Fall & Winter Festivals in Manitoba

As you embark on your next fall or winter visit into Manitoba, keep some time free on your agenda to explore local festivals. From the capital, Winnipeg, to as far north as Thompson, there's an array of festivals sure to make your fall or winter visit into Manitoba a memorable one.

Winter in Winnipeg can mean a lot of things for visitors: plenty of chilly temperatures, snow, and visits to the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra New Music Festival. Each year, the WSO New Music Festival features concerts from top touring performers and bands at venues around Winnipeg – head for the West End Cultural Centre, Pantages Playhouse Theatre, or the Centennial Concert Hall. 

Late January is your time to check out excellent musical performances while in Winnipeg – you can also make the scenic drive in from nearby Headingley.

Typically held from November 1st through 3rd, the Manitoba Livestock Expo is a popular event in Brandon which is west of Winnipeg. One of the largest cattle events in the province, the Manitoba Livestock Expo is produced by the Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba, a non-profit organization. They also host the annual Royal Manitoba Winter Fair at the end of March. These festivals and events are held at the Keystone Centre.

A visit to Brandon should also include some time spent at the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum, and the B.J. Hales Museum of Natural History.

If you're planning a visit to the north, head for Thompson and check out the annual Thompson Winter Fest. Thompson, also known as the home of the Burntwood Curling Club, hosts the month-long celebration. The Thompson Winter Fest begins the first week of February with the Winter Fest Kick Off – free to everyone. All of the action takes place at the Thompson Regional Community Centre where you'll also be able to see the Hoop Dancing and Storytelling event. The Winter Fest Wrap Up event takes place at the Letkemann Theatre.