Credit: Travel Manitoba
Winter time – either you love it, or not so much. For those who love it, they live for the snow and being able to bundle up in their snowsuits. If you’re not a fan of winter, maybe it’s because you haven’t found the right activity yet. To help you out, we came up with a list of 50 things to do across Manitoba this winter that you’ll enjoy.
There is so much to do in winter that will make you forget about the cold and enjoy the outdoors.
Events & Festivals
Canad Inns Winter Wonderland
The first event to check out in the winter months is the Canad Inns Winter Wonderland in Winnipeg. Take in over one million lights throughout different theme areas. It’s something the whole family will enjoy. Details
Manitoba Ag Days
The largest indoor farm show in Canada is the Manitoba Ag Days in Brandon. For three days, you’ll have the chance to cover 10 acres of pure farm exhibits that attract visitors from across North America. January 20 – 22, 2026. Details
Vita & Area Winter Festival
The Vita & Area Winter Festival is a two-day family-friendly event that celebrates the winter season with activities like dog sled races, curling, sleigh rides, skijoring, tobogganing and more fun ways to enjoy the cold and lengthy winters of the region. January 17-18, 2026. Details
Winterruption
Winterruption is a winter event in Winnipeg aimed at encouraging people to venture out during the cold season. Hosted by top music venues in the city, including the West End Cultural Centre, in collaboration with Real Love Winnipeg and other local venues, it offers a mix of ticketed and free concerts in late January. January 20-25, 2026. Details
Snowdance Festival of Winter and Music
For something that has a bit of everything, check out the Snowdance Festival of Winter and Music. From outdoor winter events to live music Friday night, there’s something for the whole family out at the Falcon Ridge Ski Slopes. Details
World Snow Day Weekend
Celebrate World Snow Day with Friends of RMNP during the World Snow Day Weekend. There will be lots of great activities taking place in and around the Friends of RMNP Learning Centre. It’s time to explore, enjoy, and experience snow! January 17 – 18, 2026. Details
Raw: Almond
Dine in the annual pop-up restaurant on the frozen Assiniboine River that serves multi-course meals prepared by some of North America’s (and Winnipeg’s) finest chefs served on long communal tables in an elaborate tent. Details
Winnipeg New Music Festival
The 35th annual Winnipeg New Music Festival will feature world and Canadian premieres, promising emerging composers of contemporary art music. Details
Have a Winter Adventure
Skate, ski, snowshoe, eat, explore, learn, and play… The family event brings together many winter activities over the three days for an unforgettable festival. Enjoy the winter days in Riding Mountain National Park. February 6 to 8, 2026. Details
Ironman Outdoor Curling Bonspiel
Another truly Canadian game is curling. You’ll find many curling events throughout the winter months, including the Ironman Outdoor Curling Bonspiel. The three-day event is a fundraiser for the Heart & Stroke Foundation on the Red River. February 6, 2026. Details
Westman Multicultural Festival
The Westman Multicultural Festival is a yearly winter event with the goal of celebrating the rich tapestry of cultures that enrich the Westman region in Manitoba. 2026 dates TBA (February 6 – 8, 2025). Details
KidFish Ice Derby
Take the family to the KidFish Ice Derby. All the proceeds go to the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba and the CancerCare Foundation of Manitoba. So, not only are you enjoying something entertaining with the kids, it’s for a good cause. February 15, 2026. Details
Altona Winter Carnival
The family-friendly Altona Winter Carnival is a fun filled day with various winter activities. February 15, 2026. Details
Great Backyard Bird Count
Take a birding hike through the woods, tallying up all the birds you find. It’s a fun and educational event that supports a greater cause. Details
Northern Manitoba Trapper’s Festival
The annual Northern Manitoba Trapper’s Festival is a chance to learn and celebrate the heritage of the northern pioneer. You’ll learn the skills and participate in activities that the pioneers engaged in. February 18 – 22, 2026. Details
Family Fishing Weekend
Twice a year, Manitoba holds Family Fishing Weekends. Once in the Spring/Summer, and the other one in the Winter. The Family Fishing Weekend is a good time for families to fish across Manitoba parks (excluding federal parks) without a license.
Skate the Lake
Skate the Lake is a two-day pond hockey tournament taking place in Minnedosa where teams of 5 compete in a 4-on-4 pond hockey format with two 15-minute halves. There are no goalies, no refs and no limit to the fun! dates TBA. Details
Festival du Voyageur
Winter time in Winnipeg has Western Canada’s largest winter festival, the Festival du Voyageur. Not only do you get to appreciate the winter elements of Manitoba, but it’s all with unique entertainment you won’t find anywhere else. Details
Falcon Lake Loppet Ski Race
Pencil in March 7 and head to Falcon Lake for the annual Floppet Loppet Ski Race for the whole family. The new event is a unique Nordic ski race through the boreal forest. There are three different race lengths depending on what you prefer. Details
Gimli Ice Festival
Embrace your inner Viking at the Gimli Ice Festival. Gimli is home to some of the most unique festivals, the Ice Festival being one of them. There will be fun and games for the home family, as you’re immersed in the culture of the municipality. March 6-8, 2026. Details
Royal Manitoba Winter Fair
Royal Manitoba Winter Fair is the largest combined indoor agricultural fair and equestrian competition in Manitoba. Details
Festival des Amis – Festival of Friends
The Festival des Amis – Festival of Friends, takes place over Louis Riel long weekend every year in St. Malo. It’s a place to enjoy dancing, food, and a lot of family fun and to celebrate the culture and traditions of the first Métis and French settlers to the area. Details
Falcon Lake Winter Fish-Off
The Falcon Lake Winter Fish Off is Canada’s largest fishing derby! A great day to spend on the ice for anglers of all ages. March 14, 2026. Details
Ice Fishing Festival
Celebrate all things ice fishing. At this event, you can visit information booths and on-ice demonstrations to learn about ice fishing or even try it yourself. Knowledgeable experts will be present to provide tips and guidance. It’s a great opportunity to get started in the world of ice fishing. dates TBA (March 22, 2025). Details
Freeze Frame International Film Festival
Enjoy quality films and videos from around the world at the Freeze Frame International Film Festival. Held annually in March, this festival caters to Kids of all ages and comprises of films, workshops and a chance to mingle with filmmakers. March 8 – 14, 2026. Details
Canadian Power Toboggan Championship
Held in Beausejour, the Canadian Power Toboggan Championships is the longest-running snowmobile race in the world. Racers of all ages and skill levels compete in Stock, Modified, Vintage and Motorcycle classes, from Kitty Kat right through to Pro levels. Details
Winnipeg Jets Game
Although the NHL season starts in Fall, there is something about going to a game when there is snow on the ground that makes it a truly Canadian Winter experience. Check out a Winnipeg Jets Game and cheer on Manitoba’s team. Details
Winter Whoot Festival
Warming Huts
See iconic artistic creations in Winnipeg’s river trails. Designed by architects and artists from around the world, these creations lend an artistic flair to the snowy scenery. Details
The Lake Shaker
The Lake Shaker is an enjoyable winter event for adults (18+), offering a range of activities like bonfires, outdoor dancing, giant games on the lake, enjoying an ice bar, and snowshoeing in the forest. It’s a fun way to embrace the season and create memorable experiences in a beautiful winter setting. Details
Explore Snow Maze
Take a walk along the Guinness Book of World Records’ Largest Snow Maze! Details
Lake of the Prairies Ice Fishing Derby
If you’ve never gone on an ice fishing derby, try one of the many available this winter. The Lake of the Prairies Ice Fishing Derby is your chance to win a lot of money, and have a lot of fun. Details
Attractions & Outdoor Adventures
Winter Camping in Provincial Parks
Credit: Travel Manitoba
Can you brave bone chilling Manitoba winter nights? Then, go winter camping in Manitoba Provincial parks. While developed campgrounds close for the winter season, there are several options for winter camping including cozy cabins at certain locations.
Enjoy camping in Jackfish Lake cabin at Spruce Woods Provincial Park or James Lake cabin at Turtle Mountain Provincial Park. There is no charge for camping or use of the Jackfish or James Lake cabins, but registration is required for any overnight use in these two parks. For Spruce Woods, call Carberry District Office at 204-834-8800; for Turtle Mountain, call Boissevain District Office at 204-534-2028.
For more information on winter camping in provincial parks, contact your local District Office/toll- free 1 -800 -214 – 6497 or email SD@gov.mb.ca . More Details
Dine at Dan’s Diner
Experience a remote culinary adventure at 58° North latitude beneath the northern lights. The exquisitely curated, multi-course menu will feature regional and local fare. The experience will be open on select dates. For a complete experience, you may also book the Frontiers North Northern Lights and Winter Nights trips. Details
Picturesque Winter Views of Lake Winnipeg
Go cross country skiing at Camp Morton. The park has 12.4 kilometres of trails offering excellent skiing for all levels of skiers, from novice to advanced. Enjoy picturesque winter views of Lake Winnipeg and of forests of oak, ash, birch and spruce. Details
Cross Country Ski in Grand Beach Provincial Park
Choose from over 37 kilometres trails that traverse this famous summer destination. Rest awhile at the warming shelters along the way. Details
Dog Sledding
Not ready for a race but want to try dog sledding? In Churchill, that is where you’ll get the best dog sledding around. You’ll be shown the ropes of running a dog sled team for an authentic experience. Details
Late Night Skiing at Asessippi
When there is snow on the ground, it’s time to bring out the skis and snowboards. Head to Asessippi for a weekend to ski the largest ski area in Manitoba. This year, Asessippi is offering late-night skiing on January 30, February 13, 27, and March 13, 27, 2026. Details
Tobogganing
A true winter activity is tobogganing. It may seem like it’s more for kids, but it’s something that even adults can get behind. There are many types of toboggans you can use depending on how fast you want to go.
Check out the hills in your town or head to hills in Spruce Woods or Turtle Mountain provincial parks.
Ski Holiday Mountain Resort
Looking for something in the southern part of the province? Then head to Holiday Mountain Resort in La Riviere. One of Manitoba’s most popular ski resorts with on-site lodging, recently came under ownership by Lake Louise. Details
Polar Bear Watching
Mystery Mountain Winter Park
To hit the slopes in northern Manitoba, then head to Mystery Mountain Winter Park near Thompson. There are 10 kilometres of cross-country trails, runs for exceptional skiing and snowboarding, and trails for snowshoeing as well. Details
Snowmobile
Looking for more of an adrenaline adventure this winter? Grab your snowmobile and take on one of the many groomed trails across the province. Details
Skijoring
Want to do some skiing but take your dogs with you? Then try out skijoring in and around Winnipeg. It combines the love of cross-country skiing with one or two dogs. You’ll be harnessed to the dogs as they pull you along the cross-country trails. Details
Snowshoeing
What was once a way for people to make their way through the snow has now turned into a favourite winter pastime. Snowshoeing is not just an excellent workout, but it is a lot of fun as well. Have the chance to explore nature’s winter wonderland.
Snowshoe ungroomed neighbourhood parks, or head to Manitoba parks like Beaudry, Birds Hill, Hecla/Grindstone, Spruce Woods and Whiteshell provincial parks.
Winter Walking in Hecla/Grindstone
Enjoy a solitary winter walk and explore this beautiful park all decked in winters glory. Details
Sleigh Rides in Birds Hill Ranch
Visit Birds Hill Park Ranch to enjoy sleigh rides over snowy landscapes! Details
Winter Park
Spend an afternoon or evening with your loved one skating down the trail and enjoy beautiful winter sites. Details