🌞 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

🌳 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.