Happy Thanksgiving, Winnipeg!

We hope you’re getting a chance to slow down today, maybe sneak in a second slice of pie, spend time with family, or just enjoy a quiet moment before the week picks back up.

In today’s edition, we’ve got a full rundown of what’s open and closed across the city, along with a few local highlights to keep you in the loop this long weekend.

So while you’re relaxing, take a few minutes to catch up on everything happening. From local updates to community stories, we’ve packed it all in to help you ease into the week ahead feeling a little more connected and hopefully a little more thankful too.

Now, in today’s edition:

• What’s Open and Closed in Winnipeg This Thanksgiving

• Tickets Giveaway to Winnipeg’s Most Magical Halloween Event!

• Restaurants of the Week: 3 Cozy Cafés/Bakeries to Visit This Fall

• Lane Closures Coming to the Perimeter This Week

• New Basketball Court Honours the Legacy of Chad Posthumus

• Multiple events this week & more

— Jas Singh

News

What’s Open and Closed in Winnipeg This Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving weekend’s here! And that means time for family dinners, leftovers, and maybe a few walks through crunchy leaves. But before you head out, here’s what’s open and closed across Winnipeg on Monday, October 13.

Malls & Shopping:

• Kildonan Place – 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• St. Vital – 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• Polo Park – 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• Outlet Collection – 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• Grant Park – 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

City Services:

• Civic offices – closed

• Garbage, recycling, and yard waste – collected as usual

• Brady 4R Depot – open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (others closed)

Transit:

• Winnipeg Transit is running on a Sunday schedule

Recreation & Pools:

• Pan Am Pool – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Cindy Klassen Complex – 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

• Margaret Grant Pool – 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Attractions:

• Assiniboine Park Zoo – open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• CMHR and Manitoba Museum – closed

Golf Courses:

• Crescent Drive, Kildonan Park, and Windsor Park courses – open all weekend, weather permitting

Take the long weekend slow, Winnipeg. Whether it’s family time, a quiet swim, or a round of golf before the frost sets in, we hope you get the rest and reset you deserve before the week ahead.

Together with Red River Ex!

Tickets Giveaway: 4 Family Passes to Winnipeg’s Most Magical Halloween Event!

Halloween is almost here, and the excitement’s already in the air. Costumes are coming out, candy’s piling up, and for families looking for a fun way to celebrate — this one’s perfect.

Witchy Wonderland kicks off this weekend at Red River Exhibition Park, and to make it even sweeter, we’re hosting a Thanksgiving giveaway! We’re giving away 4 sets of 4 tickets so your whole family can experience Winnipeg’s most kid-friendly Halloween event.

It’s playful, not too scary, and just right for the little ones.

Now, here’s why this event is a must for families:

• Carnival rides, a (not-so) haunted train, and a Scary-Go-Round made just for kids

• Spooky zones like Spidey’s Lair, Ship Wrecked, and The Witches Coven

• Face painting, inflatables, roaming characters, and photo ops everywhere

• Fireworks nights on Oct 17, 18, 23, 24, and 25

When & Where:
📍 Red River Exhibition Park – West Gate
📅 October 17–19 & 23–26

To enter, click the button below to see how on our socials! We’ll announce the winners this Friday through our Instagram story (and here in the Digest too).

A little Halloween magic, a little Thanksgiving gratitude and the perfect way to kick off the spooky season with the family.

Advertise with us by emailing: [email protected]

Restaurants of the Week: ⁠3 Cozy Cafés/Bakeries to Visit This Fall

There’s something about fall in Winnipeg that makes coffee taste better. Maybe it’s the crisp air, or how the city feels a little slower and warmer at the same time.

So this week, we’re highlighting three cafés in different corners of the city, each with its own charm, flavour, and reason to visit.

Across the Board Game Café – The One for Game Lovers

If your perfect fall day includes good food and a little friendly competition, this one’s for you.

• Café and coffeehouse with a full menu and local drinks

• Hundreds of board games to choose from

• Great for date nights or family afternoons

• Laid-back atmosphere with a touch of nostalgia

📍 211 Bannatyne Ave

Click Here: To browse the Across the Board Cafe menu & games!

Cleocatra Café – The One with Cats

For those who love their latte with a side of purring, this café is as comforting as it gets.

• Vintage-style coffee shop with warm, cozy seating

• Separate cat room with 15–20 adoptable rescue cats

• Two locations across the city

• Perfect for a quiet, feel-good afternoon

📍 859 Portage Ave & 106 Osborne St

Click Here: To look at all the cats and the menu before you visit!

La Belle Baguette – The One for Pastry Lovers

A little slice of France right here in Saint Boniface.

• Fresh croissants, danishes, tarts, and bread baked daily

• Authentic French flavours made with care

• Cozy space that smells like butter and happiness

• A local favourite for weekend mornings

📍 248 De La Cathedrale Ave

Click Here: To browse the baked goods and full menu!

Three neighbourhoods, three kinds of cozy, and endless reasons to slow down and enjoy fall in the city.

City Updates

Lane Closures Coming to the Perimeter This Week

If you’re heading out of the city this week, you might want to plan a few extra minutes. Repairs are coming to the CN railway tracks north of the Provincial Trunk Highway (PTH) 101 and PTH 15 (Dugald Road) intersection on the Perimeter Highway, and it’ll affect traffic for a few days.

Starting Wednesday, October 15 at 6 p.m., the Perimeter will be reduced to one lane in each direction while CN completes crossing repairs. Work is expected to finish by Sunday, October 19 at 6 p.m.

Here’s what to know:

• A temporary detour will guide drivers between the northbound and southbound lanes

• Expect slower traffic and possible delays

• Consider alternate routes if you can

The province is asking everyone to slow down in construction zones and follow posted signs. A little patience goes a long way, and these repairs mean a smoother, safer drive for everyone once it’s done.

Click Here: To get live updates on closures, detours, and travel times

New $10-A-Day Child-Care Centre Coming to Riverview Health Centre

Finding child care in Winnipeg can feel impossible sometimes, so news like this brings real hope for families, especially those working in health care.

Construction has officially started on a $5.6 million child-care centre at Riverview Health Centre, set to open in fall 2026. It’s part of Manitoba’s $10-a-day program, designed to make care more affordable and accessible for local parents.

Here’s what to know:

• Operated by Inspired by Wonder Inc., known for its inclusive and nurturing programs

• 80 total spaces: 16 for infants and 64 for preschoolers

• Low-sensory and gross-motor rooms to support kids with disabilities and additional needs

• An intergenerational program bringing together seniors and children through shared activities

All built to support health-care workers by offering care close to their workplace.

It’s part of a province-wide effort to add over 300 new child-care spaces in high-demand areas.

Click Here: To learn more about the construction and what it’ll include!

Community Digest

Jets Take Down Kings in 3-2 Home Win

It felt like a classic Winnipeg Saturday, a packed Canada Life Centre, the sound of the crowd roaring, and Mark Scheifele leading the charge.

The Jets pulled off a 3-2 win over the Los Angeles Kings, thanks to Scheifele’s two-goal performance and some sharp goaltending from Connor Hellebuyck.

Game Highlights:

• Alex Iafallo opened the scoring early in the first with help from Kyle Connor and Gabriel Vilardi

• The Kings answered with two goals in the second period

• Scheifele tied it late in the second after a steal and smooth breakaway finish

• He scored again midway through the third off a Josh Morrissey setup for the game-winner

• Hellebuyck made 29 key saves to hold the lead late

The Jets started strong, regrouped when it counted, and found a way to close it out in front of our home crowd.

They’re hitting the road today to face the New York Islanders and will look to carry that winning energy with them into New York.

Click Here: To view their full schedule and get tickets to the next game!

New Basketball Court Honours the Legacy of Chad Posthumus

There’s a new basketball court in Winnipeg that means a little more than most.

The Chad Posthumus Memorial Court has officially opened at Gateway Recreation Centre, honouring the late Sea Bears captain who left a lasting mark on the city and everyone who knew him.

Posthumus wasn’t just an incredible athlete; he was a teammate, a mentor, and someone who always gave back to his community. Now, his name will live on where it all began, on the same courts where he first learned to play.

About the project:

• Located at Gateway Recreation Centre

• Includes four new pickleball courts, paved paths, and seating areas

• Funded through a joint investment of $569,000 from the City and Province

The court stands as a lasting reminder of Chad’s kindness, leadership, and the way he inspired others to dream big and play with heart.

Click Here: To read more about the new court and Chad’s legacy in Winnipeg basketball.

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!

• Nazareth Concert | 7:30PM, Oct 15 (Tickets)

  • Location: Burton Cummings Theatre

  • Description: Scottish rock legends Nazareth return to the stage, bringing decades of classic hits, raw vocals, and timeless energy that defined an era of rock across Canada and beyond.

• Life of Pi Play | Oct 15 - Nov 8 (Tickets)

  • Location: Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre - John Hirsch Mainstage

  • Description: Based on the best-selling novel, this epic story of courage, faith and survival roars to life with riveting storytelling and stunning puppetry.

• 2025 Haunted Forest | October 16 - November 1 (Tickets)

  • Location: A Maze In Corn

  • Description: An interactive, outdoor experience that you won't soon forget. Enter at your own risk as our resident creatures of the forest come alive and lure you in with their haunting humour.

• Six Pines Haunted Attractions | Oct 16-31 (Tickets)

  • Location: Six Pines

  • Description: Six Pines Haunted Attractions has continuously strived to offer Manitoba’s haunt enthusiasts an ever-changing range of haunted houses since inception.

• HEEBIE JEEBIES | Oct 16-31 (Tickets)

  • Location: Heebie Jeebies, 53071 La Salle Road

  • Description: One of the most terrifying Halloween experiences and haunted houses near Winnipeg, Heebie Jeebies is back for its annual scare-fest.

• Blue Rodeo with Adam Baldwin | Oct 16-17 (Tickets)

  • Location: Burton Cummings Theatre

  • Description: Canadian icons Blue Rodeo are celebrating 40 years of timeless music with a coast-to-coast tour, joined by Adam Baldwin for a night of songs, stories, and nostalgia.

• Paranormal Investigation St Norbert Arts Centre | 7PM, Oct 17 (Tickets)

  • Location: St Norbert Arts Centre

  • Description: Step into the unknown at the St. Norbert Arts Centre for a chilling 18+ paranormal investigation. Explore the historic monastery ruins where art, history, and mystery intertwine.

• Topical Storm Comedy | 8:30PM, Oct 17 (Tickets)

  • Location: The Basement Comedy Lounge

  • Description: One of Winnipeg's longest-running (and most popular) theme shows, Jon Wilson's Topical Storm features the city's best comedians dishing on current events. It's easily the funnest way to find out what's in the news.

• ELTON ROHN - The Premiere Tribute to Elton John | 7PM, Oct 17 (Tickets)

  • Location: Club Regent Event Centre

  • Description: Experience the magic of Elton Rohn, the world-class tribute that captures Elton John’s voice, style, and energy. From the hits to the showmanship.

• Scattered Seeds | Oct 17-19 (Tickets)

  • Location: Red River Exhibition Park

  • Description: Celebrate 30 years of craft market. Each weekend hosts it’s own set of over 160 vendors.

  • Note: Use code WINNIPEGIDGEST for the cheapest tickets.

• Witchy Wonderland – A (not-so) Fright Fest | Oct 17 & 18 (Tickets)

  • Location: Red River Exhibition Park

  • Description: All the thrills, chills, and giggles to keep every ghost, goblin, and grandma grinning from ear to ear. Rides, costumes, face painting and more!

• Winnipeg Professional Wrestling - RUMBLE IN THE BURT
  | 7PM, October 19 (Tickets)

  • Location: Burton Cummings Theatre

  • Description: Shotzi Blackheart makes her long awaited returns and Former WWE Tag Team Champions and Bullet Club originals The Good Brothers make their WPW debut.

Exciting Events: October 13th & 14th

Music 🎵

• Live at Belle's (Sean Burns) | 12PM-3PM, Oct 13 (FREE)

  • Location: Belle's Kitchen + Music Hall

• Dying Fetus w/ Gates To Hell & Mugshot | 7PM, Oct 13 ($)

  • Location: Park Theatre

• Doug McArthur/Karina Joy/FERNANDA/Shay Wolf/The Good Sky Woman

  Diaphanie | 6-10PM, Oct 14 ($)

  • Location: The Handsome Daughter

• Hard Core: Only for The Real | 7PM, Oct 14 ($)

  • Location: Park Theatre

• Mikayla Zacharias/Nathaniel Muir/Chris Harris/Shake ‘N Bake 
  | 12PM-11PM, Oct 14

  • Location: Belle's Kitchen + Music Hall

Community Fun🎆

• Corn Maze | October 13 - November 2 ($)

  • 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.

• Boo at the Zoo | Oct 13-31 (Tickets)

  • Location: Assiniboine Park Zoo

  • Description: All aboard, the train’s ready to go to a town where Halloween spirits roam! Welcome to a mysterious land where fall festivities are in full swing.

• Wonderful Joe Play | Oct 14-26 (Tickets)

  • Location: Tom Hendry Warehouse Theatre

  • Description: Joe and his dog Mister lose their home, and facing separation, head into the world for one last grand adventure. The world seems broken, but Joe sees magic in the mundane, beauty amid brutality, and life in the lost and lonely.

Special / Halloween Events 🎃

• Liars at a Funeral Play | Oct 14-26 (Tickets)

  • Location: Prairie Theatre Exchange

  • Description: A hilarious comedy about family & falsehoods

    How do you get your dysfunctional, estranged family together in the same room? Pretend you’re dead and invite them all to your funeral, of course! Mavis, the matriarch of a family of misfits, fibbers, schemers and identical twins, has a plan to reunite them once and for all.

• Theresa Caputo Live! | 7PM, Oct 14 (Tickets)

  • Location: Club Regent Event Centre

  • Description: For over a decade, Theresa Caputo, the famed Long Island Medium and star of Raising Spirits, has connected audiences with messages of comfort, healing, and hope. Blending heartfelt stories, humour, and her extraordinary gift, she reminds fans that love never truly leaves.

• Erica Sigurdson Comedy | Oct 14-18 ($)

  • Location: Rumor's Restaurant and Comedy Club

  • Description: Erica is most recognizable from over 50 appearances on CBC Radio’s hit show The Debaters.

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