Winnipeg Wine Fest is Back

Author

Jas Singh
September 17, 2025

Midweek check-in, Winnipeg!

Fall feels like it’s officially here. The trees are starting to glow yellow, the air has that crisp edge in the evenings, and you can almost smell the change in the season.

This has always been one of our favourite times of year. The city slows down just enough, but it also fills up with a different kind of energy, pumpkin patches, cozy markets, and all the fall events that make Winnipeg feel special.

So if you’re a fall person, this next stretch is for you. We’ll be sharing plenty of those autumn happenings in the weeks ahead.

In today’s edition:

  • Manitoba Puts $200M Into School Repairs, Upgrades, and New Builds

  • Province Donates $100K in Support for Khalsa Aid

  • New Extended-Hours Medical Clinic to Open at St. Boniface Hospital

  • Winnipeg Wine Fest is Back Next Week!

  • Multiple events this week & more

— Jas Singh

News

Manitoba Puts $200M Into School Repairs, Upgrades, and New Builds

For families across the province, a well-built school isn’t just a building. It’s where kids spend most of their days, where they grow up, and where communities gather. That’s why this investment from the province matters.

Manitoba is putting nearly $200 million into school capital projects for the 2025–26 year, with a focus on safety, comfort, and accessibility.

Here’s where the money is going:

  • $23M for HVAC upgrades to improve air quality and heating in classrooms

  • $22M for roofing replacements and major structural repairs to aging school buildings

  • $4M for accessibility improvements, including elevators, ramps, lifts, and hygiene rooms

  • $59M for additions and renovations like modular classrooms, gym upgrades, and key facility improvements

  • $79M for eight new school builds across rural, urban, and northern Manitoba

The goal is simple: give every student a safe, well-equipped place to learn, whether they’re in Winnipeg, Thompson, or anywhere in between.

These updates will also support local construction jobs and help Manitoba contractors deliver lasting improvements in their communities.

Together with Great Escapes By Christine!

Destination: Bordeaux

Two Fully Planned Vacations for Winnipeggers

If you're always the one organizing the family, the calendar, and the to-do lists, here's your chance to let someone else take over, and really enjoy the kind of trip that leaves you feeling rested, full, and taken care of.

Christine Ward & Great Escapes, a Winnipeg-based travel expert who’s been to over 115 countries, has two upcoming group trips in 2026. The routes are beautiful. And the experiences are full of the kinds of moments you don’t forget.

Here’s what’s available now:

📍 England & Wales Tour - May 2026

  • Quaint towns, coastal walks and rolling hills!

    • 11 days exploring castles, countryside, and historic landmarks

    • Intimate group tour with a max of 26 people for a more personal experience

    • Highlights include York, Liverpool, Snowdonia, Stratford-upon-Avon, the Cotswolds, and more

    • All accommodations, transport, and planning are taken care of

📍 Bordeaux River Cruise - August 2026

  • Slow mornings. Glasses of wine by the water. A floating hotel through the French countryside.

    • 8-day cruise through the heart of Southwest France

    • Daily excursions you can join (or skip): castles, biking, wine tasting, and more

    • Beautiful towns, peaceful views, and meals you don’t have to cook

    • A chance to see Bordeaux, Arcachon, and more!

Book early and save: $100 per person off if you book and deposit by September 28, 2025.

These aren’t jam-packed itineraries. They’re relaxed, thoughtful trips designed to help you unwind and make lasting memories.

Community Spotlight

Manitoba Donates $100K in Support for Khalsa Aid’s Local and Global Relief Work

Source: Khalsa Aid

When wildfires swept through parts of Manitoba this summer, one of the first groups on the ground wasn’t a government agency, it was Khalsa Aid. They showed up with meals, supplies, and open arms, offering help without hesitation. It’s the kind of selfless service that quietly keeps communities going, especially when things feel uncertain.

Now, the Manitoba government is giving $100,000 to help Khalsa Aid continue that work, both here at home and across the world.

Here’s what the funding will support:

  • Emergency wildfire response in Manitoba, just like the work they did this summer

  • Flood relief in Punjab, reaching families in India and Pakistan affected by devastating storms

  • Support for refugee communities and humanitarian efforts worldwide

  • Recognition of local impact, especially in rural communities during times of crisis

Khalsa Aid is built on the Sikh principle of selfless service, and it shows. Whether they’re helping evacuees in northern Manitoba or flood victims halfway across the world, their work reflects the best of what communities can be when we look out for each other.

City Updates

New Agreement Prioritizes Local Workers for Four New School Builds

As mentioned earlier, the province is investing nearly $200 million into school repairs, upgrades, and new builds across Manitoba. Now, there’s a plan to make sure those schools are built by Manitobans themselves.

Through a new Manitoba Jobs Agreement (MJA), the province and Manitoba Building Trades have committed to prioritizing local workers for large public projects, starting with four new K-8 schools.

Here’s what the agreement means:

  • Manitoba workers get priority, with local contractors and crews leading the builds

  • Wage and safety standards are baked into every project

  • Apprenticeship hours are targeted to help train the next generation of skilled workers

  • Applies to all provincial projects over $50M, not just schools

It’s not just a boost for the trades. It’s a way to invest in families, neighbourhoods, and the long-term future of our communities.

New Extended-Hours Medical Clinic to Open at St. Boniface Hospital

Source: ReNew Canada

Starting today, a new walk-in clinic will open at St. Boniface Hospital, offering care for non-urgent issues every day of the year. It’s meant for the moments when you need to see someone, but not necessarily an ER doctor.

  • Walk-in care for minor concerns like colds, prescriptions, or everyday health needs

  • Open all year round, including weekends and holidays

  • Reduces wait times by easing pressure on emergency rooms

  • Part of a growing network of similar clinics at Misericordia, Grace, Victoria, and HSC

This kind of care won’t just shorten wait times; it brings peace of mind. Especially for parents, seniors, or anyone without a family doctor, having somewhere to go that feels close, simple, and supportive can make all the difference.

Community Digest

Newborns Born This Fall and Winter Now Eligible for RSV Protection

Bringing home a newborn in the middle of a Manitoba winter comes with a lot of joy, and a fair bit of worry, too. The cold season brings more than just snow. It also brings respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common virus that can be serious for infants. But a small change from the province is now offering families a little more peace of mind.

Manitoba is expanding its RSV protection program so that all infants born between October 1 and March 31 can now receive a one-time dose of an antibody that helps prevent RSV, no matter their risk level.

What this means for parents:

  • All newborns born during RSV season are now eligible for a single-dose preventive antibody

  • No extra eligibility criteria needed, just the season they’re born in

  • Dose can be given before hospital discharge, or later through public health

  • Helps prevent severe illness from a common virus that hits infants hardest

  • Replaces the older multi-dose option with something simpler and easier for families

This simple change could mean fewer late-night trips to the ER, and more nights spent at home: warm, safe, and together. It's one more way to help babies start strong and help new parents feel supported through the season.

If you know someone expecting a baby this fall or winter, be sure to share the link below.
Sometimes the smallest protections can offer the biggest sense of comfort.

Together with Special Olympics Manitoba!

Raise a Glass for a Great Cause at The Winnipeg Wine Festival!

The Winnipeg Wine Festival returns next week on September 26 & 27 at the RBC Convention Centre, and it’s the perfect chance to come together, enjoy incredible wines, and support over 2,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities across Manitoba.

Here’s what to know:

  • Hundreds of sparkling wines from around the world to sample

  • A choose-your-own tasting night: try what you like, skip what you don’t

  • Open to all: from wine newbies to seasoned sippers

  • And every ticket supports inclusive sports and joyful competition across Manitoba

Can’t make it? You can still help by donating to Special Olympics Manitoba or becoming a sponsor. Whether you’re a wine lover or just love a good night out, this is one of the most feel-good events of the season.

Sample hundreds of sparkling wines from around the world, discover your new favourite bottle, and know that every sip supports something bigger.

Advertise with us by emailing: [email protected]

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!

  • STEVE-O | 8PM, Sept 19 (Tickets)

    • Location: Burton Cummings Theatre

    • Description: Jackass Superstar STEVE-O will be live in Winnipeg June 27th at Burton Cummings Theatre on his brand new multimedia comedy tour “Crash and Burn!”.

  • UnCommon Pours 2025 | Natural Wines | 7PM, Sept 19 (Tickets)

    • Location: The Forks Market

    • Description: Join us for the third UnCommon Pours of the year as Wine Expert Ben Sigurdson uncorks the world of natural wines. Explore unique, low-intervention pours that let the grapes, and the terroir—shine.

  • Culture Days Manitoba | 7PM, Sept 19 - Oct 12 (FREE)

    • Location: Various location

    • Description: Culture Days Manitoba is a collaborative pan-Canadian volunteer movement that raises awareness, accessibility, participation and engagement of all Canadians in the arts and cultural life of their communities.

  • An Oddly Curious Market | Sept 19-21 (Tickets)

    • Location: Manitoba Museum

    • Description: A market for artists and makers of odd, curious, weird, dark, macabre, strange or unusual goods and art.

  • Two Asians One Cup | 8PM, Sept 19-20 ($)

    • Location: The Basement Comedy Lounge

    • Description: Bonggun Kim, a Korean comedian also known as Kimchi Daddy. Several of his videos have gone viral, and his popularity keeps growing every day. And Kansei Yasuda, a hilarious Japanese comedian who recently earned a Golden Ticket on Kill Tony, and is gaining fans fast with his ramen videos.

  • St. Amant Free the Spirit Festival | 10AM-2PM, Sept 20 (FREE)

    • Location: St.Amant

    • Description: The Free the Spirit Festival supports the St.Amant Foundation, offering an opportunity to support and celebrate diversity within the community. This inclusive event has activities for all abilities, including the 2k Walk (or Roll) and the 5k Run.

  • The Alan Jackson Experience | 7:30PM, Sept 20 (Tickets)

    • Location: Burton Cummings Theatre

    • Description: Direct from Nashville, The Alan Jackson Experience is an internationally recognized tribute performed by ISSA Entertainer of the Year award winner Aaron Halliday. The look, stage presence, and sound will have you believing you are at an actual Alan Jackson concert

  • BarkFest The Ultimutt Dog Party! | 10AM-5PM, Sept 20-21 (Tickets)

    • Location: Red River Exhibition Park

    • Description: Join dog lovers & their furry friends for BarkFest The Ultimutt Dog Party! A weekend-long festival of fun celebrating everything DOGS! Markets, entertainment and more!

  • Harte Trail Studio Art Tour | 10AM-4PM, Sept 20-21 (FREE)

    • Location: Multiple Locations

    • Description: This is your quest to find treasures at the Harte Trail Studio Art Tour. Explore the creativity of 20 curated artists in their own studios—an experience like no other.

  • Oktoberfest Street Party | Sept 20-21 (FREE/More Info)

    • Location: Devil May Care Brewing

    • Description: This year, we’re hosting a two-day celebration marking the biggest day in the beer calendar, featuring German-style beers by DMC (some old favorites and some new goodies) in an outdoor Biergarten on Fort St. We’ll have live music by The Pyramid and traditional German tunes to entertain your ears.

  • Winnipeg Jets vs. Minnesota Wild Pre-season | 4PM, Sept 21 ($)

    • Location: Canada Life Centre

Exciting Events: September 17th & 18th

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

Sports🏒

  • Live Horse Racing | 7:30PM, Sept 17 (FREE)

    • Location: Assiniboia Downs

    • Description: To the Downs! Experience the thrill of watching and wagering on horse racing at Assiniboia Downs. Horse racing, 140 VLTs and fabulous dining - it’s fun you can bet on!

Community Fun🎆

  • Corn Maze | Sept 17 - Nov 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.

  • Sunset Goose Flights | 5:30PM-8PM, Sept 17-21 (Tickets)

    • Location: FortWhyte Alive

    • Description: Take in the sounds of the season and watch the sky come to life as thousands of geese land after sunset in this breathtaking autumn ritual.

  • Downtown Farmers' Market | 10AM-2PM, Sept 18 (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.

Performances🎭

  • MAMMA MIA: An Abba Love Story | Sept 17 - Oct 11 ($)

    • 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.

  • JOB The Play | Sept 17-21 ($)

    • Location: Winnipeg Jewish Theatre

    • Description: A razor-sharp psychological thriller about ambition, burnout, and the digital forces shaping our lives. From Broadway to Berney, this gripping two-hander marks the season’s electrifying start. Max Wolf Friedlich is a Jewish American playwright who made his Broadway debut in 2024 with JOB.

  • African Movie Festival | 10AM-2:30PM, Sept 17-21 (Tickets)

    • Location: Winnipeg Art Gallery—Qaumajuq

    • Description: The African Movie Festival in Manitoba is the premier event celebrating the best of African cinema! As we showcase the finest films from across the African continent, as well as from Africans in Canada, the USA, Europe, and beyond.

  • MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL 2 - Cruising through the Change | 7PM,

    Sept 18 (Tickets)

    • Location: Club Regent Event Centre

    • Description: Menopause The Musical is a groundbreaking celebration of women who are on the brink of, in the middle of, or have survived The Change.

Special Events/Comedy🥂

  • Kevin Bridges | 7:3OPM, Sept 17 (Tickets)

    • Location: Burton Cummings Theatre

    • Description: Bridges has performed to sold-out crowds across Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and the Middle East. Known for his observational humour and effortless delivery, his shows are a masterclass in stand-up.

  • Reel Pride Film Festival 2025 | Sept 17-21 (Tickets)

    • Location: Gas Station Arts Centre & Canadian Museum for Human Rights

    • Description: Reel Pride turns forty in 2025, making it one of the longest serving queer film Festivals in North Armerica! Films from around the world showcase the experience of being queer in a variety of cultures, including films from the Philippines, Iceland, Canada, France, and more!

  • Dino Archie | Sept 17-20 ($)

    • Location: Rumor's Restaurant and Comedy Club

    • Description: Dino Archie is a touring stand-up comedian. The Fresno native cut his teeth between Los Angeles, and Vancouver Canada performing stand up full time.

  • Astronomy Night | 7PM-9PM, Sept 18 (Tickets)

    • Location: Oak Hammock Marsh

    • Description: Explore the night sky as we resume our monthly public astronomy nights

  • O.G.I. (The Only Good Indian) | Sept 18-20 (Tickets)

    • Location: The Colin Jackson Studio Theatre

    • Description: The Only Good Indian is part lecture, part meditation, and part threat. Or maybe a sacrifice.

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].