Victorian Christmas at Dalnavert Museum

Get into the holiday spirit this December at Dalnavert Museum! Join Laurie McDougall of Velvetleaf Beadworks for a Beaded Wreath Earring Workshop on November 29. On weekends starting December 4, join Deck the Halls of Dalnavert: A Victorian Christmas Tour to explore how Victorian families celebrated Christmas, discover the origins of modern traditions and learn about the daring game of snapdragon. From December 17 to 21, beloved radio host Ron Robinson brings Dickens’ classic to life with his performance of A Christmas Carol, a Dalnavert tradition for over a decade. Finally, on December 21, celebrate the winter solstice with Laurie McDougall in a Pay-what-You-Can Solstice Crafting Circle.

Experience Holiday Wonder with Elf - The Musical

Catch the modern holiday classic Elf – The Musical at the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre, running from November 25 to December 28, 2025. Join Buddy on a magical journey as he goes from North pole Elf to New York Elf in search of his real father. Unphased by the human world, Buddy sings and dances his way through town and into the hearts of many this Christmas.

Choo Choo for Cheer

Get ready for the arrival of the CP Holiday Train 2025 coming to select stops across Manitoba! The enchanting Canadian Pacific Christmas train is set to bring festive joy with live events at every stop. Adorned with holiday lights and decorations, the train will host complimentary half-hour concerts.

The CP Holiday Train also gives back to the community on it's journey by raising funds and accepting donations for local food programs like Winnipeg Harvest.

Here's the Manitoba CP Holiday Train schedule:

December 3, 2025

7:00 – 7:30 pm: Whitemouth at Railway Avenue across from the Whitemouth Hotel.
9:15 – 9:45 pm: Winnipeg at Grade Crossing on Panet Road and Molson Street.

December 5, 2025

11:30 am – 12:00 pm: Portage la Prairie at 309 1st Street NW.
2:30 pm – 3:00 pm: Neepawa at Railway Street between Mountain Ave & Currie Ave.
4:00 pm – 4:30 pm: Minnedosa at 30 2nd Ave NW.

Last stop is around 5:30 pm – 6:00 pm: Shoal Lake, North Railway Ave.

Memories at the Children's Museum

Experience a festive Winnipeg tradition that spans generations! The magic of Eaton's Fairytale Vignettes is on display from November 15, 2025 to January 4, 2026, at the Manitoba Children’s Museum. The collection has been meticulously restored from the ninth-floor annex of the historic Eaton’s downtown store. The timeless tales include the likes of Cinderella, Humpty Dumpty, Three Blind Mice and more. It’s a nostalgic journey that promises joy and fascination.

Admission is complimentary with general museum entry, with guided tours available on Saturdays and Sundays, for $7.00 (plus GST) per person.

Walk in a Winter Wonderland

Every holiday season, the Manitoba Agricultural Museum in Austin transforms into an enchanting Winter Wonderland. Head to the museum on the weekends of December 5 to 7, from 5:00 to 8:00 pm and December 12 to 14, from 5:00 to 8:00 pm, to experience the magic with sleigh rides, games, crafts, hot chocolate, bonfires and more. In the Homesteader's Village, 20 structures dating back to 1879 will whisk you away to a bygone era. The wonderland is $5.00 per person and ages 5 and under get in free.

A Drive-Through a Lightshow Spectacular

An annual Christmas tradition cherished by Manitobans, the Canad Inns Winter Wonderland is back for another year, adorned with over a million lights spread across various themed areas. Experience the brilliance of these light displays from the warmth of your car as you navigate the 2.5 km route through the scenic Red River Exhibition Park, with over 40 NEW light displays and additional surprises. This year's Winter Wonderland runs from November 28, 2025 to January 3, 2026 (Closed on December 25).

Feel the Festive Spirit

Head to FortWhyte Alive and immerse yourself in the outdoors. Check out the event calendar to get your festive nature fix. Activities include the Wreath Making Workshop, After Hours Holiday Shopping Event, Nature Shop Holiday Weekend, Storytelling by the Fire and the Marshmallow Roast.

Be Charmed by a Holiday Classic

Experience a uniquely Canadian twist on the beloved holiday tale of the Nutcracker at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, December 19 to 23 and 26 to 27. Watch as young Clara's nutcracker transforms into a valiant soldier, defending her against the Mouse King's army, while majestic Mounties face off against mischievous Mice. Together, they journey through a dazzling winter wonderland filled with dancing snowflakes and adorable polar bears, ultimately arriving at the court of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Tickets start at $40.00.

Explore the Buzz of the Lights

Explore the enchanting world of holiday lights at the Manitoba Electrical Museum & Education Centre's annual exhibit, Watt a Season, running from November 22, 2025 to January 10, 2026. All That Glows takes you on a captivating journey through the evolution of festive lighting. Learn about the rich history of Christmas lighting and decorations, tracing their revolutionary path since the 1880s. With a distinct local focus, the exhibition highlights the electronic innovations that have shaped the holiday traditions found in Manitoba. Closed December 24 to 26 and January 31 to 1.

Feel the Magic of The Village

This quaint outdoor market will make you feel like you're starring in your own Hallmark movie! The Village at Pineridge Hollow is located just 30 minutes from central Winnipeg on the edge of Birds Hill Provincial Park. Stroll through the outdoor plaza and step into unique shops like Teekca's Boutique and The Faded Barn, then grab a bite to eat a The Village Square or in the Pineridge Village restaurant. From November 14, 2025 to January 4, 2026, Holidays at the Hollow will warm your heart with bonfires, gourmet hot chocolate, photo ops, specialty markets and more. For the creatives and makers, there are a variety of workshops throughout the season including wreath making workshops and cookie decorating.

Upgrade your Santa Pictures

Celebrate the holidays in Manitoba with the merry and bright tradition of Santa Claus parades and appearances. These festive events bring communities together, offering a magical spectacle with Santa's arrival, beautiful decorations, lively performances and yummy treats.

Selkirk: November 29
Portage la Prairie: December 5
Winnipeg Beach: December 6
Winkler: November 28 to 29 and December 5 to 6, 12 to 13

Walk Beneath the Twinkling Lights

The Assiniboine Park is one of the best spots in Winnipeg to feel some holiday cheer. The Zoo Lights Festival features thousands of light installations to dazzle you from November 21, 2025 to January 1, 2026. This year’s festival includes even more light up displays, games, galleries and performances from Santa and other holiday characters. Closed November 24 to 27; December 1 to 2, 8 to 9, 15 to 16, 24 to 25. Save 50% on all tickets purchased for November event dates.

Legislative Building Holiday Open House

Join Premier Wab Kinew and members of the legislative assembly in celebrating the holidays at the 2025 Annual Holiday Open House. All are welcome to join this free celebration at the Legislative building December 6, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm. The event promises music, food and festive cheer. Those in attendance are asked to bring non-perishable food items in support of the Christmas Cheer Board of Winnipeg.