Happy Monday, Winnipeg!

Hope you’re enjoying these last few days of the year, whether that means thinking ahead to the new year, making plans with friends, or simply slowing down and spending time with family. This in-between week tends to feel a little calmer, and that’s not a bad thing.

If you’re starting to think about how you want to ring in 2026, we’ve got you covered. From relaxed, family-friendly community events and fireworks to full New Year’s Eve galas and nights out, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate around the city.

We’ve gathered the key events happening over the next few days so you can look through your options, make a plan that works for you, and head into the new year feeling ready instead of rushed.

Now, in today’s edition:

— Jas Singh

A blowing snow advisory issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada affected parts of southern Manitoba yesterday, with reduced visibility making travel difficult across Winnipeg and the Red River Valley.

As we write this, conditions are expected to gradually improve by Sunday evening, but caution is still advised if you’re heading out.

If you do need to be out, slow down, leave plenty of space between vehicles, and allow extra time to get where you’re going. With winter weather being especially unpredictable, it’s always worth double-checking the forecast and advisories before heading out, even if conditions look better later in the day.

To see whether the advisory is still in effect and check current weather conditions in your area, be sure to click the link below.

Click here: To check current advisories and forecasts on the official Government of Canada weather website.

As the year winds down, Canad Inns Winter Wonderland is heading into its final week at Red River Exhibition Park. If you’ve been meaning to go, or want one last holiday outing before routines fully return, this week is your last chance before it wraps up for the season on Saturday, January 3rd.

Winter Wonderland has been a favourite Winnipeg tradition for a reason. It’s easy, relaxed, and something everyone can enjoy together without braving the cold for too long.

Winter Wonderland is open every night from 6 pm to 10 pm at Red River Exhibition Park, West Gate, 3977 Portage Avenue.

Admission is $30 per vehicle, making it an easy plan for families, grandparents, friends, or anyone wanting one more cozy night out before the season officially ends.

Roasted Nomad is one of those places we’ve loved since day one, and one we keep finding reasons to return to.

This woman-owned brunch spot has built a loyal following thanks to thoughtful cooking, genuinely good coffee, and a space that feels welcoming the moment you walk in. With a 4.7-star rating, it’s clearly doing something right.

Roasted Nomad keeps things simple and relaxed. First come, first served, no reservations, making it a great stop for slow mornings, catch-ups with friends, or a cozy solo brunch.

Whether you’re meeting friends, hosting family from out of town, or treating yourself to a solo brunch date, this is one St. Boniface spot worth lingering over.

📍 393 Marion Street (inside the Marion Hotel)
🕓 Tuesday–Sunday: 8:00AM–2:30PM

Click Here: To check out their full menu or plan your visit!

As mentioned last week, there’s still time to give your Christmas tree a useful second life instead of sending it to the landfill. The City’s Let’s Chip In depots are now open, making it easy to recycle your tree and turn it into free wood chip mulch that can be used around the city.

The program has been around for decades and has already helped recycle hundreds of thousands of trees across the city. It’s an easy post-holiday habit that supports waste reduction and gives something back to local gardens and yards.

Let’s Chip In depots are open from today until January 31, with multiple locations and a mix of daytime and 24-hour access. Wood chip mulch made from recycled trees will be available in early January, free to Winnipeg residents while supplies last (bring your own container and shovel).

Even if you don’t have a real Christmas tree, sharing this with friends or family who do helps make sure more trees are recycled and nothing goes to waste after the holidays.

Click Here: To see all depot locations and hours and learn more about the program.

We know this one’s a bit last-minute, but we wanted to highlight it for anyone looking for a simple way to get out of the house, stretch their legs, and enjoy some winter fun.

The City is hosting free holiday public skating today at Ab McDonald Arena. It’s an easy, festive option if you’ve got time this afternoon.

If you’ve got friends or family home for the holidays, especially anyone who loves to skate, this is a great one to share and head out together.

Click Here: To keep up with future free public skating times and City-run drop-ins!

New Year’s Eve celebrations are just around the corner, and it’s a good time to plan a safe way home. Winnipeg Transit and Transit Plus will once again offer free service starting at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, December 31, through the City’s Free Ride Program in partnership with Manitoba Public Insurance.

All regular and Transit Plus service will be free for the evening, with last buses leaving downtown around 1:30 a.m. The goal is simple and important: help everyone get home safely and reduce the risks that come with impaired driving on one of the busiest nights of the year.

Checking your route ahead of time can make the night smoother, especially with late-night schedules and holiday service changes. Using Navigo or the Winnipeg Transit app makes it easier to plan your trip before heading out.

Click Here: To learn more about the Free Ride Program and plan your route using Navigo.

This section includes only the major events happening soon. For a complete list of all events, you'll have to wait for future editions!

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