Manyfest, the biggest street festival in Winnipeg, has been cancelled for 2023 due to operational challenges. The event, which was scheduled for September 8-10, was expected to attract thousands of visitors to downtown Winnipeg with a variety of activities and entertainment.

Manyfest is a three-day celebration of arts, culture, community and diversity that takes place every year in downtown Winnipeg. The festival features:

• Food truck wars, where local vendors compete for the best cuisine
• A family zone with games, crafts and inflatables
• Live music and entertainment
• A market with local artisans and vendors

Manyfest was first held in 2010 as a collaboration between Smith Events, True North Sports + Entertainment and the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ. The festival aims to showcase the vibrancy and diversity of downtown Winnipeg and to promote local businesses and organizations.

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According to a statement from Manyfest and Downtown Winnipeg Biz on their social media and website, the festival was cancelled due to a number of operational factors that made it impossible to run a successful event this year.

Downtown Winnipeg Biz:

It is with a great deal of disappointment that Smith Events and True North Sports + Entertainment, following consultation with the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ, have determined that the presentation of Manyfest, scheduled for Sept 8-10 on Broadway, will not take place this year. Much effort was expended to explore alternative options however, a number of operational factors do not make it possible to run a successful event this year. Smith Events and True North look forward to continuing their long-standing collaboration with the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ, as well as with the many partners and sponsors who have worked alongside us in previous years, to host ManyFest in the future.

Manyfest may not be happening this year, but there are still plenty of other events and activities to enjoy in downtown Winnipeg. Here are some suggestions:

• Salsa Sundays at True North Square: Enjoy free salsa lessons and dancing every Sunday until August 31.
• Burt Block Party at The Burton Cummings Theatre and 351 Smith: Enjoy live music from Strumbellas, Billy Talent, Brett Kissel, Glass Tiger and Cheap Trick from August 11 to 20.
• Winnipeg Veg Fest at The University of Winnipeg: Enjoy vegan food, speakers, vendors and entertainment on September 9.
• Nuit Blanche Winnipeg at Winnipeg Art Gallery: Enjoy art installations, performances and activities on September 23.