Global Major Cities Guide

Learn about the various festivals and events that take place year-round, celebrating music, food, culture, and community in Winnipeg.

Sections

1. Cultural Festivals

Winnipeg celebrates its multicultural heritage with numerous cultural festivals that highlight the traditions, food, music, and art of its diverse communities.

a. Folklorama

When: Annually in August (two weeks)
What: The largest and longest-running multicultural festival in the world. Visitors can explore pavilions representing over 40 cultures, featuring traditional performances, food, and exhibits.
Cost:
- Single Pavilion Admission: CAD 13 (adults), free for children under 12.
- Multi-Pavilion Passes: CAD 54 for 4 pavilions.
How to Participate: Tickets can be purchased online or at the venues. Arrive early to secure good seats for performances.
Local Tips: Plan your visits to pavilions in advance as they are spread across the city. Use the Folklorama app for schedules and maps.

b. Manito Ahbee Festival

When: May
What: A celebration of Indigenous culture, featuring a powwow, Indigenous music awards, art expos, and workshops.
Cost:
- Powwow Admission: CAD 10–20.
- Some events are free.
How to Participate: Tickets are available online or at the venue. Visitors are welcome to observe or participate in workshops.
Local Tips: Respect Indigenous customs and ask for guidance if unsure about protocols during ceremonies.

c. Winnipeg International Jewish Film Festival

When: May–June
What: A showcase of Jewish culture and heritage through films from around the world.
Cost: CAD 10–15 per screening.
How to Participate: Tickets can be purchased online or at the venue.
Local Tips: Check the schedule in advance for special guest speakers or Q&A sessions.

2. Music Festivals

Winnipeg has a thriving music scene, with festivals catering to a variety of genres.

a. Winnipeg Folk Festival

When: July
What: A four-day outdoor music festival featuring folk, roots, and world music artists. Held at Birds Hill Provincial Park, just outside Winnipeg.
Cost:
- Full Festival Pass: CAD 300–350.
- Single-Day Tickets: CAD 90–120.
- Camping Pass: CAD 40–60.
How to Participate: Tickets can be purchased online. Camping spots must be reserved in advance.
Local Tips: Bring sunscreen, bug spray, and a reusable water bottle. Shuttle buses are available from Winnipeg to the festival site.

b. TD Winnipeg International Jazz Festival

When: June
What: A 10-day festival featuring jazz, blues, and contemporary music performances at various venues across the city.
Cost:
- Free outdoor concerts at Old Market Square.
- Indoor shows: CAD 20–100, depending on the artist.
How to Participate: Tickets are available online or at the venue. Some events require advance booking.
Local Tips: Arrive early for free outdoor shows to secure a good spot.

c. Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra’s New Music Festival

When: January
What: A week-long festival showcasing contemporary classical music, often featuring world premieres.
Cost: CAD 25–50 per concert.
How to Participate: Tickets can be purchased online or at the Centennial Concert Hall.
Local Tips: Dress warmly, as January is one of the coldest months in Winnipeg.

3. Seasonal Festivals

Winnipeg embraces its seasons with unique festivals that celebrate the city’s climate and natural beauty.

a. Festival du Voyageur

When: February
What: Western Canada’s largest winter festival, celebrating French-Canadian and Métis culture with music, food, snow sculptures, and historical reenactments.
Cost:
- General Admission: CAD 15–25.
- Family Pass: CAD 50–60.
How to Participate: Tickets can be purchased online or at the festival gates. Dress warmly and wear winter boots.
Local Tips: Try traditional foods like tourtière and maple taffy on snow.

b. Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival

When: July
What: One of North America’s largest fringe festivals, featuring hundreds of independent theatre performances.
Cost:
- Tickets: CAD 10–15 per show.
- Festival Passes: CAD 100–120 for multiple shows.
How to Participate: Tickets can be purchased online or at the venue. Some shows sell out quickly, so book early.
Local Tips: Check out free performances and buskers at Old Market Square.

c. Assiniboine Park Conservancy Events

When: Summer months
What: Free outdoor concerts, movie nights, and art exhibits at Assiniboine Park.
Cost: Free.
How to Participate: No tickets required. Bring a blanket or lawn chair.
Local Tips: Arrive early for popular events to secure a good spot.

4. Food and Drink Festivals

Winnipeg’s culinary scene is celebrated through various food and drink festivals.

a. Winnipeg Beer Festival

When: September
What: A celebration of craft beer, featuring local breweries, food trucks, and live music.
Cost: CAD 30–50 (includes drink samples).
How to Participate: Tickets can be purchased online. Must be 18+ to attend.
Local Tips: Bring ID and pace yourself to enjoy the variety of offerings.

b. ManyFest

When: September
What: A downtown street festival featuring food trucks, live music, a farmers’ market, and a wine and beer garden.
Cost: Free entry; food and drink prices vary.
How to Participate: No tickets required. Food and drink can be purchased on-site.
Local Tips: Try the poutine from local vendors and enjoy the family-friendly activities.

5. Film and Arts Festivals

Winnipeg is a hub for film and arts enthusiasts, with festivals showcasing local and international talent.

a. Winnipeg International Film Festival (WIFF)

When: September
What: A platform for independent filmmakers to showcase their work.
Cost: CAD 10–20 per screening.
How to Participate: Tickets can be purchased online or at the venue.
Local Tips: Look out for filmmaker Q&A sessions after screenings.

b. Nuit Blanche Winnipeg

When: September (part of Culture Days)
What: A free, all-night arts festival featuring installations, performances, and exhibits across the city.
Cost: Free.
How to Participate: No tickets required. Maps and schedules are available online.
Local Tips: Dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes for walking between venues.

Local Considerations

Weather: Winnipeg experiences extreme weather, with cold winters and hot summers. Dress appropriately for the season.
Transportation: Winnipeg Transit buses are a reliable way to get around. For festivals outside the city, consider renting a car or using shuttle services.
Accommodation: Book accommodations early, especially during major festivals like Folklorama and the Winnipeg Folk Festival.
Cultural Etiquette: Winnipeg is a multicultural city. Be respectful of different traditions and customs, especially during cultural and Indigenous events.
COVID-19 Precautions: Check for any health and safety guidelines or restrictions that may be in place during your visit.

Winnipeg’s festivals and events offer something for everyone, from music and theatre to food and cultural celebrations. With this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant cultural and social life. Enjoy your visit!

Winnipeg

Festivals and Events