The Forks On-Land Trails & CN Stage Rink Are Open

Okay, so this feels like one of those “ah yep, winter’s officially here” moments.

The on-land skating trails at The Forks are open — and so is the CN Stage rink. No fuss, no hype train, just ice ready to go and waiting for skates.

Which, honestly, is very Winnipeg.

What That Actually Means

  • Skate the on-land trails without waiting for river conditions
  • Do a few laps (or a few careful shuffles) around the CN Stage rink
  • Realize it’s colder than expected, laugh it off, and head for something warm

It’s casual, free, and doesn’t demand a whole evening. Perfect for people who want to do something without turning it into a whole production.




Why This Is a Solid Winter Move

The Forks is one of those places that works whether you’re fully motivated or just kind of bored and restless. You don’t need a plan. You don’t need tickets. You can skate for 10 minutes or an hour, wander around, people-watch, or just say “yep, that counts as outside time” and head home.

In winter, that’s a win.

A Few Very Local Reminders

  • Dress warmer than you think. Then warmer than that.
  • Bring your own skates, or check inside The Forks Market for rentals.
  • Not skating? Walking around while others wobble is still a valid outing.




Low-Effort, High-Payoff Winnipeg Winter Fun

If you’re looking for something easy to do this week or over the weekend — especially something that actually feels like winter — this is one of those low-effort, high-payoff options.

Upcoming Events

Free Entry to Manitoba Parks for 1 Year Starting April 1, 2025

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2026 Riverview Community Centre Winterfest

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2026 Cabin Fever: Free Films for Kids! (Sundays)

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2026 Learn to Winter at The Forks

Learn to Winter at The Forks runs every weekend from January to February with free activities celebrating Winnipeg’s winter spirit. Enjoy DJs on Ice, skating lessons, storytelling, wellness classes, and more at locations throughout The Forks, weather permitting.

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The Forks, FORKS MARKET RD
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2026 Roblin Park Winter Carnival

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Roblin Park Community Centre, 640 Pepperloaf Crescent
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Free Admission to Winnipeg Police Museum

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Winnipeg Police Museum, 245 Smith St.
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WAG Wednesday Nights

WAG Wednesday Nights offers free admission every Wednesday evening from 5:00–9:00 PM at WAG-Qaumajuq, starting January 2026, with live music, interactive activities, and rotating cultural programming in the heart of downtown Winnipeg.

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Qaumajuq – Winnipeg Art Gallery, 300 Memorial Blvd.
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2026 Cabin Fever: Free Films for Kids! (Sundays)

Cabin Fever: Free Films for Kids! returns this winter with free Sunday screenings at the David Barber Cinematheque. Families can enjoy beloved classics and animated favourites from January 4 to February 22.

Find out more
David Barber Cinematheque, 100 Arthur St
Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada
+ Google Map

2026 Learn to Winter at The Forks

Learn to Winter at The Forks runs every weekend from January to February with free activities celebrating Winnipeg’s winter spirit. Enjoy DJs on Ice, skating lessons, storytelling, wellness classes, and more at locations throughout The Forks, weather permitting.

Find out more
The Forks, FORKS MARKET RD
Winnipeg, R3C 4L9 CA
+ Google Map
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