BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Winnipeg for Free - ECPv5.16.4//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Winnipeg for Free X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://wpgforfree.ca X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Winnipeg for Free REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Winnipeg BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20260308T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20261101T070000 END:STANDARD TZID:America/Chicago BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20260308T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20261101T070000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260108 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260501 DTSTAMP:20260613T175227 CREATED:20250320T215748Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260417T053109Z UID:138767-1767830400-1777593599@wpgforfree.ca SUMMARY:Free Entry to Manitoba Parks for 1 Year Starting April 1\, 2025 DESCRIPTION:Free Entry to Manitoba Parks for a Year Starting April 1\, 2025Share This Story\nFree Entry ito Manitoba Parks for a Year – Here’s What You Need to Know! \nIf you love the great outdoors but hate the extra cost of getting out there\, I’ve got some amazing news! Starting April 1\, 2025\, there will be free entry into Manitoba Parks for an entire year. Yup\, no more park pass fees through March 31\, 2026. This little gem of an announcement is expected to be part of the upcoming Manitoba budget\, and honestly\, it’s a huge win for anyone who enjoys nature but doesn’t want to spend extra just to access it. \nWhy This Is a Big Deal\nFor a lot of us\, park entry fees aren’t a dealbreaker\, but they do add up—especially for families\, students\, and anyone trying to cut back on expenses. Normally\, a vehicle permit for provincial parks in Manitoba costs $9.50 for a day\, $16.50 for three days\, or $44 for an annual pass. If you visit parks often\, those fees can really stack up. So having a full year of free entry ito Manitoba Parks? That’s a big relief for the wallet. \n\n\n\n\n (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});\nWhat This Means for You\nWhether you’re a casual hiker\, a weekend camper\, or someone who just loves a peaceful lake view\, this change makes getting outdoors a whole lot easier. Here’s what you can expect: \n\nNo more vehicle permits – Just drive in and enjoy.\nMore opportunities to explore – Try out new parks you might have skipped before!\nPerfect timing for summer adventures – Hit up places like Birds Hill\, Whiteshell\, Spruce Woods\, or Riding Mountain (okay\, that last one is a national park\, but still worth a visit).\nGreat for budget-friendly outings – Pack a picnic\, bring some friends\, and make a day of it without spending a dime.\n\nWhat’s Still Not Free?\nWhile free entry to Manitoba Parks is happening\, other costs like camping\, cabin rentals\, firewood\, and park services (think fishing licenses\, boat rentals\, or guided tours) will still apply. So\, if you’re planning an overnight trip\, you’ll still need to budget for accommodations. But hey\, if you’re just heading out for a hike or a beach day\, you’re good to go without spending a cent! \n\n\n\n\n (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});\n\nWhy Is This Happening?\nFrom what I can gather\, this move is part of a broader effort to make nature more accessible to everyone. It could be a way to boost tourism\, encourage outdoor activity\, and give people an easy\, low-cost way to enjoy Manitoba’s natural beauty. Whatever the reason\, I’m not complaining! \nSpread the Word\nIf you know someone who loves the outdoors (or just loves free stuff)\, share this with them! Let’s make sure everyone takes advantage of this rare opportunity to enjoy free entry to Manitoba Parks. \nAre you excited about this? Have a favorite Manitoba park you’ll be visiting more often? Drop a comment and let me know! \nSource: Winnipeg Free Press \nDue to ongoing wildfires\, some parks and trails are temporarily closed or restricted: \n✅ Open Parks & Areas \n\n\nWhiteshell Provincial Park – All businesses and campgrounds are open. \n\n\n🚫 Mantario Wilderness Zone remains closed (includes the Mantario Hiking Trail and select portages). \n\n\n\n\n📅 Partially Open \n\n\nBakers Narrows Provincial Park – Seasonal campers can return July 25. Nightly campsites reopen August 1. \n\n\nNopiming Provincial Park – Reopens July 25 for permanent residents\, cottagers\, and commercial operators. \n\n\n🚫 Campgrounds at Beresford Lake\, Black Lake\, Tulabi Falls\, Shoe Lake backcountry sites\, all water routes\, and hiking trails remain closed for the season due to wildfire cleanup. \n\n\n🔥 Wildfire EA61 is still smouldering; flames and smoke will be visible all summer/fall. \n\n\n\n\n🚫 Fully Closed \n\n\nAtikaki Provincial Park – Majority of the park is closed\, including Aikens\, Dogskin\, and Sasaginnigak lakes\, plus Bloodvein and Gammon river corridors. \n\n\nSouth Atikaki & Wallace Lake Provincial Parks – Closed to all users. \n\n\nWekusko Falls Provincial Park – Closed until at least August 7 (closure may extend). \n\n\n Check for Updates \n\n\n\n\n (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});\n\nUpcoming Events\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12\n June\n 2026\n \n \n \n \n Free Entry Into Manitoba Parks June 12-14Enjoy free entry to Manitoba’s provincial parks and explore scenic trails\, lakes\, and outdoor adventures. Take part in guided tours\, stargazing\, and family-friendly activities while experiencing the beauty of nature across the province. \nFind out more\n \n \n \n Multiple Locations\,\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12\n June\n 2026\n \n \n \n \n Free Family Fishing Weekend June 12-14Enjoy Free Family Fishing Weekend in Manitoba\, where anglers can fish without a licence for three days across the province. It’s the perfect chance to get outdoors\, try fishing\, and spend quality time with family. \nFind out more\n \n \n \n Multiple Locations\,\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12\n June\n 2026\n \n \n \n \n Weekend Round-Up: 10+ Free Events in Winnipeg June 12-14A list of free things to do in Winnipeg during the weekend including activities for the family\, live music\, arts\, movies\, and more. \nFind out more\n \n \n \n Winnipeg\, Manitoba\,\n\n\n Winnipeg\,\n\n Manitoba\n\n\n Canada\n\n\n+ Google Map\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 26\n June\n 2026\n \n \n \n \n Downtown Winnipeg Night Market FIFA World Cup 2026 CelebrationCatch the Downtown Winnipeg Night Market FIFA World Cup 2026 Celebration on June 26–27 at True North Square\, featuring a free watch party\, global street food\, live music\, and cultural entertainment. Enjoy a vibrant evening of soccer\, food\, and community in the heart of downtown Winnipeg. \nFind out more\n \n \n \n True North Square\,\n\n223 Carleton St.\n \n \n Winnipeg\,\n\n\n R3C 0V1\n\n\n\n+ Google Map\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 07\n August\n 2026\n \n \n \n \n Movies in the Park at Assiniboine Park 2026Movies in the Park returns to Assiniboine Park this August with free outdoor movie nights\, double features\, and family-friendly fun under the stars on the Lyric Lawn. \nFind out more\n \n \n \n Lyric Theatre at Assiniboine Park\,\n\nLyric Theatre at Assiniboine Park\n \n\n\n\n\n\n+ Google Map URL:https://wpgforfree.ca/event/free-entry-to-manitoba-parks/ LOCATION:Multiple Locations ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://wpgforfree.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Manitoba-Parks.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260307 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260309 DTSTAMP:20260613T175227 CREATED:20260215T011033Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260215T011135Z UID:145569-1772841600-1773014399@wpgforfree.ca SUMMARY:2026 Gimli Ice Festival DESCRIPTION:Share This Story\n\n2026 Gimli Ice Festival: March 7–8\nCost: $5 admission \nCelebrate the magic of winter on the frozen shores of Lake Winnipeg at the 15th Annual Gimli Ice Festival. \nRunning Saturday\, March 7 and Sunday\, March 8\, 2026\, this weekend-long celebration combines high-octane racing\, Viking heritage\, and family-friendly competition in one of Manitoba’s most iconic lakeside towns. \nWhether you're looking for an adrenaline rush or a cozy cultural getaway\, the Gimli Ice Festival is the premier Interlake winter event you won't want to miss. \nSaturday Night Highlight: Fireworks at the Pier\nFIREWORKS AT THE GIMLI HARBOUR \nWhen: Saturday\, March 7th at 7:00 pm. \nJoin the community at the pier for a breathtaking display over the frozen lake—the perfect way to cap off your first day of festival fun. \nFestival Admission & Participation\nTo join the fun and compete in the weekend’s various challenges\, grab your Festival Pass! \n\nCost: Only $5.00\nValue: Required to be an official participant in games and activities\nInfo: Passes are available at the Festival Headquarters (Lake Winnipeg Visitor Centre)\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAdrenaline & Competition\n\nFIRE on ICE Car Racing: Watch the Winnipeg Sports Car Club battle it out on the frozen lake in a high-speed spectacle of skill and ice-drifting.\nPolar Games Teams Competition: Gather your squad and compete for winter glory in our signature team challenges.\nA Viking’s Challenge (7th Edition): Test your strength and endurance in this legendary Gimli tradition.\nHailey’s Way Fishing Derby: Cast a line and see if you can land the big one on the ice.\nJus Chillin ATV/UTV Show ‘N Shine: Admire the best winter rigs and off-road builds.\nFrozen Fish Toss: A quirky local favorite that’s exactly what it sounds like—pure winter fun.\n\nFamily Fun & Interactive Arts\n\nJourney To Arendelle: A magical experience for the little ones to meet their favorite snowy characters.\nFrozen T-Shirt Competition: How fast can you put on a frozen shirt? It’s harder (and colder) than it looks!\nHorse-drawn Wagon Rides: Take a scenic tour through the heart of Gimli in classic winter style.\nCreative Corner: Create your own Cool-io-Canvas Painting\, join the Festival Mural Creation\, or get festive with Face Painting.\nHarness Dog Winter Sports Demo: See the incredible teamwork of working dogs in their element.\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHeritage & Culture\n\nThe Hands Of Lugh: Step into history with Viking Life Reenactors and live combat demonstrations.\nGimli Red River Metis: Celebrate local indigenous culture and history through community displays.\nGIFF Film Screening: Catch a special Gimli International Film Festival reflection video and cinematic showcase.\n\nWinter Eats & Treats\n\nKiwanis Pancake Breakfast: Start your festival mornings right with a hearty community breakfast.\nBannock & Tea On An Open Fire: Warm your soul with traditional treats and sweet Maple Syrup Taffy on the snow.\n\nPlan Your Weekend in Gimli\nLocated just an hour north of Winnipeg\, the Gimli Ice Festival is the perfect destination for families\, photographers\, and winter enthusiasts. \nDress warmly\, bring your $5 participation pass\, and prepare for a weekend of “cool” memories! \nLocation: Gimli Harbour & Various Downtown Venues\nDates: March 7 – March 8\, 2026 \n\n\nUpcoming Events\n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12\n June\n 2026\n \n \n \n \n Free Entry Into Manitoba Parks June 12-14Enjoy free entry to Manitoba’s provincial parks and explore scenic trails\, lakes\, and outdoor adventures. Take part in guided tours\, stargazing\, and family-friendly activities while experiencing the beauty of nature across the province. \nFind out more\n \n \n \n Multiple Locations\,\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12\n June\n 2026\n \n \n \n \n Free Family Fishing Weekend June 12-14Enjoy Free Family Fishing Weekend in Manitoba\, where anglers can fish without a licence for three days across the province. It’s the perfect chance to get outdoors\, try fishing\, and spend quality time with family. \nFind out more\n \n \n \n Multiple Locations\,\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 12\n June\n 2026\n \n \n \n \n Weekend Round-Up: 10+ Free Events in Winnipeg June 12-14A list of free things to do in Winnipeg during the weekend including activities for the family\, live music\, arts\, movies\, and more. \nFind out more\n \n \n \n Winnipeg\, Manitoba\,\n\n\n Winnipeg\,\n\n Manitoba\n\n\n Canada\n\n\n+ Google Map\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 26\n June\n 2026\n \n \n \n \n Downtown Winnipeg Night Market FIFA World Cup 2026 CelebrationCatch the Downtown Winnipeg Night Market FIFA World Cup 2026 Celebration on June 26–27 at True North Square\, featuring a free watch party\, global street food\, live music\, and cultural entertainment. Enjoy a vibrant evening of soccer\, food\, and community in the heart of downtown Winnipeg. \nFind out more\n \n \n \n True North Square\,\n\n223 Carleton St.\n \n \n Winnipeg\,\n\n\n R3C 0V1\n\n\n\n+ Google Map\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 07\n August\n 2026\n \n \n \n \n Movies in the Park at Assiniboine Park 2026Movies in the Park returns to Assiniboine Park this August with free outdoor movie nights\, double features\, and family-friendly fun under the stars on the Lyric Lawn. \nFind out more\n \n \n \n Lyric Theatre at Assiniboine Park\,\n\nLyric Theatre at Assiniboine Park\n \n\n\n\n\n\n+ Google Map URL:https://wpgforfree.ca/event/2026-gimli-ice-festival/ LOCATION:Gimli Harbour & Various Downtown Venues\, Gimli\, Manitoba CATEGORIES:Culture,February 14,Kid Friendly,Live Entertainment,Multiday ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://wpgforfree.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Gimli-Ice-Festival-2026.webp END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR