Winnipeg’s First Kids Cooking School

Author

Jas Singh
August 06, 2025

Midweek check-in, Winnipeg!

I’ll keep it short, as today’s email is packed.

From community updates to safety reminders, and a few exciting local wins worth celebrating, this one’s all about catching up and helping you plan ahead.

So whether you're looking to check on city changes, discover what’s happening around the neighbourhood, or lock in your weekend plans early, it’s all here for you.

In today’s edition:

  • St. Léon Gardens Celebrates 35 Years on St. Mary’s Road

  • Winnipeg’s First Cooking School Just for Kids

  • New Winnipeg Art Exhibition Features Artists with Intellectual Disabilities

  • Winnipeg Humane Society Seeks Homes for Over 500 Cats

  • Multiple events this week & more

— Jas Singh

News

St. Léon Gardens Celebrates 35 Years on St. Mary’s Road

Source: St. Léon Gardens

If you grew up in the area, you probably remember your first time stopping by St. Léon Gardens Market. Maybe it was for a basket of strawberries in July, or just a quick run for herbs on your way home. For a lot of Winnipeggers, it’s been part of the neighbourhood for as long as we can remember.

Back in August of 1990, Denis Rémillard and Lise Mulaire had just left behind their farm in St-Léon after a tough drought. With a few tables and baskets, they started fresh, right on the corner of St. Mary’s Road and Carrière Avenue.

Since then, it’s grown into one of the city’s most loved local markets.

  • Still family-run, rooted in community since day one

  • Serving up local produce, fresh herbs, and garden plants for 35 years

  • While being full of friendly faces, familiar smells, and that local charm

You’ll find all kinds of fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and plants. Plus a welcoming vibe that feels like home.

Whether you’ve been a regular since the start or just driven past that sunny corner, this is the year to stop by, support local, and say congratulations.

And if you’ve never been, it’s the perfect time to see what makes it so special!

Together with Lil Chef Institute!

Winnipeg’s First Cooking School Just for Kids

There’s something special about watching a kid help make dinner. Measuring flour with two hands, stirring a little too hard, and grinning when the pancakes flip just right.

That’s the magic behind Lil Chef Institute, Winnipeg’s first-ever cooking school made just for kids.

It’s a local, small business built from the heart. And it’s helping kids as young as 3 years old feel confident, curious, and proud in the kitchen.

Here’s what they offer:

  • Weekly classes, summer camps, birthday parties, drop-ins, and hands-on workshops

  • Ages 3 to 12 are welcome, with no pressure, just fun and learning

  • Kids build life skills like independence, time management, and teamwork (without even realizing it)

  • Founded by a Winnipeg instructor who saw how powerful it was when a toddler helped make supper

Whether they’re making breakfast for the family or just learning how to chop safely, this is about more than food. It’s about helping kids believe in themselves.

Click the button below to learn more about Lil Chef Institute, and share this with a friend who has kids, your neighbours, your nieces and nephews, or even the grandparents looking for something fun for their grandkids.

Advertise with us by emailing: [email protected]

Community Spotlight

New Winnipeg Art Exhibition Features Artists with Intellectual Disabilities

For over 50 years, L’Arche Winnipeg has been quietly building something beautiful, a community rooted in dignity, friendship, and belonging. A place where people with intellectual disabilities are not just supported, but celebrated.

And this month, they’re opening their doors in a whole new way.

“Experiencing Eden: Disability and the Natural World” is L’Arche Winnipeg’s first-ever art exhibition, running from August 7 to 23 at La Maison des artistes visuels francophones. Through paintings, ceramics, and sensory spaces, L’Arche artists invite us into how they see and feel the natural world, through sight, sound, and touch.

Here’s what you’ll find:

  • A bright and joyful Studio Gallery filled with artwork that celebrates nature through colour, texture, and expression

  • A calming Sensory Garden Room, offering a quiet space that feels like a walk through the park

  • And a chance to create your own dragonfly and add it to a growing collaborative art piece

The exhibit runs August 7–23, with an opening night and artist talk at 7PM on Thursday, August 7.

Come see the world through new eyes. And celebrate the kind of community we all deserve to be part of.

Community Digest

Winnipeg Humane Society Seeks Homes for Over 500 Cats

Source: Winnipeg Humane Society

If you’ve ever thought about adopting a furry friend, this is your sign.

The Winnipeg Humane Society is completely full right now, after taking in a staggering 573 cats and kittens last month alone. That’s nearly double what they saw in June, and the shelter at 45 Hurst Way is now doing everything they can to keep up.

It’s the fullest they’ve been in a long time, and every one of those cats is just waiting for someone to take them home.

Here’s what things look like right now:

  • Many of these animals were surrendered, found as strays, or rescued from unsafe conditions

  • Over 250 have already been adopted, but hundreds still need homes

  • Adoption fees are currently reduced, and the promo is extended until August 10

If you’ve got room in your home (and your heart), now’s a beautiful time to make a difference for a sweet soul just waiting for a second chance.

Not ready to adopt? Spreading the word helps more than you know, so be sure to click the link below and share this with someone who’s been thinking about adopting.

City Updates

Thousands Evacuate as Wildfires Continue Across Manitoba

It’s the tail end of summer, but the wildfires aren’t letting up.

This week, thousands of people from Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation, just northwest of Thompson, have been forced to evacuate. Fires are burning dangerously close, cutting off road access and filling the air with heavy smoke.

Families are being flown out of Thompson Airport and into Winnipeg, where shelters have been set up at the RBC Convention Centre and the Leila Soccer Complex.

Here’s what we know so far:

  • Around 4,000 people from Nelson House are currently being evacuated

  • With multiple fires near Thompson, Leaf Rapids, and Split Lake still out of control

  • And with over 165 wildfires now active across Manitoba, it makes this our worst season in over 30 years

It’s heartbreaking to see so many leave their homes, unsure of when they can return. Crews are working non-stop, and communities are pulling together to help with shelter, food, and basic needs.

If you’re looking for ways to support evacuees, from donations to emergency supplies, be sure to click the link below.

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 at the Lyric Theatre: Inside Out 2 & Twilight | 6:30PM & 8:45PM, August 8 (FREE/More Info)

    • Location: Lyric Theatre

    • Description: The Lyric Theatre concession will be serving popcorn, ice cream treats, and other tasty snacks.

  • Zoo Nights: Country Croonin’ | 6PM-10PM, Aug 8 (Tickets)

    • Location: Assiniboine Park Zoo

    • Description: This 18+ after-hours event at the Zoo features themed music, engaging educator-led tours, and unforgettable animal encounters!

  • Wes Barker: Stunt Magician | 8:30PM, Aug 8-9 (Tickets)

    • Location: The Basement

    • Description: As seen on Netflix, America's Got Talent, and Kill Tony - Wes Barker brings his one-of-a-kind magic show to The Basement!

  • Winnipeg Tattoo Convention | Aug 8-10 (Tickets)

    • Location: Red River Ex Place

    • Description: This three-day celebration of tattooing takes over Red River Exhibition Park August 8th, 9th and 10th featuring more than 250 tattoo artists including local talent, some of North America’s best plus renowned tattoo artists from around the globe.

  • Cirque Italia Water Circus | August 8-18 (Tickets)

    • Location: St. Vital Centre

    • Description: Join the largest traveling spectacle in the United States and Canada, a universe of extraordinary events that captivate over 1 million happy spectators every year.

  • Tate McRae Concert | 7PM, August 9 ($)

    • Location: Canada Life Centre

    • Description: Tate Rosner McRae is a Canadian singer, songwriter, and dancer! Tate McRae has garnered over 11.3 billion career streams and multiple #1 Top 40 hits.

  • The Summer of Locals Market | 11AM-8PM, Aug 9-10 (More Info)

    • Location: Outlet Collection Mall

    • Description: Winnipeg’s biggest summer markets! Discover local vendors selling everything from food, drink, self-care, home décor, jewelry, and everything in between. Shop, taste, and explore local all for freel!

  • Manitoba Harness Racing | August 9 (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.

  • Jazz in the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden: Erin Propp + Larry Roy | 12PM-1PM, Aug 10 (FREE/More Info)

    • Location: Assiniboine Park

  • Winnipeg Beer Festival | 5PM-10PM, Aug 10 (Tickets)

    • Location: Fort Gibraltar

    • Description: Experience the best of beer at Winnipeg Beer Fest 2025! Immerse yourself in the vibrant craft beer scene of Winnipeg and sample some of the finest brews, ciders and spirits.

Exciting Events: August 6th & 7th

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

Sports🏒

  • Winnipeg Sea Bears vs Niagara River Lions | 7PM, Aug 6 ($)

    • Location: Canada Life Centre

  • Live Horse Racing | 7:30PM, Aug 6 (FREE)

    • Location: Assiniboia Downs

  • Exchange Summer Fitness – Bootcamp | 12-12:45PM, Aug 6 (FREE)

    • Location: 201 Portage Plaza

  • Winnipeg Professional Wrestling | 6-9PM, Aug 7 (Tickets)

    • Location: WAG-Qaumajuq Rooftop

    • Description: Winnipeg Professional Wrestling takes over the Winnipeg Art Gallery-Qaumajuq for the first time with MASTERPIECE.

  • Victory Lane Speedway Race #9 | 7PM, Aug 7 ($)

    • Location: Victory Lane Speedway

Community Fun🎆

  • South Osborne Farmers’ Market | 4PM-8PM, Aug 6 (FREE)

    • Location: Lord Roberts Community Centre

  • Play at The Forks | Daily (FREE/More Info)

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

      • Location: CN Field and Stage

    • Skateboarding with Pitikwé: Aug 7-10

      • Location: The Plaza Skatepark

    • Table Tennis with Sport Manitoba: 6PM-8PM, Aug 7

      • Location: On Grass Along CN Field and Stage

    • Mushroom Foraging with River City Mushrooms: 6PM-6:30PM, Aug 7

      • Location: In the Public Orchard

  • Summer Line-Up: Stacked Cardboard & Paint Sculptures | 11AM-3PM, July 30 - August 3 (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 6-8 (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 6 & 9 ($)

    • 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 7 (FREE/More Info)

    • 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.

  • Transcona BIZ Night Markets | 4-8PM, Aug 7 (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.

  • Paddle Nights | 6PM-8:30PM, Aug 7 ($)

    • Location: FortWhyte Alive

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

  • Bison Bus Tour | Aug 7 & 10 ($)

    • 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 7-24 (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.

  • MAMMA MIA: An Abba Love Story | August 7, 9 & 10 (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.

Special Events/Comedy🥂

  • Architect John D. Atchison: Hidden Tresures Walking Tour | 6:30PM, August 6 (FREE/More Info)

    • Location: 222 Broadway, in front of Fort Garry Hotel

    • Description: Join researcher and writer Gail Perry for a new walking tour of buildings designed by the prolific and accomplished architect John D. Atchison. John D. Atchison shaped the backdrop of Winnipeg, designing over 160 buildings (some 60 of them still in use) and advocated for its green and monumental spaces.

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

    • Location: The Exchange District

    • Description: Home to over 50 unique local restaurants, the Exchange District is an inspired community of culinary creativity. Savour a few of these one-of-a-kind dining experiences on a food tour hosted by the Exchange District BIZ.

  • Rob Pue | Aug 6-9 ($)

    • Location: Rumor's Restaurant and Comedy Club

    • Description: A gregarious and dynamic comedian with a knack for telling it like it is, Rob has become one of the brightest voices to hit the Canadian comedy scene.

  • Folklorama 2025 | Aug 6-16 (Tickets)

    • Location: Various venues throughout Winnipeg

    • Description: Travel the world without a passport! Experience world-class entertainment, enjoy delicious authentic cuisine, warm hospitality, and view beautiful cultural displays during Folklorama, the largest and longest-running multicultural festival of its kind in the world.

  • Cinema Under the Stars 2025 - KATAK, LE BRAVE BÉLUGA | 9PM, Aug 7 (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.

  • Steven Ho - Is It An Emergency? | 8PM, Aug 7 (Tickets)

    • Location: Club Regent Event Centre

    • Description: Steven Ho, the hilarious mastermind behind the "Tips from the ER" series, isn't just confined to the hospital corridors anymore. With over a decade of experience in the ER and a knack for storytelling, Steven's comedy tours offer audiences an unforgettable blend of laughter and insight into the absurdities of healthcare.

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].