Free Winnipeg Events This Weekend: May 1-3

Posted Every Tuesday before 7 PM.


FEATURED EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

Jane’s Walk Winnipeg Festival
Date: May 1 – May 3, 2026
Time: Various times
Venue: Multiple locations across the city

Jane’s Walk is a global festival of free, citizen-led walking conversations inspired by Jane Jacobs, encouraging people to explore and share stories about their neighbourhoods. Walks are free, open to everyone, and designed to spark community connection, reflection, and dialogue.

Free Comic Book Day 2026
Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026
Time: Store hours vary
Venue: Participating comic book stores (multiple locations)

Visit local comic shops to pick up free comic books and discover new stories, characters, and creators during this global celebration. Many stores also offer special events, giveaways, and activities for fans of all ages while supplies last.

Select Shows Carnival at Grant Park Shopping Centre
Date: May 1 – May 10, 2026 (weekends)
Time: Fri 5:00 PM | Sat 12:00 PM | Sun 12:00 PM
Venue: Grant Park Shopping Centre, 1120 Grant Avenue

Enjoy free admission to this family-friendly carnival featuring rides, games, and classic midway fun over two weekends. Ride coupons and all-you-can-ride wristbands are available for purchase on-site.

Canuck Amusements Carnival
Date: April 24 – May 10, 2026 (weekends)
Time: Fri 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Sat 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Sun 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Venue: Kildonan Place, 1555 Regent Avenue West

Enjoy free admission to this outdoor carnival featuring rides, games, and classic midway food across three weekends. Ride tickets and all-you-can-ride wristbands are available for purchase, with chances to score free wristbands through promotions.

DOWNTOWN

Free Admission to Winnipeg Police Museum
Date: Friday
Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Venue: Winnipeg Police Headquarters, 245 Smith Street

Explore over a century of policing history through artifacts and exhibits dating back to 1874. Admission is free and open to all visitors.

Free Admission to Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame
Date: Friday
Time: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Venue: #100 – 145 Pacific Avenue

Discover Manitoba’s sporting history through exhibits featuring athletes and teams from across the province. Admission is free for all visitors.

First Fridays @ Manitoba Museum
Date: Friday, May 1, 2026
Time: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Venue: Manitoba Museum, 190 Rupert Avenue

Enjoy free admission to the museum, planetarium, and science gallery with special programming and hands-on activities for all ages. This month features exhibits, guest speakers, and interactive experiences.

First Friday in the Exchange
Date: Friday, May 1, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM+
Venue: Exchange District (multiple locations)

Explore galleries, studios, shops, and local businesses during this monthly arts event in the Exchange District. Enjoy free access to creative spaces, exhibits, and community activities throughout the evening.

Celebrating Happiness During the Full Goose Moon
Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Venue: Canadian Museum for Human Rights, 85 Israel Asper Way

Join a guided session exploring Cree teachings on happiness, connection, and seasonal renewal. This workshop includes reflection, cultural teachings, and a traditional tea experience (registration required).

International Line Dance Flash Mob 2026
Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Venue: The Canopy at The Forks, 1 Forks Market Road

Watch local line dance groups perform coordinated routines in this lively outdoor flash mob event. Visitors can enjoy the performance or learn how to join future dances.

Railway Day
Date: Sunday, May 3, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Venue: VIA Rail Union Station, 123 Main Street

Celebrate railway history with exhibits, model train displays, and interactive activities. Meet local enthusiasts and explore Manitoba’s train heritage.

FAMILY PICKS

Magic: The Gathering Drop-In Program
Date: Saturdays, May 2 – June 13, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Venue: Robert A. Steen Community Centre, 980 Palmerston Avenue

Learn and play Magic: The Gathering in a casual, supervised environment designed for youth ages 12–16. All skill levels are welcome, with cards and dice provided and no registration required.

Saturday Drop-In Activities at Living Prairie Museum
Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Venue: Living Prairie Museum, 2795 Ness Avenue

Visit the Living Prairie Museum for free drop-in activities while exploring one of the last remaining tall grass prairie preserves in North America. This week’s theme focuses on bison and their role in restoring prairie ecosystems through a hands-on, family-friendly activity.

Winnipeg Collectibles Swap Meet
Date: Sunday, May 3, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Venue: Viscount Gort Hotel, 1670 Portage Avenue

Browse a wide variety of collectibles, including trading cards, retro games, and unique vendor items at this free swap meet. Enjoy a retro gaming competition, photo area, prizes, and more throughout the day.

Create and Connect Crafts at The Leaf
Date: Sunday, May 3, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Venue: The Leaf, 145 The Leaf Way

Drop in for hands-on crafting using natural and recycled materials in a fun, family-friendly environment. Activities are suitable for all ages and take place in the Tannis M. Richardson Classroom.

MORE FREE EVENTS

Flex Your Fitness Challenge
Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026
Time: 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM
Venue: 1750 Sargent Avenue

Take part in a fun, high-energy fitness challenge open to all skill levels, featuring exciting activities and a supportive atmosphere. Participants can enjoy prizes, giveaways, and a chance to push their limits (registration required).

Memories on McGregor: Milkshakes, Military & More
Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Venue: 556 McGregor Street

Explore the history of McGregor Street through its iconic businesses, community spaces, and military landmarks on this guided walking tour. The route includes stops like the Fort Garry Horse Armouries and Fire Station No. 6.

Stories Our Forests Tell – Jane’s Walk
Date: Friday, May 1 & Saturday, May 2, 2026
Time: May 2: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | May 1: 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Venue: St. Norbert Farmer’s Market, 3514 Pembina Highway

Explore the suburban riverbottom forests of St. Norbert and learn about their resilience, history, and biodiversity along the Red and LaSalle Rivers. The guided walk includes multiple scenic and educational stops.

From Ruins to the Spirit: Nature, Arts and Culture at SNAC
Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026
Time: 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Venue: Trappist Monastery Provincial Heritage Park, 100 Rue des Ruines du Monastère

Take a guided walk through the historic Trappist Monastery ruins while learning about the area’s cultural and natural significance. The tour includes stops at landmarks like the Pagoda and surrounding natural spaces.

ADULTS 18+ ONLY

 

Soul Seed Duo – Live at McPhillips Station Casino
Date: May 1 & 2, 2026
Time: 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Venue: Loft 180, McPhillips Station Casino, 484 McPhillips Street
Price: Free entry (18+ Only)

Enjoy a live late-night performance by Soul Seed Duo inside Loft 180 at McPhillips Station Casino. This 18+ event offers a relaxed atmosphere with optional venue purchases.

Gary Gach with Kings Ransom – Live at McPhillips Station Casino
Date: May 1 & 2, 2026
Time: 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Venue: Mainstage, McPhillips Station Casino, 484 McPhillips Street
Price: Free entry (18+ Only)

Catch a night of high-energy entertainment with Gary Gach with Kings Ransom on the Mainstage at McPhillips Station Casino. This 18+ event features live music in a lively venue setting.

Saturday Jazz Nights
Date: May 2, 2026
Time: 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM
Venue: The Nob, 3540 Pembina Highway

Enjoy an evening of live jazz in an intimate setting at The Nob, featuring talented local musicians and a relaxed atmosphere. This free event is perfect for jazz lovers looking for a laid-back night out.

Live Music Weekends – Silver Spike Saloon
Date: Fridays & Saturdays
Time: 9:00 PM
Venue: Silver Spike Saloon, 202 Bond Street
Price: Free entry (venue purchases optional, 18+)

Enjoy live music featuring local bands across rock, country, and blues genres in a lively weekend atmosphere. This 18+ event offers a casual night out with optional food and drink purchases.

KIDS EAT FOR FREE

Kids Eat Free at Hooters
Date: Saturday and Sunday, all day
Venue: Hooters, 1501 St. Matthews Ave, Winnipeg

Kids eat free on weekends at Hooters! Children 10 and under can enjoy a free meal from the kids’ menu with the purchase of an adult entrée priced at $12 or more.

Note: This offer may stop at any time without prior notice. Call the restaurant first to confirm availability.

Kids Eat Free at Fionn’s
Date: Every Sunday
Venue: Fionn’s, 1180 Grant Ave

Enjoy a family-friendly Sunday at Fionn’s where kids eat free all day, and adults can sip on $7 Caesars. A great way to wrap up the weekend with good food and savings.

Note: This offer may stop at any time without prior notice. Call the restaurant first to confirm availability.

NEAR WINNIPEG

Narcisse Snake Dens Experience
Date: May 3 – May 16, 2026
Time: Best viewing late morning to early afternoon (11:00 AM – 3:00 PM)

Status: Not Active

Venue: Narcisse Snake Dens, Highway 17

Best conditions expected early–mid May (weather dependent)

Witness one of North America’s most unique wildlife events as thousands of red-sided garter snakes emerge during spring mating season. Activity varies depending on weather, but visitors can explore walking trails and boardwalks for a safe and memorable experience.

Cineplex Family Favourites: Minions
Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026
Time: 11:20 AM
Venue: Cineplex Theatres (multiple locations)
Price: $5.49 or less

Enjoy a family-friendly big-screen showing of Minions as part of Cineplex’s weekly Family Favourites program. This affordable movie experience offers fun for all ages and a great way to start the weekend.

The Manitoba Electrical Museum
Date: Tuesday – Saturday
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Venue: 680 Harrow Street
Price: $5.00 per person

Discover Manitoba’s electrical history through interactive exhibits and displays. This affordable museum visit is a great educational outing for families and curious visitors.

Lao New Year 2026 Celebration
Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Venue: Heather Curling Club, 120 Rue Youville
Price: $10 admission

Celebrate Lao New Year with traditional music, dance, and authentic cuisine in a vibrant cultural setting. Enjoy an evening of performances, food, and community festivities.