Winnipeg’s Biggest Summer Market is Back

Author

Jas Singh
May 05, 2025

Happy Monday, Winnipeggers!

Last-minute 11 p.m. note: Go Jets Go! What a game and what a comeback. The whole city came alive last night, and the energy was unreal. It’s nights like that that remind you how special this city really is. The people, the passion, the way everyone showed up — it truly felt like we all helped carry the team to that win. We’ll have all the updates for Round 2 in the next edition!

Now, for some more good news, after months of planning. Our Summer of Local markets kick off this weekend, and we couldn’t be more excited. We’ve pulled together over 50 local vendors, 10+ food trucks, bouncy castles, a live DJ, and special visits from Spiderman and Snow White to make this the kind of event series Winnipeg families can count on all summer long.

It’s totally free, built for the community, and we really hope to see as many of you out there as possible. Whether you're coming to shop, snack, or just let the kids run wild while you enjoy a coffee, this is our way of making summer in Winnipeg feel a little more special.

More info about the markets is coming up below! We’ve also got a unique poll for you in today’s email, so keep an eye out and let us know what you think.

Now, in today’s edition:

  • Winnipeg Transit Gets Its Biggest Update Ever

  • Winnipeg’s Biggest Summer Market is Back

  • Restaurant of the Week

  • Safety Reminder: Water Meter Reading Program Starts Today

  • Heads-Up: Counterfeit Bills in Winnipeg

  • Multiple events this week & more

— Jas Singh

News

Winnipeg Transit Gets Its Biggest Update Ever

Source: City of Winnipeg

If you’ve ever stood at a freezing bus stop wondering if your ride’s actually coming, you’re not alone! Winnipeg has always lagged behind when it comes to reliable transit. But something big is finally happening.

Starting June 29, our city is getting a complete transit makeover with the new Primary Transit Network. And you can preview the new routes right now!

Here’s what’s new:

  • Trip planning is live at winnipegtransit.com and on the app

  • Routes are more direct, with more frequent service

  • Printable timetables are also available under “Explore routes”

You can even test it out now! Just select a date in July and see how your route looks.

This isn’t just a new map. It’s the first step toward making transit in Winnipeg something we can actually count on. So go play around with it, see how much time you'll be saving, and share it with your friends and family who take the bus!

Let’s make the most of this long-overdue update.

Click Here: Test it out now!

Together with The Locals X Winnipeg Digest!

Winnipeg’s Biggest Summer Market Series

It still feels a little surreal to say this, but we’re kicking off our first-ever Summer of Locals market this weekend, and we’re putting it on with our friends at The Locals!

We started Winnipeg Digest to highlight the best of this city. And now, we’re bringing it all to life with 50+ vendors, food trucks, and fun for the whole family.

Here’s what to expect:

  • 🛍️ Over 50 local vendors

  • 🍔 More than 10 food trucks

  • 🎵 Full DJ Set

  • 🎨 Face painting, bouncy castles, and visits from Spiderman and Snow White!

Happening at The Outlet Collections Mall on May 10 & 11. It’s our first big community event, and we’d love to see you there. Bring your family, your neighbours, and anyone who loves supporting local.

Thanks for being part of this journey. We seriously can’t wait to celebrate with you. Now, click the button below to see what you can expect!

Will you be coming to our first ever Summer Markets on May 10 or 11?

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.

Restaurant of the Week: Juneberry

If you’re a brunch person (and let’s be honest, most of us are), Juneberry is one of those places that just gets it.

Tucked into the heart of Old St. Vital, this cozy spot feels like a warm hug. The space is stylish, the staff is kind, and there’s a calm energy that makes you want to slow down and enjoy every bite. Whether you're catching up with friends or taking a quiet moment to yourself, it just feels good to be there.

And the food matches the vibe:

  • The Eggs Benedict is a classic, but with caramelized onions and a rosemary hollandaise that makes it feel a little extra

  • The beef short rib hash is the kind of dish that’ll keep you full until dinner

  • And the Juneberry pancakes? Soft, lemony, and topped with blueberry and pistachio. Just plain lovely.

📍Location: 531 St Mary’s Rd

With summer in full swing, it’s the perfect time to stop by, grab a seat on the patio, and treat yourself to a slow, delicious brunch.

City Updates

Safety Reminder: Water Meter Reading Program Starts Today

The City is kicking off its annual water meter reading program today, and while most visits are routine, we wanted to share a quick safety reminder.

Please don’t let anyone into your home unless they show proper City of Winnipeg photo ID.

Here’s what to expect:

  • The program runs from today to August 29

  • Visits happen on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 8:30 p.m.

  • Meter readers will wear a City uniform, carry a hand-held device, and show photo ID

  • They’ll only knock on front or side doors, never at the back

  • If you’re not home, they’ll leave a card so you can submit your reading online or by phone

The city only needs one accurate reading per year, so let’s help make the process smooth and stay safe while we do it!

Another Heads-Up: Counterfeit Bills in Winnipeg

Source: WPS

Most of us don’t think twice when someone hands us a bill. It doesn’t even cross our minds that it could be fake. But lately, that’s exactly what’s been happening across our city.

Since the start of the year, police have seized over $12,000 in counterfeit bills, many of them looking and feeling just like the real thing. The giveaway is a tiny “prop money” label hidden in the holographic strip.

Here’s what to keep an eye out for:

  • Small “prop money” text near the shiny hologram

  • Bills that feel more like paper than plastic

  • Colours that seem a bit dull or off

  • Creases, faded images, or peeling holograms

  • Serial numbers between GJR6710018 and GJR6710022

If you’re accepting cash, whether you’re selling on FB Marketplace, running a small business, or just helping a friend, be sure to take a second look!

Community Digest

Manitoba Measles Update: New Exposure Site

We don’t like writing updates like this, but keeping each other safe means staying informed.

Manitoba Health just added a new measles exposure site in Winkler. If you or someone you know was there, please keep an eye on symptoms and reach out if needed.

Exposure details:

  • 📍 Real Canadian Superstore, 175 Cargill Rd., Winkler

  • 🕓 April 28, between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.

  • 📅 Monitor for symptoms until May 20

Symptoms include fever, red eyes, tiredness, and a blotchy rash that starts on the face. If you feel unwell, isolate at home and call your health-care provider before going in.

Measles spreads fast but is preventable. If you’re unsure about your vaccine status, call your local health provider!

Let’s all keep looking out for one another. And please share this with anyone who might’ve been in the area.

Preview the 2025–26 University of Manitoba Calendar

If you’re a university student or know someone who is, you know how fast things move once the school year starts. One minute you’re enjoying summer, the next you’re juggling course schedules, deadlines, and last-minute textbook runs.

But, good news. The University of Manitoba just released the preview of its 2025–26 Academic Calendar, so you can start planning now.

Here’s what you’ll find inside:

  • Important dates for the full school year

  • Course descriptions and pre-reqs for Fall and Winter

  • Info on programs, faculties, and academic rules

  • Resources, policies, and contact info

  • Separate versions for undergrad, grad, and Saint-Boniface

This is the early version, and more updates will roll out in May and June. The final calendar drops July 2.

If you or someone you care about is registering soon, it’s a great time to sit down and get ahead of the chaos!

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!

  • The Leaf Unplugged | 7PM, May 7 (Tickets)

    • Location: The Leaf Assiniboine Park

    • Description: Step away from the constant buzz of technology and the demands of daily life, grab your yoga mat and book and come to The Leaf Unplugged.

  • Grease Lightning Musical | May 8-11 (Tickets)

    • Location: Destination Dinner Stage

    • Description: Greetings, Winnipeg High class of 1959, you are all invited to the biggest Rock and Roll reunion this town has ever seen!

  • The Malaga Ship - A Story of Maine and the Middle Passage | 7PM, May 9 (Free)

    • Location: EG Hall, The University of Winnipeg

    • Description: A powerful 45-minute performance by Antonio Rocha that brings to life the harrowing journey of enslaved Africans through movement, voice, and personal connection. Told from the perspective of the ship itself, the story is followed by a thoughtful discussion on the Middle Passage and Rocha’s deep ties to the narrative.

  • Scattered Seeds “Mother’s Day Special” Market | May 9-10 (Tickets)

    • Location: Red River Exhibition Park

    • Description: Honour the Mother, mentor, or special someone in your life with a memorable day of hunting for unique treasures, making memories, and welcoming spring.

  • Manitoba Metalfest 2025 | May 9-10 (Tickets)

    • Location: The Park Theatre

    • Performers: Obscura, Athiest, Origin, Decrepit Birth, Fractal Universe and Spineless!

  • Niko Moon Concert | 8PM, May 10 (Tickets)

    • Location: Burton Cummings Theatre

  • Free Family Fishing Weekend | May 10-11 (Learn More)

    • Location: FortWhyte Alive

    • Description: Start the season off right by fishing for Northern pike, yellow perch and carp on the lakes.

  • The Summer of Locals | May 10-11 (Free/Learn More)

    • Location: Outlet Collection Winnipeg

    • Description: Free summer markets. 50+ vendors, 10+ food trucks, bouncy castles, face painting, and more!

  • Dear Mom... | 3PM, May 11 (Tickets)

    • Location: Prairie Theatre Exchange

    • Description: An afternoon of music and stories celebrating mothers, mother-figures and motherhood in all its complicated glory.

      An all-Winnipeg ensemble of musicians will gather for one performance only, playing some of the most famous songs written about and for mothers in celebration of this special day.

Exciting Events: May 5th & 6th

Music 🎵

  • Machine Head/In Flames/Lacuna Coil/Unearth | 6PM, May 5 (Tickets)

    • Location: Burton Cummings Theatre

    • Description: Get ready for a heavy night. Machine Head is bringing their explosive blend of metal and raw energy, delivering powerful riffs and a show that hits hard from start to finish.

  • Chico Perez-Sarao/Olivia Pérez-Collellmir feat. Charles Benavent and Nino de los Reyes (Oh! Jazz) | 8PM, May 5

    • Location: The Rec Room

  • Dayglo Abortions with Dirt Nap and The Devil's Punch Bowl | 7PM, May 6 (Tickets)

    • Location: Bulldog Event Center

Family Fun🎆

  • Family Fun Spring Fair | May 5-25, Open Fri, Sat & Sun (Tickets)

    • Location: Assiniboia Downs

    • Description: Multiple rides, games and food trucks for you and your friends to enjoy!

  • ELEVATE: Manaaji'idiwin Play | May 5-17 (Tickets)

    • Location: John Hirsch Mainstage

    • Description: What happens when the elevator gets stuck on your way to an important meeting? As Jonesie and Tallahassee attempt to escape their circumstances, the cramped space becomes a pressure cooker and a bitingly funny conversation.

  • Toddler Tuesdays at The Leaf | 9:30-10AM, May 6 (Tickets)

    • Location: Mediterranean Biome at The Leaf

    • Description: Your little one will enjoy music and games while discovering the joy of movement!

  • The Band's Visit Musical | May 6-11 (Tickets)

    • Location: Winnipeg Jewish Theatre

    • Description: An Egyptian Police Band arrives in Israel to play a concert. After a mix-up at the border, they are sent to a remote village in the middle of the desert.

Special Events 🎨

  • Metis Community Celebration | 5:30PM, May 5 (More Info)

    • Location: University of Winnipeg Power Corporation Atrium

  • Mike Paramore Comedy | May 6-10 (Tickets)

    • Location: Rumor's Restaurant and Comedy Club

    • Description: His natural ability to infuse everyday situations with energetic, uplifting humor, combined with a natural ability to put you at ease is key to his personal brand of comedy.

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