Winnipeg Weekend Offers Festivals, Film, and Hockey Action

As the weekend of September 19–21 approaches, Winnipeg is set to host an array of events that promise to engage residents and visitors alike. Highlights include a vibrant festival celebrating local culture, a unique dog-centric gathering, an intriguing market for curious finds, an African film festival, and the Winnipeg Jets’ pre-season hockey opener against the Minnesota Wild.

Live, Love Downtown Festival

The Live, Love Downtown festival will take place on September 20-21 at Memorial Park, showcasing the heart of Winnipeg’s city centre. Running from noon to 9 p.m. each day, this free, family-friendly event aims to highlight local food, music, art, and community spirit. Attendees can expect a lively atmosphere filled with food vendors, live performances, and activities celebrating the contributions of local nonprofits and small businesses.

BarkFest: The Ultimutt Dog Party

Dog lovers will find their paradise at BarkFest: The Ultimutt Dog Party, hosted at Red River Exhibition Park on September 20-21. This weekend-long celebration features canine stunt shows, training demonstrations, and various contests with prizes. Not only is it a fun outing for dogs and their owners, but it also supports local rescue organizations, with proceeds benefiting K9 Advocacy Manitoba, Manitoba Mutts Dog Rescue, and Manitoba Underdogs Rescue. Admission is free for dogs and children under 12, with parking included.

An Oddly Curious Market

Also on the agenda is the Oddly Curious Market, taking place at Alloway Hall within the Manitoba Museum from September 19-21. This event will showcase a range of artists and makers offering unique, macabre, and unusual handcrafted goods. Visitors can browse through a selection of peculiar clothing and gifts while enjoying local food options and live performances, creating a vibrant marketplace atmosphere. Entry tickets start at $5.

African Film Festival in Manitoba

The African Movie Festival in Manitoba (AM-FM) will occur from September 19-21, featuring screenings at WAG-Qaumajuq and various local universities. Organized by Manitoba African Film Festival Inc. (MAFF Inc.), this festival aims to celebrate African cinema and the voices of Black filmmakers. Attendees can enjoy a diverse selection of feature films, documentaries, and shorts, alongside workshops and community events designed to foster dialogue and connection.

Winnipeg Jets Preseason Opener

Hockey fans can also look forward to the Winnipeg Jets’ pre-season home opener against the Minnesota Wild at Canada Life Centre on September 21 at 16:00. This match marks the first of six pre-season games ahead of the 2025–26 NHL season, giving supporters a preview of the team’s roster before the regular season begins. Tickets are available through the Jets’ official channels, with additional home games scheduled for September 23 against Edmonton and September 27 versus Calgary.

In summary, Winnipeg’s weekend lineup offers a dynamic mix of culture, entertainment, and sports, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.