How to Do Winter in Winnipeg Like a True Local

As the snow settles, Winnipeg transforms into a winter wonderland, ripe with tradition and twinkling lights. If you're looking to indulge in the quintessential holiday experience, here's your curated guide to the best seasonal activities Winnipeg has to offer, blending old-school charm with modern festivity.

⛄️Begin With the Balsam: A Guide to Tree Hunting🎄

First stop? The quest for the ultimate Christmas tree, a tradition that involves more than just picking the thickest one. It's about the scent of pine filling your living room, the needles that inevitably find their way into your socks, and yes, the incessant vacuuming. But it's worth it, right?

Jensen Nursery (2550 McGillivray Blvd, Oak Bluff, MB): Not just trees but a wreath for every door and a sprig of mistletoe waiting to be strategically placed.
https://jensennursery.com/christmas/

Windrift Christmas Tree Farm (Rd 38E, Tyndall, MB): Cut your own tree and feel like a true woodsman for the day. https://www.facebook.com/WindriftChristmasTreeFarm/

Vandermeer Garden Centre (1027 Old PTH 59, Ile des Chênes, MB): Where trees compete with one-of-a-kind holiday decorations. https://vandermeergardencentre.ca/

RBM Gardens (7521 Roblin Blvd. Headingley, MB): A serene escape for those looking to avoid the holiday rush.
https://rbmgardens.wordpress.com/

Timber Trails Tree Farm (35101 Rd 28N, Steinbach, MB): Where holiday cheer is contagious.
https://www.facebook.com/timbertrailstreefarm

🎅Santa Sightings and Where to Find Them⭐️

No Winnipeg winter is complete without a visit from the jolliest resident of the North Pole. Grab your wish list and meet Santa in these uniquely festive settings:

Kildonan Place (Nov 15-Dec 24): More than just a photo op, it’s a full festive immersion.

Polo Park Shopping Centre (Nov 15 - Dec 24 2024): Where Santa’s laugh is drowned out only by the crowd's cheer.

St. Vital Centre (Nov 14 - Dec 24 2024): An Enchanted Forest that makes everyone believe in magic, at least for a moment.

FortWhyte Alive (Nov 30, 10:30 am - 3:00 pm): Santa in his most natural setting—because even Santa needs a break from the mall.

💫Market Magic: Shop Local, Celebrate Global🛍️

Winnipeg’s markets are less about the shopping and more about the experience—think twinkling lights, artisan gifts, and enough festive spirit to power Santa’s sleigh.

• Third & Bird Christmas Market (Nov 22 - Nov 24): A local pop-up that feels like a warm hug.

• LuckyGirl Holiday Pop Up (Dec 15): Where every purchase supports local craftsmanship.

• Lower Fort Garry - Holiday Market & Santa Pancake Breakfast (Nov 23): Combine shopping with eating. Because why not?

⭐️Festive Fun: Beyond Shopping🛷

Winter in Winnipeg is packed with events that turn the cold and snow into a playground of possibilities:

• Snow Maze at Corn Maze: Lose yourself (literally) in the joy of the season.

• Holiday Alley: Where Selkirk turns into a canvas of lights and local art.

• Canad Inns Winter Wonderland: Drive through a lit-up fantasyland that makes you wish you had a convertible.

• Winnipeg Santa Claus Parade: Because Santa in a sleigh pulled by reindeer never gets old.

🏂Cold Thrills: Outdoor Adventures🧣

For those who believe that a little frostbite is no reason to stay indoors, Winnipeg’s outdoor activities make you wish winter was longer.

• Saint Boniface Ice Climbing Tower: Scale icy heights and pretend you’re on Everest.

• Sledding and Tobogganing at FortWhyte Alive: Go on, unleash your inner child—screams of joy encouraged.

Wrap up, Winnipeg. From tree farms that smell like childhood to markets that sparkle with local talent, and outdoor adventures that make you feel alive, your city is calling you to revel in its winter wonders.