Hey Winnipeggers!

Wow, we’re blown away. Over 150 of you voted “yes” in Monday’s poll about the Digest Card, and the feedback has been incredible! So many of you are calling it the perfect stocking stuffer or asking if you can grab multiples (yes, you can!). We’re honestly starting to think we might sell out just through the newsletter—and it might not even make it to social media!

So if you’re interested, be sure to keep an eye out for more info on the Digest Card in the next two weeks!

In today's edition:

• Police Launches Holiday Checkstop Program

• Manitoba Opens Up Trade Office in Washington

• Record Tourism in Manitoba

• Multiple events this week & more!

— Jas Singh

News

Police Launches Holiday Checkstop Program

The holiday season is in full swing. And let’s be honest, maybe we’ll indulge in a glass (or two) of something festive. Nothing wrong with that! But when it’s time to head home, safety has to come first.

That’s why the RCMP and Winnipeg Police are back with the 2024 Festive Season Checkstop Program. It’s all about keeping our roads safe and making sure everyone gets home for the holidays.

Details:

• More checkstops: Police will be out across Winnipeg and Manitoba, targeting impaired driving.

• Alcohol screenings: Every driver stopped in Winnipeg will need to provide a breath sample.

• Drug detection: Officers are equipped to spot drivers under the influence of drugs, like cannabis or cocaine as well.

The message is simple: plan ahead.

• Call a cab or Uber.

• Hop on a bus.

• Use Operation Red Nose.

• Or, make sure you’ve got a sober driver lined up.

Let’s keep the holidays safe and fun for everyone!

Manitoba Opens Up Trade Office in Washington

With all eyes on the U.S. after their recent election and a new president settling in, Manitoba’s making its own move south of the border. Next year, the province will open a trade office in Washington, D.C. It’s about keeping Manitoba’s economy strong and making sure we’re part of the big conversations.

Premier Wab Kinew says this office will strengthen trade ties with key states like Minnesota and Texas while showcasing what Manitoba has to offer.

Here’s why it matters:

• More jobs: Building stronger trade relationships means more opportunities here at home.

• Attracting investments: A direct link to U.S. industries could mean big growth for Manitoba.

This isn’t just another office—it’s Manitoba stepping up to protect jobs and grow opportunities. Big things ahead!

A message from Red River Exhibition Park!

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Winnipeg’s Winter Wonderland is Back!

With snow starting to settle in, now’s the perfect time to start getting into the holiday spirit. And there’s no better way to start than visiting the Canad Inns Winter Wonderland at Red River Exhibition Park. Tickets are already flying off the shelves, so get them while you can!

It’s Manitoba’s longest drive-thru light show, featuring over 1 million lights and 30+ brand-new displays along a cozy 2.5 km route. It’s a holiday tradition Winnipeggers keep coming back to every year!

Here’s what to look forward to:

• Weekend horse-drawn hayrides to add a festive touch.

• Sweet and savoury snacks like mini donuts and poutine to enjoy on the go.

• Photo stops to capture those holiday memories.

Running until January 4 (closed Dec 25), it’s the perfect way to spend an evening with family and friends. Don’t wait too long—tickets are selling fast, and you don’t want to miss it! Click below for all the details.

Charity of the Week:

All of them!

This week, Winnipeg charities need all of us. The Canada Post strike has made the giving season tougher, cutting off mail-in donations that many organizations rely on during the holidays.

Just as an example, as reported by CTV News, the Winnipeg Pet Rescue Shelter, usually receives over 70% of its yearly donations during this time. And without them, they’re struggling to keep up.

So, If you’re someone who regularly donates and haven’t been able to, please consider giving through these ways:

• Donate through their websites.

• Send funds via e-transfer.

• Drop off your donation in person.

And if you’re not a regular donor, this holiday season is a great time to start!

City Updates

Manitoba’s Commitment to HIV Prevention

HIV might not be something we talk about often, but in Manitoba, it’s a growing concern. The province has one of the highest rates in Canada, and the government is stepping up with over $8 million to improve prevention and care.

Here’s what they’re doing:

• Offering free access to HIV medications like PrEP and PEP, making treatment easier for those who need it.

• Supporting Indigenous-led care through programs like Ka Ni Kanichihk’s Sexual Wellness Lodge.

This is about breaking barriers, reducing stigma, and helping people get the care they need. There’s still a long way to go, but it’s a step in the right direction for the community.

Speeding Up Vacant Building Responses

You know those rundown buildings you pass and wonder, When is someone going to fix that? Well, Winnipeg’s finally doing something about it.

As reported by CBC News, the city just launched a team to respond to derelict building complaints in two days instead of the usual 20. These buildings aren’t just eyesores—they’re safety risks, with fires like the recent ones in the William Whyte neighborhood becoming a growing issue.

The new team, made up of by-law officers and inspectors, will act quickly to address unsafe conditions and contact property owners to secure and repair buildings. In just three weeks, they’ve already taken on 75 cases. The goal is to create safer neighborhoods and reduce the risk of fires. It’s a big job, but one that’s long overdue.

Community News

Historic Métis Treaty Signing

Big news for Manitoba’s Métis community! The Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) just signed Canada’s first self-governing treaty for the Métis.

This isn’t just paperwork—it’s a huge step forward for recognizing Métis rights and history. President David Chartrand called it a “turning point,” marking 154 years of work to correct past injustices.

What does this mean?

• The MMF is now officially the government of the Red River Métis.

• It also sets the stage for future negotiations on health, land, and other rights.

This treaty is about self-determination and moving forward together. A big win for Manitoba and Canada as a whole.

A New Dog Park is Coming

As reported by CTV News, Winnipeg is getting a new off-leash dog park at Whyte Ridge Community Centre.

The park will feature secure fencing, open spaces for running, seating, and trash bins. While it won’t have water stations or separate areas for big and small dogs, it’s still a much-needed addition for our little friends.

The city is asking for feedback through an online survey open until December 8. If you’ve got ideas, now’s your chance to share them!

Record Tourism Spending in Manitoba

Manitoba is quietly becoming a hot spot, and the numbers prove it. As reported by Winnipeg Sun, last year, over 10.4 million visitors came to the province, spending a record $1.82 billion.

Tourism isn’t just about polar bears and lakes (though, let’s be honest, those help). It’s also about boosting local businesses, creating jobs, and putting Manitoba on the map.

Here’s what’s exciting:

• Indigenous tourism is thriving, with 170 businesses now compared to 81 in 2019.

• Major events like the 2025 Grey Cup are expected to drive even more growth.

• With Travel Manitoba aiming for $2.5 billion in spending by 2030.

So, whether you’re hosting out-of-town friends or exploring the province yourself, every visit supports our community.

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!

• First Friday in The Exchange | 5-9PM, Dec 6 (Free)

  • Location: Multiple locations in the Exchange District

  • Description: On the 1st Friday of each month, Galleries, Artist-Run Centres, Studios, Shops + Museums stay open late at this free event.

• Pancakes and Planes | 10AM - 1PM, Dec 7 (More Info)

  • Location: The Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada

• Christmas in Space! A Holiday Cirque | 7:30PM, Dec 7 (Tickets)

  • Location: Burton Cummings Theatre

  • Description: A lineup of specialty acts and acrobats! Offers a thrilling journey through holiday magic like no other.

• Brunch with Santa at The Leaf | Mulitple times, Dec 8 (More Info)

  • Location: The Leaf, Event Hall, 2nd Floor

• Peg City Kindness Crew Inc. Christmas Craft Market | 10AM - 3PM, Dec 8 (More Info)

  • Location: Hilton Suites, Winnipeg

  • Note: Santa will also be there!

• Breakfast & Skating with Santa! | 9-11:30AM, Dec 8 (More Info)

  • Location: Gateway Recreation Centre, 1717 Gateway St

  • Description: Pancake breakfast, cookie decorating, face painting, craft session and skating with Santa!

• Emporium of Holiday Finds | 12-5PM, Dec 8 (More Info)

  • Location: 448 Burnell St

  • Description: Find all the wild, weird and wonderful gifts you've always been searching for from 30 local artists and artisans!

Exciting Events: Dec 4th & 5th

Music 🎵

• Joe Curtis | 6:30PM, Dec 4

  • Location: SMITH Restaurant (75 Forks Market Road)

• Marianas Trench Force of Nature Tour | 7:30PM, Dec 4 (Tickets)

  • Location: Burton Cummings Theatre

  • Description: Multi-platinum-selling Canadian pop-rock band!

• Dale Brown | 8:30PM, Dec 4 (Tickets)

  • Location: Times Change(d) High & Lonesome Club (234 Main Street)

• Great Canadian Road Trip Christmas | 7PM, Dec 5 (Tickets)

  • Location: Club Regent Event Centre

  • Description: A special Christmas show with 3 All-Star Canadian Country Artists. (Doc Walker, Michelle Wright & Jason McCoy)

• Beaglemania! | 7:30PM, Dec 5 ($15)

  • Location: Royal Albert Arms

  • Performers: Asteroïds / The Fun Ones / Gramma Lamma

Family Fun🎆

• Watt a Season | Dec 4 - Jan 11 (More Info)

  • Location: Manitoba Electrical Museum (680 Harrow St)

• Zoo Lights | Dec 4 - Jan 5 (Tickets)

  • Location: Assiniboine Park Zoo

  • Description: Wander through a winter wonderland and enjoy stunning light displays, tasty treats, and endless joy and cheer.

• Canad Inns Winter Wonderland | Dec 4 - Jan 4 (Tickets)

  • Location: Red River Exhibition- Exhibition Place

  • Description: Manitoba’s largest drive-thru light show.

• Let It Glow 2024 | 5-10PM, Dec 4-31 (More Info)

  • Location: Grant Memorial Church (877 Wilkes Ave)

  • Description: Drive through Grant Memorial Church, where you'll be treated to a dazzling show of lights, videos, and music that tells the story of Christmas.

• The Great Solar System Adventure – Planetarium Show | 3PM, Dec 4-6 (Tickets)

  • Location: Manitoba Museum

Special Events 🎨

• The Future of Vertical Farming in Manitoba | 7-8:45PM, Dec 4 (More Info)

  • Location: University of Manitoba - 130 Agriculture Building

  • Description: Energy requirements for vertical farming and examine some of the most efficient systems to make vertical farming worth the investment.

• Birdsong & Boughs: A Holiday Migration | 2-3:30PM, Dec 4 - Jan 12 (More Info)

  • Location: Assiniboine Park - The Leaf

  • Description: This display blends the vibrant beauty of holiday boughs with the soothing sounds of birds, inviting visitors to experience the season through nature’s migrations.

• Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre - Little Women | Dec 4 - Dec 14 (Tickets)

  • Location: John Hirsch Main Stage (174 Market Ave)

  • Description: In 1860s Massachusetts, Jo March and her sisters struggle to make ends meet while their father is away serving in the Civil War.

• Ending Homelessness Together 2024 | Dec 4-5 (More Info)

  • Location: WAG-Qaumajuq and the Delta Hotels

• Chris Griffin Comedy | Dec 4-7 (Tickets)

  • Location: Rumor's Restaurant and Comedy Club

  • Description: An award-winning comedian known for his dynamic storytelling & international performances.

CHEERS!

Thanks for reading The Winnipeg Digest! I’ll see you again on Friday!

P.S. Want to sponsor our newsletter? Email us at [email protected].