow Lake has shown remarkable strength.

After so much waiting and uncertainty, the chance to finally return home is more than just relief. It’s a reminder of how tightly a community can hold together, even in the hardest times.

Click Here: To read the latest wildfire updates.

City Updates

Winnipeg Adds Five New Supportive Housing Sites

A safe place to come home to shouldn’t feel out of reach. Yet for many in our city, like people leaving hospitals, youth stepping out of care, or those moving on from encampments, it too often is. But, more supportive housing finally changes that. It offers not just shelter, but the care and stability needed to truly start over.

That’s why the City, along with the Province and local non-profits, is moving forward with five new supportive housing sites.

• Locations include Sherburn St., Plessis Rd., Stella Ave., Poseidon Bay, and McPhillips St.

• These homes are designed for people at critical moments: refugees, those at risk of violence, and people with mental health needs

• Each site will offer stable housing along with wrap-around health and safety supports

• Open houses are coming up Sept. 2–4 at community centres and libraries so residents can learn more

These projects aren’t just about new buildings. They’re about giving people the foundation to rebuild their lives and making sure no one in Winnipeg has to face those turning points without a safe place to land.

Click Here: To learn more about the supportive housing sites and see the exact addresses.

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!

• Movies in the Park: Wild Robot & Wicked | 6:30PM & 8:45PM, Aug 22 (FREE)

  • Location: The Exchange District

  • Description: Join us for Movies in the Park at the Lyric Theatre, part of Assiniboine Park's Summer Entertainment Series!

• Zoo Nights | 6PM-10PM, Aug 22 (Tickets)

  • Location: Assiniboine Park Zoo

  • Description: Join us for some Friday fun and and grown-up good times at the Zoo! Each themed adults-only evening will include live music, zoo chats, summery sips and snacks, and more.

• Alleyways in the Exchange 2025 | 5PM-10PM, Aug 22 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: Exchange District

  • Description: Explore curated markets, live performances, and hidden gems in the alleys of the Exchange District. Featuring a market, audio performances, an art lounge, and dance performances all against the backdrop of a National Historic Site in Winnipeg’s most walkable urban neighbourhood.

• Chinatown & Dim Sum Tour | 11AM-1PM, Aug 23 (Tickets)

  • Location: Chinatown

  • Description: You’ll discover the customs of dim sum, from ordering etiquette to cultural insights, while exploring the historic area on foot. Learn about the history of Chinatown and walk away filled with food, knowledge, and a new appreciation for this beautiful, unique downtown neighbourhood!

• Manitoba Night Market & Festival | 3PM-11PM, Aug 24 (Tickets)

  • Location: Assiniboia Downs

  • Description: Discover over 100 Manitoba artisans and vendors, indulge in delicious eats from 20+ food trucks, and enjoy a wide variety of live music, a tattoo pop-up, and kids’ entertainment that will keep the whole family smiling.

• Manitoba Harness Racing | Aug 23 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: The LOOP

  • Description: Heart-pounding action, exhilarating finishes, and unforgettable moments on the track! Whether you’re a seasoned racing fan or a curious newcomer, there’s something for everyone.

• Gonzo Drift Bash | 12PM-5:30PM, Aug 23 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: Springs Church Drift Pad

  • Description: Gonzo Bash is a full day of non stop action! Featuring Drifting, Car Show and Food Trucks!

• 2025 Whyte Ridge Summer Carnival | 12PM-4PM, Aug 24 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: Whyte Ridge Community Centre

  • Description: Expect a day packed with activities, BBQ, and music — perfect for kids and families alike! Whether you’re bouncing, splashing, or just enjoying a hotdog while listening to great tunes, there’s something for everyone.

• Jazz in the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden: Marika Galea 
  | 12PM-1PM, Aug 24 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: Assiniboine Park

Exciting Events: August 20th & 21st

Events marked with (Tickets / $) require advance purchase. Double-check dates before heading out!

Sports🏒

• Wellness Wednesdays at the Lyric Theatre | 6PM, Aug 20 (FREE)

  • Location: Lyric Theatre

  • Description: Strength and Mobility with Dani Wenger

• Live Horse Racing | 7:30PM, Aug 20 (Free/Learn More)

  • Location: Assiniboia Downs

• Exchange Summer Fitness – Bootcamp | 12-12:45PM, Aug 20 (FREE)

  • Location: 201 Portage Plaza

• Victory Lane Speedway Race #11 | 7PM, Aug 21 ($)

  • Location: Victory Lane Speedway

• CEBL’s 2025 Championship Weekend/Festival | Aug 21-24 (More Info)

  • Location: Multiple Venues

  • Description: A celebration of culture, music, community and Canadian basketball. The weekend includes the top CEBL teams competing to win the league championship trophy, a concert lineup showcasing exciting musical performers, minor basketball events, and an array of activities designed to engage a cross-section of the local community.

Community Fun🎆

• Play at The Forks | Daily (FREE)

  • Basketball with Basketball Manitoba: 6PM-8PM, Aug 20

    • Location: CN Field and Stage

  • Skateboarding with Pitikwé: Aug 21-24

    • Location: The Plaza Skatepark

  • Table Tennis with Sport Manitoba: 6PM-8PM, Aug 21

    • Location: On Grass Along CN Field and Stage

  • Mushroom Foraging with River City Mushrooms: 6PM-6:30PM, Aug 21

    • Location: In the Public Orchard

• Corn Maze | August 20 - Nov 2 (More Info)

  • Location: A Maze In Corn

  • Description: Enjoy the country views while wandering through the corn maze, climb the giant bale pyramid, and visit the petting zoo.

• Summer Line-Up: String Paintings | 11AM-3PM, Aug 20-24 (FREE)

  • Location: Manitoba Children's Museum

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

• The Market at FortWhyte Farms | Aug 20-22 (FREE)

  • Location: FortWhyte Farms

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

• Baby Bison Walk | Aug 20 & 23 (Tickets)

  • Location: FortWhyte Alive

  • Description: Come see the ninth-largest land animal at its smallest and cutest! See the herd in action, hear how this icon of the prairie almost disappeared, and feel a connection to the herd as you see the miracle of baby bison.

• Downtown Farmers' Market | 10AM-2PM, Aug 21 (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.

• Paddle Nights | Aug 21 ($)

  • Location: FortWhyte Alive

  • Description: Spend an evening paddling before sunset for the perfect summer night.

• Transcona BIZ Night Markets | 4-8PM, Aug 21 (FREE/More Info)

  • 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.

• Bison Bus Tour | Aug 21 & 24 ($)

  • Location: FortWhyte Alive

  • Description: See North America’s largest land mammal from just metres away, interacting in their natural habitat.

Performances🎭

• Frozen The Broadway Musical | Aug 20-24 (Tickets)

  • Location: Rainbow Stage

  • Description: Adapted from the first Frozen film which was the highest grossing film of the year (2013) and the highest-grossing animated film of all time.

• Summer Concert Series: Slow Leaves | 7PM, Aug 21 (FREE)

  • Location: Lyric Theatre

• MAMMA MIA: An Abba Love Story | Aug 21 - Oct 11 (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.

• Europa Super Circus | Aug 21-31 (Tickets)

  • Location: Under the Big Top at Assiniboia Downs

  • Description: Performances by world-class artists from all over the globe include high-flying aerialists, tight-wire acrobatics, FMX riders in the Wheel of Death, dizzying roller skaters, comedic clowns, and more!

Special Events/Comedy🥂

• Savour the Exchange Food Tour | 6PM-8:30PM, Aug 20 (Tickets)

  • Location: The Exchange District

  • Description: Savour a few of these one-of-a-kind dining experiences on a food tour hosted by the Exchange District BIZ.

• Experiencing Eden: Disability and the Natural World | Aug 20-23 (FREE)

  • Location: La Maison des artistes visuels francophones

  • Description: Through this inclusive art exhibit, L'Arche Winnipeg's members invite you into their perspectives as people with disabilities.

• Shaun Murphy | Aug 20-23 ($)

  • Location: Rumor's Restaurant and Comedy Club

  • Description: Shaun Murphy is a New York City comedian originally from Buffalo whose likability and awkwardness keeps audiences captivated whenever he performs.

• Cinema Under the Stars 2025 - UN P’TIT TRUC EN PLUS | 9PM, Aug 21 (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.

• The Life and Work of David Wynyard Bellhouse, a Winnipeg Architect Lexture | 12PM, Aug 21 (FREE/More Info)

  • Location: 101-177 Lombard Avenue

  • Description: In this talk, we will describe his building background in England and his own work in the building industry in Manitoba, illustrated with several examples that are mostly standing today.

Music 🎵

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

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