150 Things to do in Manitoba in 2017

Posted December 31, 2016 | Author Travel Manitoba

Have you heard ? The biggest blockbuster of 2017 is going to be Canada’s 150th birthday! Join us this year in celebrating Canada’s big 1-5-0 all year long. Explore something new. Do something you’ve never done before. Make it an action packed adventure, a sweeping epic or a heartfelt romance with your province in 2017–and to get you started, we’ve paired your favourite movie genre with 150 amazing things to do in Manitoba. Make this your year to get in on the action, the history, and the beauty that is this place where Canada’s heart beats.

Header image by Wander the Map

Planet Earth Enthusiasts

The Narcisse Snake Dens are actually on Planet Earth! And you can go see them! Manitoba has some of the coolest wildlife activities in the world. Want to kayak with beluga whales? We have that. How about a bison safari? Oh yeah, we have that too. You can hike for days in the Canadian Shield or come face-to-face with a polar bear. Pack a bag, grab some friends and go exploring.

1. Canoe Tulabi Falls – Nopiming Provincial Park

May – September

Enjoy the view of Tulabi Falls on the beach, canoeing, fishing or exploring many crystal clear lakes in the area. This natural park has two relaxing canoe routes.

2. Get wild on a Bison Safari – Winnipeg

May- September

Get up-close with bison at FortWhyte Alive this year. These prairie giants are massive and provide a special Manitoba experience. Get your camera ready for a bison selfie!

3. Hike the Hecla Village Self-Guiding Trail – Hecla

Year-Round

Take a look back into the island’s past on this trail. The second ice house displays tools the settlers on Hecla Island used on a daily basis.

4. Explore the Clearwater Lake Caves – Clearwater Lake Provincial Park

May-October

The self-guiding trail to the caves gives a gorgeous view of Clearwater Lake. The water is as transparent as a swimming pool and always tempting for a dip in the summer.

5. Hike Hunt Lake Trail – West Hawk Lake

Looking for a little more of a challenge? The Hunt Lake Trail is 13 km of steep trails with a dazzling view as a reward.

6. Glamp in oTENTiks – Riding Mountain National Park

Year-Round

After a day of exploring the wildlife in the park, come back to a charming A-frame cabin equipped with three beds, a deck and a wood stove. Experience the benefits of camping without the hassle of packing and unpacking the tent.

7. View Manitoba’s most amazing lake – Little Limestone Provincial Park

May – September

Sinkholes and caves aren’t the only thing to see at Little Limestone Provincial Park. This marl lake changes colour with the heat of the sun.

8. Explore Pisew Falls to Kwasitchewan Falls Hiking Trail – Pisew Falls Provincial Park

Kwasitchewan Falls is the highest waterfall in Manitoba. This hike is not for the unprepared. It is a difficult, rugged trail, but has many fulfilling rewards.

9. Trek the limestone cliffs – Steep Rock

May – September

The limestone cliffs in Steep Rock provide dazzling scenery. The rock formations, created by years of erosion, are one of the most photographed places in Manitoba.

10. Bird watch at Lee Lake

Year-Round

Originally established to help aid Manitoba’s goose populations, this Wildlife Management Area has become an ideal place to bird watch. With numerous wetlands in the area, this is hot spot for waterfowl.

11. Embrace the cold in Warming Huts – Winnipeg

January-March (weather dependent)

The Warming Huts come from an architecture competition on ice every year. The winning huts are displayed on the Red River Mutual Trail.

12. Start your engines at the Red River Co-op Speedway – St. Adolphe

May – October

Watch the tires spin at Red River Co-op Speedway – the largest oval track in central Canada.

13. Buzz around the French Bee Farm – Notre-Dames-de -Lourdes

May – October

Notre-Dames-de –Lourdes has a European style stemming from French and Swiss immigrants who first inhabited the town. The French Bee Farm is home to 600 operational beehives.

14. Rock the Swinging Bridge – Souris

Year-Round

The Swinging Bridge is Canada’s longest historic suspension bridge at 184 metres. You will know you are close when you see peacocks roaming the area.

15. Paddle through Caddy Lake Tunnels – Caddy Lake

May – October

Caddy Lake is surrounded with mature trees and it is not uncommon to see wildlife on any canoe trip. Caddy Lake connects to North Cross Lake and South Cross Lake through granite tunnels and offers both short and weekend canoeing options.

16. Trek through Spruce Woods Spirit Sands – Spruce Woods Provincial Park

May – October

The Spirit Sands is one of Manitoba’s most unusual trails. Manitoba’s only sand dunes lead to the Devil’s PunchBowl – a pool of blue/green water surrounded by greenery.

17. Test your patience at Pelican Lake Ice Fishing Derby – Ninette

March 4

Join one of Manitoba’s popular ice fishing derbies for a day filled with fun, fishing, friends and food. Largest catch wins!

18. Catch snakes at Narcisse Snake Dens – Narcisse

April/May or August/September

Manitoba is the best place to see the emergence of 150,000 red-sided garter snakes for mating and feeding rituals. You are more than welcome to pick them up, but be gentle!

Warning: the snakes use poop as self defense.

19. Have a bird in the hand at Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive Centre – Stonewall

June – September

Band birds at Oak Hammock Marsh to help researchers learn about wild birds. Feel like Snow White as you release the banded song bird back into the wild.

20. Fly Fish in the Parkland region – West Goose Lake

Spring and Fall

Catch brown trout, rainbow trout, splake, tiger trout, brook trout and basically a lot of trout in Manitoba’s Parkland region.

21. Row, row, row your Dragon Boat – Winnipeg

September 8-10

The Manitoba Dragon Boat Festival paddles for children living with cancer in Manitoba. Teams of 22 row their way to the finish line on the Red River.

22. Watch plants eat bugs at Brokenhead Wetland Ecological Reserve – Brokenhead Ojibway Nation

May-November

The Brokenhead Wetland complex is 1240 hectares of lush green space has and it home to 23 species of provincially rare and uncommon plants, including ten carnivorous, insect-eating, plants.

23. Relax at one of the top 10 beaches in Canada – Lake Winnipeg

June – September

Grand Beach is made up of fine white sand and is the perfect destination for families, couples, or any solo sun worshipper.

Family-Friendly Features

Family-friendly activities should actually be fun for the whole family. Parents, we found the activities you will actually want to take your kids to. Don’t act like you don’t want to go to the LEGO exhibit at the Science Gallery or finally check out the CP Holiday Train you say you will see every year.

24. Jig along at the Asham Stomperfest

September 1, 2, 3

The 14th Annual Asham Stomperfest is held in Reedy Creek/Kinosota, featuring the World Jigging Competition.

25. CP Holiday Train

November – Dates TBA

Bring your dancing shoes and a donation to the CP Holiday Train. The train stops at several places across Manitoba and collects donations during the live shows.

26. Culture Days

September 29, 30 and October 1

Get creative at one of the many activities put on by organization across the province to encourage people to discover, play, create, learn and everything in between at Manitoba’s Culture Days.

27. Try to resist buying everything at local art & craft shows – Winnipeg

Year-Round

Pop-up shops, Scattered Seeds, Signatures, Third and Bird, Lucky Girl pop-up and many more craft shows are home to beautiful designs, inventive solutions and delicious snacks from well-known entrepreneurs in Manitoba.

28. Visit the Manitoba Museum – Winnipeg

Year-Round

The kids aren’t going to want to leave the Planetarium shows and over 100 hands-on exhibits in the Science Gallery – including a massive LEGO exhibit. They might even learn something.

29. Journey to Churchill at Assiniboine Park Zoo – Winnipeg

Year-Round

The Gateway to the Arctic holds an underwater viewing tunnel for visitors to see polar bears and seals swim and play up-close.

30. Spock-out at Central Canada Comic Con

Date TBA

With almost 50,000 visitors, Comic Con has activities from Quidditch to Zombies to Star Trek. Come dressed as your favourite character to win the costume contest.

31. See stripes at the Westwood Ranch Garden Centre – Elkhorn

Year-Round

Lemurs and zebras and walaroos, oh my! The exotic animal ranch has animals from all over the world.

32. Ssssslip into the Westman Reptile Gardens – Brandon

Year-Round

Spiders and snakes and slippery things too, these reptile gardens have something for you!

33. Bring your bear to the Teddy Bears’ Picnic – Winnipeg

Date TBA

Stuffed bears need a check-up too! Assiniboine Park hosts over 30 tents with positive messages and fun activities about health and safety from Dr. Goodbear.

34. Pet alpacas at Aurora Farm – St. Norbert

Year-Round

Aurora Farm focuses on having happy chickens, alpacas, horses, cats, goats, cows, dogs and a donkey. They encourage renewable energy, compost, creativity, and have workshops about natural living skills.

35. Enjoy Boardwalk Days – Winnipeg Beach

July

Live music, arts & crafts vendors, midway surprises, parade, fireworks, and a pancake breakfast are some of the things to look forward to on the charming boardwalk at Winnipeg Beach.

36. Skate through the Power Smart Waterfall of Lights – Brandon

December – February

Surrounded by music and sparkling lights, the Waterfall of lights is the perfect place to embrace the holiday season with a free skate.

37. Have your own night at the museum – Winnipeg

Find out if the exhibits really come to life at night! MuZZZeum sleepovers are a kids’ dream come true. Run around the dark with flashlights, watch movies in the Planetarium and snack on pizza.

38. Curl for the Ironman Outdoor Bonspiel – Winnipeg

February 3 – 5

Join the largest outdoor curling bonspiel in Canada on the Red River Mutual Trail. This non-for-profit event benefits the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

39. Hop to Frog Follies – St-Pierre-Jolys

July 13-16

Celebrate the Francophone community by joining the frog hunt, watching the Canadian National Frog Jumping Championship, enjoying live music and delicious food!

40. Leash up your pooch for FidoFest – Winnipeg

February 19

FidoFest is a day of indoor and outdoor family fun. Grab a cup of hot chocolate, get a photo with your pooch and check out the live music, pop-up shops and more. It’s fun for dog lovers of all ages and in support of K9 Advocates Manitoba.

Foodie Flix

We know you watch something like Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, Somm, or Chef’s Table and think “wow, I seriously want to have something that delicious right now,” because we do too. But guess what? You can! Manitoba is home to loads of established chefs, fantastic restaurants and lively food festivals.

41. Book your spot for TableFor1200More – Winnipeg

May – date TBA

Dine at one of the world’s longest tables at TableFor1200More. Winnipeg chefs prepare a locally grown, organic meal for guests. This event showcases architecture, design and culinary arts in one of Winnipeg’s beautiful urban spaces that remains a surprise until the day of the event.

42. Indulge at the New Bothwell Wine and Cheese Festival – New Bothwell

June 3

Sample delicious Bothwell Cheese varieties expertly paired with wine from Banville & Jones Wine Co..

43. Get walking on the Feast on Foot Food Tours – Winnipeg

May – August

Explore the architecture in the Exchange District while sampling some of Winnipeg’s best locally-sourced and innovative dishes.

44. Honey Garlic and Maple Syrup Festival , eh!– Manitou

September 9

Get a taste of Canadian flavours at Manitou’s Honey Garlic and Maple Syrup Festival. Live music, crafts shows, cooking demos, Soap Box Derby, beverage gardens, and of course food samples and a gourmet buffet are some of the things to look forward to this year.

45. Follow Winnipeg Supper Club – Winnipeg

Every six weeks

If you like a little mystery with your meal, the Winnipeg Supper Club offers a surprise four-course meal paired with wine in an unknown location. An announcement over social media gives diners an opportunity to purchase tickets, only knowing the local chef for the evening. Hours before the event guests are emailed the location and time.

46. Grazing in the Barn – Winnipeg

January 21

Meet the farmers and learn exactly where your food comes from while you dine in a beautifully decorated barn. Local chef Ben Kramer uses locally sourced foods to cook a delicious multi-course meal. Grazing in the Field is also offered in September.

47. Visit a local brewery – Winnipeg

Year-Round

Half Pints Brewing Company, Little Brown Jug Brewing Company Ltd., and Torque Brewing have all recently opened new taprooms to try the local brews!

48. Get a sugar high at Jenna Rae Cakes – Winnipeg

Year-Round

Hit the sweet spot at Jenna Rae Cakes boutique bakery. This local, self-taught cake designer and her twin sister have been featured in Martha Stewart Weddings, Style Me Pretty, 100 Layer cake and many more. You will understand why after you try one of her amazing cookie sandwiches, brownies, or really anything on the menu!

49. Ease your chocolate craving at Mordens’ of Winnipeg – Winnipeg

Year-Round

This internationally known chocolate shop offers over 70 packaged and loose chocolates.

50. Go to Einfeld’s Bakery – Victoria Beach

May – October

A trip to Victoria Beach isn’t complete without a stop at Einfeld’s Bakery. The smell of the freshly-baked Irish bread will lure you in, but watch out for the cream-puffs.

51. Try the burgers at the Nite Hawk Cafe – West Hawk Lake

May-October, weekends from January -April

If you are passing through West Hawk Lake plan a pit stop at the Nite Hawk Cafe – the absolute best homemade burgers, wraps, and fries you will ever have!

52. Try organic chocolate at Constance Popp Chocolates – Winnipeg

Year-Round

Not only is this chocolate made from bean to bar in the shop, it’s organic, fair trade and delicious! There is no better place in Winnipeg to cure your chocolate cravings.

53. Test your taste buds at St. Adolphe Motor Inn – St. Adolphe

Year-Round

Can you handle the Widowmaker wings? The hottest wings in the province! If you can’t, they still have 65 other flavours to try like Balsamic Vinegar and Herb, Beer Cheese and Butter Chicken.

54. Walk, dine, and shop at Pineridge Hollow – Oakbank

Year-Round

Pineridge Hollow rests on six-acres of gardens, ponds, and flowers for you to explore year-round. The restaurant offers delicious home-cooked meals, and the gift shop will leave you wanting to redesign your own home with their beautiful, high-quality products.

55. Experience Enoteca – Winnipeg

Year-Round

Enoteca offers an inventive dining experience. The tapas-style menu gives you a chance to try everything, and trust me — you will want to try everything.

56. Try beer from all over the world at Flatlander’s Beer Festival – Winnipeg date TBA

This is your chance to sample over 240 beers in one location. Flatlander’s Beer Festival is in support of True North Youth Foundation. Do it for the kids!

57. Forage berries in Manitoba

June – September/October

Nothing tastes as good as freshly picked berries in the summer. Cherries, saskatoon berries, strawberries, currants, raspberries, gooseberries, plums, apples, and haskap can all be found fresh in Manitoba. Check out any of our 37 U-Pick fruit farms!

58. Expand your palette Winnipeg Wine Festival – Winnipeg

Date TBA

The Wines of Canada is this year’s theme for the Winnipeg Wine Festival. Cheers to Canada’s 150th birthday!

59. Tap In to our downtown restaurants– Winnipeg

June – September

Take a walking tour of Winnipeg’s downtown area and sample beers and apps from four restaurants.

60. You have got to try RAW:almond – Winnipeg

January 20 – February 13

The only river pop-up restaurant in the world! Winnipeg chefs create delicious meals on the river at the heart of our city — The Forks. Come experience the deep freeze the way we do. With friends, food, and drinks!

61. RAW:churchill might be the coolest experience of your life

March 3-11

Experience the northern lights in the most amazing way. A 300-year-old stone fort just outside Churchill hosts a pop-up restaurant serving a world-class meal crafted by one of Canada’s top chefs.

62. The Breakfast Club, no detention required – Winnipeg

June – October

Wake up with a walking tour and four different breakfast samples in Winnipeg’s downtown area.

63. Downtown Tours: Patio Crawl – Winnipeg

July and August

Sip your way through a few of Winnipeg’s patios. Enjoy friends and apps on one of Winnipeg’s walking food tours.

64. Try the waffle cone at Lakehouse Boutique Hotel and Ice Cream Shop – Wasagaming

The newly renovated Lakehouse Ice Cream Shop has a charming rustic log cabin feel, and of course, a lot of choices for ice cream lovers! The hot fudge sundae is a must.

65. Eat your way through Manyfest – Winnipeg

September 8-10

Food truck wars, beer gardens, live music, markets, a movie in the park and MANY more activities.

66. Meet meat at Boucheé Boucher – Winnipeg

Half restaurant half butcher shop, Boucheé Boucher is the perfect spot to grab a drink and beef carpaccio, talk to the butcher about how to prepare lamb shanks, and load up your picnic basket.

67. Try the Goog at Bridge Drive-In – Winnipeg

March – October

Known as the “BDI” to locals, it is one of the best date and family spots from March to October. Enjoy 11 flavours of soft-serve ice cream, sundaes and classic creations alongside the Red River.

History Buffs

Manitoba has a vibrant past. It was the final resting place for Bruce the mosasaur, a meeting place for fur trade, home to hockey greats and even has stories of hidden codes in our Legislature Building. Get out and marvel at the stories of Manitoba’s history.

68. See marine reptile fossils at the Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre – Morden

Year-Round

Meet Bruce, a 43-foot Tylosaurs and his 30-foot pal, Suzy. They offer guided museum tours and fossil dig adventure tours during the summer for a chance to unearth 80-million year old aquasaur fossils!

69. Discover the history behind your rights at Canadian Museum for Human Rights – Winnipeg

Year-Round

Dedicated to celebration, evolution and the future of human rights, this museum is a must-see in Winnipeg. Not only will the displays inspire you, but they reside inside a beautiful, inclusive, structure designed by a world-renowned architect.

70. Learn about local heritage sites at Doors Open Winnipeg – Winnipeg

May 27&28

Heritage Winnipeg organizes many events throughout the year to educate people on the history of beautiful, local buildings. Doors Open Winnipeg is a free tour of the city’s best hidden gems and interesting stories.

71. Search for the Manitoba sea monster, Manipogo – Manipogo Provincial Park

Year-Round

A serpent-like sea monster has allegedly been roaming Lake Manitoba since 1908. It is said to be between 12 – 50 feet long, but nobody has managed to snap a photo…

72. Ghost hunt in room 202 at the Fort Garry Hotel – Winnipeg

Year-Round

Employees and guests have reported seeing an apparition of a crying woman and blood trickling down the walls in room 202. Rumour states the woman hanged herself after hearing of her husband’s death .

73. Find one of the world’s most-wanted birds – Riding Mountain National Park

Year-Round

The Great Grey Owl, a rare species, is seen in Manitoba more than any place in Canada. It is number six on the list of fifty most-wanted birds on the continent

74. Discover secrets on the Hermetic Tour of the Manitoba Legislative Building – Winnipeg

April – October

Unearth the secrets of architectural wonder in Manitoba’s Legislature Building. Decode the hieroglyphics, the presence of a sphinx, the freemasonic symbols, and the secrets hidden in plain sight.

75. Look for ghosts and ghouls during Winnipeg Ghost Walk – Winnipeg

October

Winnipeg is known for its ghost stories. Join the Winnipeg Ghost walk to learn where these tales come from and see the buildings that still seem to be haunted.

76. Unveil your future. Get your tea leaves read at McLeod House Tea Room – Stonewall

Year-Round

In a 100 year old house, enjoy tea, pastries and a tea cup reading during high tea.

77. Travel back in time on Pioneer Days – Steinbach

August

Celebrate a day in the life of a pioneer with steam power, milling, horse shows, a petting zoo, concerts, food and threshing demonstrations.

78. Learn how money is made at the Royal Canadian Mint – Winnipeg

Year-Round

See how the Mint creates Canada’s coins in its state-of-the-art facility and take a peek at the collector coins in the gift shop.

79. Go Home For The Holidays and visit the House & Heritage Tour – Selkirk

November

Selkirk homes and heritage sites are beautifully decorated for the Christmas season. Tour these properties and shop the fine art, crafts and artisans’ wares along the way.

80. See our superstars at the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame – Winnipeg

Year-Round

Honour the athletes who have made their mark on Manitoba. See their story preserved in the Hall of Fame displays.

81. See the lifestyle of a prairie community at Fort la Reine Museum – Portage la Praire

Year-Round

Tour 28 magnificent heritage sites. Discover what it was like in the days of fur trade and appreciate the comforts of modern life.

82. Visit the wreck of MV Ithaca – Churchill

Summer

During low tide you can get close to the mysterious wreck. Nobody is quite sure how the MV Ithaca got there. Stories say a broken rudder or maybe a windy night carried it off course, but its permanent home is in Churchill.

83. Hitch a ride from the Winnipeg Trolley Company – Winnipeg

Spring/Summer

Hop aboard Winnipeg’s only heritage-style vehicle to learn about Winnipeg’s history, districts and fun facts.

84. Test your skills at the Manitoba’s Trappers’ Festival – The Pas

February 15-19

This is a jam-packed five days of Manitoba competitions. Try sleigh pulling, log throwing, pole climbing, fish frying, bannock making, rat skinning, fish filleting, tea boiling, and of course trap setting at Manitoba’s Trappers’ Festival.

85. Choo Choo Choose the Prairie Dog Central Railway

April – September

Ride in the caboose of this vintage locomotive to four historic stations. Take the rail to the Prime Meridian Trail for a hike on a 10km heritage trail.

86. Explore the past on a Downtown Flashback – Winnipeg

June- September

Walk Winnipeg’s downtown with a Viewmaster to see what the city used to look like. Learn the stories about how Winnipeg became what it is today.

87. See what gave Winnipeg it’s burst of energy at Pinawa Dam – Pinawa Dam Provincial Heritage Park

Year-Round

Visit Manitoba’s first hydro-electric generating station, responsible for the rapid growth of Winnipeg. While you are there, hike the Pinawa self-guiding trail.

Musical Numbers

Not only are Manitoba’s artists talented and amazing, but we have incredible venues to back them up. You can find a live show going on every day of the week, but here are a few shows you can’t miss this year.

88. Stream WPG – Winnipeg

January 7

A free live-streaming concert series dedicated to elevating Winnipeg’s R&B, hip-hip and experimental emerging musicians. Stream WPG is focused on making live music available to everyone by hosting concerts in fully accessible and safe environments.

89. Party at The Cube stage in Old Market Square – Winnipeg

The Cube is a year-round interactive art fixture for many regular performances and annual festivals. Enjoy live music, theatre and movie screenings, in the Exchange District.

90. Tour the world at Folklorama – Winnipeg

August 6-19

Taste the food, watch the dance, hear the music and learn about the culture of different countries at Folklorama. Pavilions are welcome to join the longest multicultural festival in the world.

91. Hé Ho! Let’s go to Festival du Voyageur – Winnipeg

February 12-21

Western Canada’s largest winter festival celebrates with music, dancing, food, snow sculptures and of course, Caribou – a wine and rye spirit.

92. Boot scootin’ boogie to Dauphin’s Countryfest – Dauphin

June 29 – July 2

This honky tonk is Canada’s longest running country music festival that has featured headliners including Keith Urban, Luke Bryan, Johnny Reid and Doc Walker. Stay tuned for this year’s line-up.

93. Experience Rainbow Stage – Winnipeg

April, June, July, August

Musical theatre is a staple at this open-air theatre. Reviving classic acts and bringing in new productions, Rainbow Stage is a staple for any theatre lover. This year Rainbow Stage is performing Rodgers and Hammerstein’s South Pacific, Little Shop of Horrors, and Mamma Mia!.

94. Get lost in exceptional music at Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra – Winnipeg

Year- Round

As one of Canada’s most innovative orchestras, the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra has shows playing year- round. This year, Papa Haydn, Angela Hewitt plays Ravel, and Beethoven Lives Upstairs are a few of the can’t miss performances.

95. Taste what you hear at Interstellar Rodeo – Winnipeg

August 18-20

The heart of our city – The Forks – hosts the only festival that pairs live music with wine.

96. Get as taste of traditions at Brandon’s Winter Festival – Brandon

This winter festival is a free chance to celebrate different cultures with food, music, dress and dancing.

97. Find your new favourite artist at The HUB – bi-weekly rendezvous

The Hub invites people to join the cultural movement by attending full nights of art and experiences in different locations across the city.

98. Lose yourself at Winnipeg Folk Festival – Birds Hill Provincial Park

July 6-9

Nine stages and unlimited amounts of fun and experiences sum up the Winnipeg Folk Festival. Shop, eat, explore, play games, play or listen to music, or find some interesting activities going on in the campground at this year’s Folk Fest.

99. Good vibes only at Rainbow Trout Festival – St. Malo

Summer – Date TBA

Starting as a backwoods bush party, the Rainbow Trout Festival has morphed into a three-day indie music fest with food, friends, fishing and swimming. This festival steadily grows every year.

100. Groove to the music at TD Winnipeg International Jazz Festival – Winnipeg

June 15-25

Stages across the city host powerful jazz artists to enjoy over food and drinks at indoor and outdoor venues.

101. Find Aboriginal Day Live at The Forks, or streamed live – Winnipeg

Summer – Date TBA

The most accomplished Indigenous musicians and artists come together to celebrate Canada’s largest celebration of National Aboriginal Day.

102. Laugh, cry, experience the Park Theatre – Winnipeg

The Park Theatre hosts over 300 events per year. Theatre, film, music and various artist performances has earned the Park Theatre the Venue of the Year award in 2014.

Feel Good Favourites

Art and culture, music, movies, theatre and the great outdoors are good for the soul. These local options will leave you feeling inspired and refreshed.

103. First Fridays in the Exchange – Winnipeg

First Friday of every month

The Exchange District celebrates the first Friday of every month by putting on art shows, displaying local products, drinking and drawing while dining, and putting together cool experiences for whoever wants to join.

104. Go to the Lyric Theatre – Winnipeg summer

Located in one of Winnipeg’s well-known parks, the Lyric Theatre shows movies, ballet, and music performances for all ages.

105. Watch outstanding performances from the Royal Winnipeg Ballet – Winnipeg

Year-Round

The Royal Winnipeg Ballet is Canada’s longest running ballet company in North America, and known as Canada’s premiere ballet company. Love Lies Bleeding, Vespers, and Spotlight are some of the features performances in 2017.

106. Catch Shakespeare in the Ruins – St. Norbert

May-June

Shakespeare in the Ruins performs in outdoor, non-traditional settings. Check out one of the shows at the Trappist Monastery Ruins.

107. Visit artist-run galleries – Winnipeg , Flin Flon, Gimli, Morden

Winnipeg has a fantastic art scene and a lot of talented individuals. Some of our favourite artist run galleries are: Aceartinc, Urban Shaman, NorVA Centre, Gimli Art Club and Pembina Hills Arts Council.

108. Live for the night at Nuit Blanche – Winnipeg

September 30

Grab some caffeine and explore a free all-night celebration of art in St. Boniface, downtown and the Exchange District.

109. Light up the night with Nuit de Art – Winnipeg

Date TBA

One of the biggest gatherings of art lovers is Nuit de Art. Musicians, drinks, fireworks, light shows and every kind of artist you can imagine fills the area with beauty and fun.

110. Release your inner Viking at the Icelandic Festival of Manitoba– Gimli

August 4-7

The Icelandic Festival is a family-friendly event dedicated to promoting and sustaining Icelandic culture in Manitoba. With food, entertainment, activities, culture and celebration, this festival draws people from all over to join in the fun.

111. Watch a movie under the stars at the Gimli Film Festival – Gimli

The sunset screenings are the main attraction at the Gimli Film Festival. Everyone is welcome to put down a beach towel or chair, grab a bag of popcorn and enjoy the show.

112. Appreciate the best cinema at Cinematheque – Winnipeg

Year-Round

Cinematheque is an intimate theatre dedicated to only screening the best Canadian and world films. It also offers panel talks and artist discussions to satisfy the curious cinema minds.

113. Relish the Northern Lights

January-March

Churchill is considered one of the top three places on the planet to view the Northern Lights. Luckily, Manitoba has some great spots to view the dancing lights throughout the province. Try Oak Hammock Marsh’s Northern Lights Astronomy Night.

114. Visit Winnipeg’s French Quarter – Winnipeg

Year-Round

Whether you want history, good eats, theatre, a nice walk, or a view of Winnipeg’s iconic bridge, St. Boniface is the place for you. Resto Gare, Chaise Cafe and Mon Ami Louis offer incredible dining experiences, Tourisme Riel Walking Tour tells stories of the area, and Fort Gibraltar gives you a chance to see the lives of voyageurs.

115. Shimmy around the Pride Parade – Winnipeg

June 4

Winnipeg’s Pride Parade has turned into a 10-day festival in the heart of Winnipeg. Support LGBTTQ rights by dancing your heart out, laughing your butt off, and dressing in your best rainbow outfit.

116. Laugh till your belly hurts at the Winnipeg Comedy Festival – Winnipeg

April 3-17

The Winnipeg Comedy Festival is the highest rated comedy festival series on CBC Television, and you can see it live right here in Manitoba! Our good humour and friendly locals make Winnipeg the perfect place to host a comedy festival, eh!

117. Be entertained at the Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival – Winnipeg

July 19-30

Every year the Fringe Festival presents over 170 theatre companies from all over the world to put on experimental shows in Winnipeg.

118. Soak in the baths at Thermëa by Nordik-Spa Nature – Winnipeg

Year-Round

You won’t want to leave the saunas, baths, and relaxation areas at Manitoba’s only Nordic spa experience. Add the restaurant and massage experience onto your day – you deserve it!

119. Recharge at Prairie Yogi Snowflake Winter Wellness Festival –Winnipeg

January 15

This urban retreat is inspiring wellness in the community this winter with yoga and meditation and inspiration at the Fort Garry Hotel.

120. Delight in the Film Festival at Riding Mountain National Park – Clear Lake

July

This film festival is different because it strives to create an emotional impact on viewers about the environment. The films feature stories about our beautiful landscape and urge people to invest in our environment.

121. Do yoga in a cabin, on a lake, in the woods –Falcon Lake

October 20-22

South Moon Studio and Falcon Trails Resort have a relaxing weekend yoga retreat with meditation, live music, organic meals, a sweat shop, and hot tubs. Go rejuvenate yourself!

122. Watch movies like they used to at the Star Dust Drive In – Morden

Summer

Watch movies under the stars on the big screen at the Star Dust Drive In. Walk, drive or bike and join the community in watching some classic flicks.

Thrillers

It’s good to get out of your comfort zone once in a while. Try one of Manitoba’s adrenaline-filled activities to get your blood pumping!

123. Snag a catfish – Lockport

Spring/Summer

Manitoba’s man vs. fish challenge will leave you questioning your strength after battling these slippery suckers.

124. Jump out of a plane at Skydive Manitoba – Gimli

May-October

Get the best view of Lake Winnipeg when you jump out of a plane at 10,000 feet!

125. Try skijouring – Manitoba

Winter

Harness the power of your pup while it pulls you on a kick sled or skis. Get some quality time with your mutt while keeping fit and having fun! Snow Motion is a winter dog club that organizes runs through Birds Hill Provincial Park, La Barriere Park and along the Red and Assiniboine rivers.

126. Go to a Winnipeg Jets, Manitoba Moose or a Brandon Wheat Kings hockey game – Winnipeg

September – April

This might be the best way to experience true Manitoba pride. The MTS Centre rumbles with the “True North” call before the game even begins. Experience hockey the way Canadians do at a hockey game.

127. Cheer on the boys in blue and gold at a Bomber Game – Winnipeg

June-November

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers put up a great fight for the Grey Cup every year at the Investors Group Field. Grab some friends, a brew and come check them out.

128. Bundle up for dog sledding

Winter

Inspired by Inuit tradition, dog sledding is so mush fun! Elkhorn, Churchill and Asessippi are a few of the places in Manitoba that offer dog sledding.

129. Whitewater rafting –Pigeon River

May – September

Splash and shoot down Pigeon River – Manitoba’s finest whitewater canoe route. Package this with a camping trip and delight in a week of thrills through the Canadian Shield.

130. Find your thrill at the Red River Exhibition – Winnipeg

June 16-25

The best way to start your summer break is at the Red River EX. Live music, petting zoos, shows, unreal food vendors and the world’s largest travelling midway comes for 10-days of fun.

131. Search for Wolves along Spirit Way – Thompson

Year-Round

Spirit Way is a walking and biking path with historical, industrial and artistic perspectives, and stunning viewpoints. Along the way you will find decorated, 7.5 foot tall wolf statues. Find them all across Manitoba and mark them down in GPS Wolf Passport.

132. Dive into Mud Hero Winnipeg – Grand Beach

July 29

Run 6KM through forests, swamps, hills, campgrounds and tackle over 18 obstacles in your way. The Mud Hero experience wouldn’t be complete without a Frog Spa mud facial before you leave.

133. Color Me Rad – Winnipeg

May

Rejoice the end of winter and embrace to coming of spring with Color Me Rad 5K race. Every half mile volunteers blast you with rainbow slime, colourful gel and pretty powder to make this the brightest event it can be.

134. River surf at Sturgeon Falls

June – September

Learn to stand up surf at Sturgeon Falls. There are about six wave spots to choose from, depending on your skill level.

135. Ice climb at Castle Rock – Big Whiteshell Lake/Winnipeg

December – March

Find ice and harness up for some ice climbing in the Whiteshell. If you want to try it in the city first, the Alpine Club in St.Boniface transform a 20-metre tower into a frozen waterfall along the Red River.

136. Challenge yourself with rock climbing –Whiteshell Provincial Park

May – October

Climb over gorgeous granite cliffs in Whiteshell Provincial Park for hundreds of rock climbing options inside the Canadian Shield.

137. Kayak with Beluga whales – Churchill

July – August

Add kayaking with the canaries of the sea to your bucket list. These are sociable creatures in Manitoba’s Hudson Bay. Hop in a kayak and say hello to the belugas or grab your snorkel and dive in.

138. Snowboard at Asessippi Ski Area & Resort – Asessippi

December – April

Whip down the hill on your snowboard, skis or a tub at Asessippi . The resort offers snow school for beginners or if you need a refresher before you hit the hill.

139. Get your heart pumping at Adrenaline Adventures -Winnipeg

Year-Round

With cable wakeboarding, ziplining, climbing, paintball, beach volleyball, snow tubing and snowboarding, Adrenaline Adventures knows how to have fun!

140. Get moving on our ATV trails

Year-Round

The scenic and groomed trails are great for ATV riders. The All Terrain Vehicle Association of Manitoba is working toward a provincial wide trail system to help encourage new riders. Duck Mountain Provincial Park, Sandilands Provincial Forest, the Interlake Pioneer Trail and Seddons Corner just some of the great trails you should check out.

141. Slide into Valley View Tubing Hill – MacGregor

December – March

Hop in a tube and race the kids down the hill to the warm up shack for some hot chocolate and snacks.

142. Snowmobile all over Manitoba

November – March

Manitoba has many impressive snowmobile trails, but Spruce Woods Provincial Park has so many options with 9 different trails. If you are looking for a longer trek Turtle Mountain Provincial Park has 90 KM of trails and Paint Lake Provincial Park is one of our favourites for snowmobiling.

143. Get up-close and personal with Polar Bears – Churchill

May – November

One of the most incredible adventures of your life starts in Churchill. Plan your trip right and you can see polar bears, beluga whales and the Northern Lights.

144. Give ziplining a whirl – Pembina

Zip into the Hy-Wire Zip-Line Adventures in Pembina Valley. Safely soar 150 feet over ravines and trees as you take in the breath taking view.

145. Buckle –up for the Morris Stampede – Morris

July

Saddle up for some good old-fashioned bull riding, tie down roping, steer, wrestling, bareback riding fun at the Morris Stampede.

146. Paddle through Bloodvein River – Atikaki Provincial Park

May – September

Start in the tranquil waters through the Canadian Shield territory and move into over eighty sets of rapids after Artery Lake! You don’t need to be a pro to navigate through these waters, but an “experienced novice” would be essential.

147. Cliff jump in the Whiteshell – Whiteshell Provincial Park

June – September

I double dog dare ya! The Whiteshell has endless options for cliff jumping, being in the Canadian Shield. Be sure to know the area before you jump!

148. Mountain Bike in Manitoba

May -September

Manitoba is home to countless rolling mountain bike trails full of wildlife. One of the best spots is inside Turtle Mountain Provincial Park. Soothe your muscles with a dip in the lake after a long day of riding.

149. Strap on your skates for a roller derby – Winnipeg

May-July

Challenge yourself to try a new sport, or cheer on one of the top Canadian teams.

150. Party at Canada 151

July 1

Whether you celebrate at The Forks, Shaw Park, Assiniboine Park, Winnipeg Beach, your neighbour’s house, or at the cabin be sure to step outside for some fireworks and take a moment to appreciate all of the amazing things we have in our own backyard. Cheers, Canada. We’re looking forward to whatever is coming next.

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