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/Chicago BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20250309T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20251102T070000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251115T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251115T190000 DTSTAMP:20260514T071352 CREATED:20221115T052351Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251103T010613Z UID:92674-1763222400-1763233200@wpgforfree.ca SUMMARY:2025 MB Hydro Santa Claus Parade - Grey Cup Edition DESCRIPTION:Share This Story\nManitoba Hydro Santa Claus Parade – Grey Cup Edition\nDate: Saturday\, November 15\, 2025\, at 5:00 PM\nVenue: Downtown Winnipeg (Portage Avenue) \nGet ready for a truly special kickoff to the holiday season as the Manitoba Hydro Santa Claus Parade – Grey Cup Edition takes over downtown Winnipeg on November 15 at 5 PM. \nThis year’s parade merges two of the city’s favorite traditions – the magic of the holidays and the excitement of the Grey Cup Festival. The 2025 edition celebrates the 112th Grey Cup\, bringing together Santa and football in a dazzling show of lights\, music\, and community spirit. \n\n\n\nWhat Makes This Year’s Parade Different\n\nGrey Cup Theme: The entire parade embraces the 112th Grey Cup\, with floats\, costumes\, and decorations inspired by the big game. Expect CFL-themed displays alongside classic holiday favorites.\nGrey Cup as Grand Marshal: The Grey Cup itself will serve as this year’s Grand Marshal\, symbolizing the connection between holiday cheer and national pride.\nFestival Energy: Because it’s part of Grey Cup week\, the streets will be filled with fan zones\, football-themed music\, and larger crowds joining the celebration.\nExpanded Downtown Experience: Road closures and block parties create a festival atmosphere throughout downtown\, offering more places to explore and enjoy live entertainment before and after the parade.\nA Once-in-a-Generation Celebration: This rare crossover between Winnipeg’s biggest holiday event and Canada’s biggest sporting event makes 2025’s parade a milestone moment for the city.\n\nLocation & Route\nThe parade will light up downtown Winnipeg\, following the traditional route along Portage Avenue. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early as thousands are expected due to the Grey Cup Festival. \nWhy You Should Go\n\nCompletely Free: Open to everyone – no tickets needed.\nPerfect for Families: A must-see event for kids and adults alike.\nHoliday Meets Football: A one-night fusion of two Canadian traditions.\nFestive Photo Ops: From illuminated floats to football mascots and Santa himself\, there’s no shortage of picture-perfect moments.\n\n\n\n\n\nVisitor Tips\n\nArrive early to secure a good view – the parade starts promptly at 5 PM.\nDress warmly; Winnipeg nights in November can be chilly.\nConsider public transit or walking\, as parking will be limited due to festival road closures.\nBring your camera or phone for photos of the Grey Cup and Santa’s arrival.\nCheck downtown restaurants and cafés for parade-night specials and warm treats.\n\nKey Details at a Glance\nEvent: Manitoba Hydro Santa Claus Parade – Grey Cup Edition\nDate: Saturday\, November 15\, 2025\nTime: 5:00 PM\nLocation: Downtown Winnipeg (Portage Avenue)\nCost: Free for all ages\nTheme: 112th Grey Cup + Holiday Tradition\nAudience: Families\, holiday fans\, CFL supporters\, and visitors \n\n\n\n\nUpcoming Events\n \n \n \n \n \n \n 03\n May\n 2026\n \n \n \n \n Narcisse Snake Dens 2026See thousands of red-sided garter snakes gather at the Narcisse Snake Dens during Manitoba’s incredible spring mating season. This rare natural phenomenon offers a free\, unforgettable wildlife experience just outside Winnipeg. \nFind out more\n \n \n \n Narcisse Snake Dens\,\n\nHighway 17\n \n \n Narcisse\,\n\n Manitoba\n\n R0C 2H0\n\n Canada\n\n\n+ Google Map\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 15\n May\n 2026\n \n \n \n \n Weekend Round-Up: 10+ Free Events in Winnipeg May 15-17A 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 15\n May\n 2026\n \n \n \n \n UNIQLO CF Polo Park Grand OpeningUNIQLO is opening at CF Polo Park in Winnipeg with a full grand opening weekend from May 15–17\, 2026. Shoppers can enjoy free giveaways\, exclusive tote bags\, and special in-store events. Visit the new store for LifeWear essentials designed for everyday comfort and style. \nFind out more\n \n \n \n CF Polo Park\,\n\n1485 Portage Ave\n \n \n Winnipeg\,\n\n Manitoba\n\n R3G0W4\n\n Canada\n\n\n+ Google Map\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 29\n May\n 2026\n \n \n \n \n Western Canada Rib Fest Tour 2026Western Canada Rib Fest Tour returns to Winnipeg with three days of mouthwatering ribs\, live entertainment\, and family-friendly fun at Red River Exhibition Park. Enjoy free admission (Friday and Saturday) and a lively festival atmosphere packed with great food and community vibes. \nFind out more\n \n \n \n Assiniboia Downs\,\n\n3975 Portage Ave.\n \n \n Winnipeg\,\n\n\n R3K 2E9\n\n CA\n\n\n+ Google Map\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 30\n May\n 2026\n \n \n \n \n Doors Open Winnipeg 2026Celebrate Winnipeg's 150th anniversary with FREE Doors Open Winnipeg 2024! Explore over 90 unique buildings\, museums\, and cultural spaces on May 25th & 26th. Discover hidden gems\, architectural wonders\, and fun activities for all ages. Don't miss this chance to connect with Winnipeg's vibrant past and present! Visit Doors Open Winnipeg for details. \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 30\n May\n 2026\n \n \n \n \n Haunted History Tour at Doors Open WinnipegExplore Winnipeg’s haunted history on this outdoor walking tour featuring eerie stories and iconic landmarks. Runs May 30–31 at 11 AM and 2 PM; registration required. \nFind out more\n \n \n \n Vaughan Street Jail\,\n\n444 York Avenue\n \n \n Winnipeg\,\n\n Manitoba\n\n\n Canada\n\n\n+ Google Map\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 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/winnipeg-santa-claus-parade/ LOCATION:Portage & Main\, 201 Portage Ave\, Winnipeg\, Manitoba\, Canada CATEGORIES:Christmas,Holiday,Kid Friendly ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://wpgforfree.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Winnipeg-Santa-Claus-Parade-1.webp GEO:49.8957545;-97.1392545 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Portage & Main 201 Portage Ave Winnipeg Manitoba Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=201 Portage Ave:geo:-97.1392545,49.8957545 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251201 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260101 DTSTAMP:20260514T071353 CREATED:20181127T040341Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251216T064622Z UID:40782-1764547200-1767225599@wpgforfree.ca SUMMARY:2025 Linden Lights DESCRIPTION:  \n  \nLinden Lights: A Winnipeg Holiday Classic\nIf you’ve lived in Winnipeg for a while\, you’ve probably heard someone say\, “Have you gone to Linden Lights yet?” And if you haven’t… yeah\, it’s worth it. \nEvery December\, the Lindenwoods neighbourhood turns into a full-on holiday light zone\, with residents going all out decorating their houses and even entire streets. It’s free\, it’s low-pressure\, and it somehow manages to feel festive without being chaotic — which is honestly kind of rare this time of year. \nWhat to Know (Nothing Fancy\, Just the Basics)What: Linden LightsWhere: Linden Woods\, southwest WinnipegWhen: December (usually early to mid-month)Cost: FreeBest time to go: After dark — roughly 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM \n\n \n\n\nThe Streets Everyone Talks About\nThe fun part is spotting the themed streets. Neighbours coordinate decorations and turn whole blocks into mini attractions: \n\n🍭 Candy Cane Lane (Foxmeadow Drive) – Exactly what it sounds like. Red\, white\, and aggressively festive.\n🐻 Polar Bear Land (Hennessey Drive) – Glowing polar bears everywhere. Very on-brand for Winnipeg winter.\n🏠 Gingerbread Lane / Nutcracker Lane – These pop up depending on the year\, but they always feel like something out of a Christmas storybook.\n\n\n \n\n\nWhy People Keep Going Back\nLinden Lights is perfect if you want something Christmassy without committing to tickets\, schedules\, or standing outside freezing for an hour. You just drive slowly through the neighbourhood\, sip whatever warm drink you brought along\, and take it all in. \nSome houses have lights synced to music\, some go full animated display mode\, and others just quietly shine — but together it works. There’s also a friendly competition vibe\, with residents aiming for “best house” or “best street” bragging rights through the Linden Woods Community Centre. \nA Couple Local Tips: Take it slow\, be patient with traffic\, and be respectful — people actually live here. If you see signs about tuning your radio to a certain station\, do it. And if you’re looking for a route map\, here it is.If you’re craving something festive\, free\, and very Winnipeg\, Linden Lights checks all the boxes. It’s one of those traditions that doesn’t try too hard — and that’s exactly why it works. \n\n\n\n\n\nUpcoming Events\n \n \n \n \n \n \n 03\n May\n 2026\n \n \n \n \n Narcisse Snake Dens 2026See thousands of red-sided garter snakes gather at the Narcisse Snake Dens during Manitoba’s incredible spring mating season. This rare natural phenomenon offers a free\, unforgettable wildlife experience just outside Winnipeg. \nFind out more\n \n \n \n Narcisse Snake Dens\,\n\nHighway 17\n \n \n Narcisse\,\n\n Manitoba\n\n R0C 2H0\n\n Canada\n\n\n+ Google Map\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 15\n May\n 2026\n \n \n \n \n Weekend Round-Up: 10+ Free Events in Winnipeg May 15-17A 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 15\n May\n 2026\n \n \n \n \n UNIQLO CF Polo Park Grand OpeningUNIQLO is opening at CF Polo Park in Winnipeg with a full grand opening weekend from May 15–17\, 2026. Shoppers can enjoy free giveaways\, exclusive tote bags\, and special in-store events. Visit the new store for LifeWear essentials designed for everyday comfort and style. \nFind out more\n \n \n \n CF Polo Park\,\n\n1485 Portage Ave\n \n \n Winnipeg\,\n\n Manitoba\n\n R3G0W4\n\n Canada\n\n\n+ Google Map\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 29\n May\n 2026\n \n \n \n \n Western Canada Rib Fest Tour 2026Western Canada Rib Fest Tour returns to Winnipeg with three days of mouthwatering ribs\, live entertainment\, and family-friendly fun at Red River Exhibition Park. Enjoy free admission (Friday and Saturday) and a lively festival atmosphere packed with great food and community vibes. \nFind out more\n \n \n \n Assiniboia Downs\,\n\n3975 Portage Ave.\n \n \n Winnipeg\,\n\n\n R3K 2E9\n\n CA\n\n\n+ Google Map\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 30\n May\n 2026\n \n \n \n \n Doors Open Winnipeg 2026Celebrate Winnipeg's 150th anniversary with FREE Doors Open Winnipeg 2024! Explore over 90 unique buildings\, museums\, and cultural spaces on May 25th & 26th. Discover hidden gems\, architectural wonders\, and fun activities for all ages. Don't miss this chance to connect with Winnipeg's vibrant past and present! Visit Doors Open Winnipeg for details. \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 30\n May\n 2026\n \n \n \n \n Haunted History Tour at Doors Open WinnipegExplore Winnipeg’s haunted history on this outdoor walking tour featuring eerie stories and iconic landmarks. Runs May 30–31 at 11 AM and 2 PM; registration required. \nFind out more\n \n \n \n Vaughan Street Jail\,\n\n444 York Avenue\n \n \n Winnipeg\,\n\n Manitoba\n\n\n Canada\n\n\n+ Google Map\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 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/linden-lights/ LOCATION:Lindenwoods\, Winnipeg\, Manitoba\, Canada CATEGORIES:Christmas,Holiday ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://wpgforfree.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/2025-Linden-Lights-2.webp END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR