Winnipeg is taking an incredibly exciting and innovative approach to urban planning by partnering with local students and Minecraft, the wildly popular video game. The Level Up: Winnipeg initiative allows students to explore Downtown Winnipeg in Minecraft and reimagine the future of this vibrant area.
Thanks to the game’s immersive and engaging nature, students can visit block versions of recognizable landmarks, such as Old Market Square and Circle of Life Thunderbird House. With the guidance of tour guides like Mayor Gillingham and a Heritage Officer, students can learn about the area’s past, present, and future while having fun exploring.
After exploring Downtown Winnipeg, students are encouraged to channel their creativity and build something in the Minecraft Winnipeg world, and then upload a short video showcasing their project. Outstanding ideas that move the city forward will be considered for CentrePlan 2050, a long-term plan to guide investment and development downtown.
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t columns=”” column_min_width=”” column_spacing=”” rule_style=”” rule_size=”” rule_color=”” hue=”” saturation=”” lightness=”” alpha=”” content_alignment_medium=”” content_alignment_small=”” content_alignment=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” sticky_display=”normal,sticky” class=”” id=”” margin_top=”” margin_right=”” margin_bottom=”” margin_left=”” fusion_font_family_text_font=”” fusion_font_variant_text_font=”” font_size=”” line_height=”1.1″ letter_spacing=”” text_transform=”none” text_color=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_color=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_delay=”0″ animation_offset=””] This is an amazing opportunity for students to delve into Winnipeg’s history, learn more about what’s happening downtown today, and gain a unique perspective that can be integrated into the city’s planning process. According to Karin Kliewer, a Downtown Planner, this initiative is an exceptional way for youth to get involved in their community’s planning and development.
The Level Up: Winnipeg program is a collaborative effort involving all of Winnipeg’s six school divisions, as well as the Division scolaire franco-manitobaine, Lord Selkirk School Division, Balmoral Hall, Microsoft Canada, and Minecraft: Education Edition. Students from all grade levels can participate until May 26, 2023.
Even if your child’s school isn’t participating, they can still get involved by downloading Minecraft Education on their device and exploring the world on their own. They can either use their school credentials to log in or access the world in the New & Featured worlds section.
By engaging youth in the planning and development of their communities, innovative approaches like Level Up: Winnipeg demonstrate the importance of incorporating their ideas and perspectives into city planning. Cities can ensure that they are meeting the needs and desires of their future residents by embracing these creative and exciting opportunities.[/fusion_text]
Upcoming Events
Free Entry to Manitoba Parks for 1 Year Starting April 1, 2025
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Weekend Round-Up: 10+ Free Events in Winnipeg March 20-22
A list of free things to do in Winnipeg during the weekend including activities for the family, live music, arts, movies, and more.
Free Admission to Winnipeg Police Museum
The Winnipeg Police Museum offers free admission and features artifacts dating back to the late 1800s, vintage vehicles and motorcycles, and stories highlighting the history and service of the Winnipeg Police Service, located at 245 Smith Street and open Tuesday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada
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.
Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada
Free Admission to Manitoba Sports Hall Of Fame
Discover Manitoba’s sports history with free admission to the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame in downtown Winnipeg. Explore exhibits featuring legendary athletes, championship teams, and unforgettable moments that shaped the province’s sporting legacy.
Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada
Free Admission to Winnipeg Police Museum
The Winnipeg Police Museum offers free admission and features artifacts dating back to the late 1800s, vintage vehicles and motorcycles, and stories highlighting the history and service of the Winnipeg Police Service, located at 245 Smith Street and open Tuesday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada
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.
Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada
Free Admission to Manitoba Sports Hall Of Fame
Discover Manitoba’s sports history with free admission to the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame in downtown Winnipeg. Explore exhibits featuring legendary athletes, championship teams, and unforgettable moments that shaped the province’s sporting legacy.
Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada
Free Admission to Winnipeg Police Museum
The Winnipeg Police Museum offers free admission and features artifacts dating back to the late 1800s, vintage vehicles and motorcycles, and stories highlighting the history and service of the Winnipeg Police Service, located at 245 Smith Street and open Tuesday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada
Hospitality, Tourism & Retail Job Fair
Meet top employers in hospitality, tourism, and retail at this upcoming job fair in Winnipeg. Whether starting out or leveling up, this is a chance to connect, get hired, and explore new opportunities.
Winnipeg, R3C 3J3 CA