Share This Story

🌞 Winnipeg Wading Pools Now Open! – July 2, 2025

Good news for families looking to cool off—as of July 2, 2025, Winnipeg’s wading pools are officially open for the season! The openings started yesterday (July 1) and now most locations are good to go. This lines up nicely with the way spray pads and outdoor pools started rolling out earlier this summer.

✅ What to Know at a Glance

  • Opening dates: Wading pools started opening on July 1, and by July 2, most should be open.
  • Who it’s for: These pools are free and made for kids 12 and under, but a parent or guardian needs to be there. There’s staff on-site and washrooms too.
  • Open on holidays: Not all of them stay open on stat holidays, but Central Park, Dakota Park, McKittrick Park, and St. John’s Park will be open on July 1, August 4, and September 1.

📅 Quick Pool Season Rundown

Spray Pads Opened May 24, 2025
Outdoor Pools Started June 20 and June 27, 2025
Wading Pools Started July 1, fully open by July 2

🌳 Some Popular Spots to Check Out

  • Central Park – Right downtown, super easy to get to.
  • Dakota Park – By the Dakota Community Centre. Heads up—the big slide isn’t there anymore as of late June.
  • McKittrick Park & St. John’s Park – Nice options, especially since they stay open on long weekends.

All together, Winnipeg has 62 wading pools, which means there’s probably one not too far from home. And best of all—they’re totally free.

🛟 A Few Handy Tips

  • Anyone 12 and under can splash around, as long as there’s an adult with them. No passes or fees required.
  • Staff are on duty at each pool, and washrooms are available.
  • Life jackets, little floaties, and water wings are okay to bring—but leave the water guns and oversized inflatables at home.
  • Kids under 7 need to have an adult keeping a close eye on them. If you’re coming with a big group, there might be limits if it’s really busy.

🔍 Before Heading Out

  • Hours vary: Each pool runs on its own schedule. Some close earlier than others, and they start draining before the posted closing time.
  • Holidays: Only the four parks listed above will be open on July 1, August 4, and September 1.
  • Weather stuff: Pools can close for thunderstorms, water issues, or repairs—so it’s always a good idea to check before going if the sky looks sketchy.

✨ Why It’s Worth a Visit

  • It’s a fun and easy way for kids to be active and get outside.
  • It brings people together—lots of neighbours end up chatting while their kids play.
  • It doesn’t cost a thing and doesn’t take much planning. Sometimes the best summer memories come from spontaneous visits like this.

📸 Snap & Share!

Got a cute photo of the kids splashing around? Use #WPGWadingPools to share the summer vibes online. It’s always fun to see which pools families are loving the most.

Upcoming Events

Winnipeg Fringe Festival at Old Market Square 2025

Don't miss the epic 12-day Winnipeg Fringe Festival at Old Market Square (July 17-28, 2024) in Winnipeg's Exchange District! Free outdoor entertainment includes live music, street performers, food trucks, and artisan vendors. Catch lunchtime concerts or dance to bands from 8 pm to midnight. Public washrooms, ATMs, and a beer tent are available for your convenience. While entry is free, consider tipping the performers!

Find out more
Old Market Square, 275 Bannatyne Ave.
Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada
+ Google Map

Manitoba Stampede and Exhibition 2025

Experience the Manitoba Stampede & Exhibition, a thrilling event featuring free grounds admission, exciting rodeo and chuckwagon competitions, live music, a vibrant midway, and family-friendly activities. Don't miss the captivating RCMP Musical Ride! Join us July 19-21 at the Manitoba Stampede Grounds in Morris, MB. Secure your spot today!

Find out more
Manitoba Stampede, 350 Main St S
Morris, Manitoba Canada
+ Google Map

Weekend Round-Up: 10+ Free Events in Winnipeg July 18-20

10+ Free Things To Do In Winnipeg This Weekend July 18-20 Posted Every Tuesday before

Find out more
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada
+ Google Map

Jazz in the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden

Insert image 🎶 2025 Summer Concert Series at Assiniboine Park Lyric Theatre When: Thursdays and

Find out more
Leo Mol Garden, Assiniboine Park Dr
Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada
+ Google Map

2025 Summer Concert Series at Assiniboine Park Lyric Theatre

Immerse yourself in summer vibes at the free Summer Concert Series at Assiniboine Park Lyric Theatre! Enjoy a vibrant mix of local and regional talents every Thursday and Sunday, July 7th to August 29th, from 7 pm to 9 pm. Pack a picnic, gather your friends and family, and unwind under the Manitoba sky with captivating live music. Don't miss this opportunity to create lasting memories at Winnipeg's beloved Assiniboine Park.

Find out more
Assiniboine Park, 55 Pavilion Crescent
Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada
+ Google Map

Free Family Fun Nights at Assiniboia Downs

Create lasting memories with your family at Assiniboia Downs' Family Fun Nights! Every Monday during live racing nights (May 20th, July & August, Sept 2nd), enjoy FREE bouncy castles, face painting, and live entertainment for kids. This is the perfect way to combine the thrill of horse racing with unforgettable family fun! Don't miss out on this exciting and free event!

Find out more
Assiniboia Downs, 3975 Portage Ave.
Winnipeg, R3K 2E9 CA
+ Google Map

RBC Sunset Screenings On the Beach at Gimli Film Festival

Watch classic films, cult classics, and Hollywood hits on a 11-meter tall screen in the waters of Lake Winnipeg at the RBC Sunset Screenings On the Beach @ Gimli Film Festival. These free, public screenings are a great way to enjoy a summer night in Manitoba.

Find out more
Gimli Beach, Gimli, Manitoba Canada
+ Google Map

2025 Ballet In The Park at Assiniboine Park

Experience Winnipeg's cherished summer tradition for free! Join Ballet in the Park on Wednesday, July 24-26, at 7:30 pm for a magical evening of dance under the prairies sky. Witness exceptional performances by professional dancers and enjoy family-friendly activities before the show. Bring blankets or lawn chairs, snacks, and water for a delightful outdoor experience! (Location details can be found on the event website).

Find out more
Assiniboine Park, 55 Pavilion Crescent
Winnipeg, MB Canada
+ Google Map

Bee Amazing Free Summer Activities at Garden City Shopping Centre

Bee Amazing Free Summer Activities at Garden City Shopping Centre Bee Amazing Free Summer Activities

Find out more

2025 Summer Concert Series at Assiniboine Park Lyric Theatre

Immerse yourself in summer vibes at the free Summer Concert Series at Assiniboine Park Lyric Theatre! Enjoy a vibrant mix of local and regional talents every Thursday and Sunday, July 7th to August 29th, from 7 pm to 9 pm. Pack a picnic, gather your friends and family, and unwind under the Manitoba sky with captivating live music. Don't miss this opportunity to create lasting memories at Winnipeg's beloved Assiniboine Park.

Find out more
Assiniboine Park, 55 Pavilion Crescent
Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada
+ Google Map
Load More