Looking for fun ways to spend summer holidays with kids in Winnipeg? Here is a list of fun things to do in and around Winnipeg during summer.
Red River Ex
You may like:
Hiking Trails In and Around Winnipeg
Outdoor Adventures in Winnipeg
Note: Stay informed about wildfire and travel restrictions in place before planning your trip this summer.
Contents:
- Summer Events & Festivals
- Summer Attractions & Activities
Summer Events and Festivals
Red River Ex
Summer means a big carnival! Go to the Red River Ex- there’s no shortage of fun, excitement, and a long list of activities that keep you and your little ones engaged for a whole day or more!
June 12 – 21, 2026
Evening Canoe Excursion
Explore the Oak Hammock Marsh on a canoe, guided by canoe specialist, Dusty Molinski, on this two hour evening paddle.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Duck and Run
Duck and Run is Ducks Unlimited Canada’s national fundraising race for wetland conservation.
June 7, 2026
Dauphins Countryfest
Canada’s longest-running country music festival runs from June 26 to 29. Josh Ross, Jordan Davis, John Michael Montgomery, and many more are coming to serenade you under the stars.
June 25 – 28, 2026
Dauphins Countryfest
Indigenous Peoples Day
On Saturday, June 20, enjoy a day filled with music, entertainment, and fun in recognition of Indigenous Peoples Day.
June 20, 2026
Brunchfest
Enjoy tasting portions from top chefs, all-access tickets, food and cocktail samples, and fun games.
June 20, 2026 | 11:30 AM
Theatre @ The Ruins
Running June 4 to July 5 at the beautiful Trappist Monastery Provincial Heritage Park, As You Like It is one of two productions by Shakespeare in the Ruins this summer. Running June 18 to July 5 at the beautiful Trappist Monastery Provincial Heritage Park, An Iliad is the second of two productions by Shakespeare in the Ruins this summer under the theme “Love & Legends.”
An Iliad plays June 18 – July 5, 2026; As You Like It plays June 4 to July 5, 2026
Loveville 2026
Loveville festival brings laughter, games, music, magic, food, and unforgettable connections. Loveville 2026 is a carefully curated experience for families, friends, and entrepreneurs: create memories with your kids and friends.
June 26 & 27, 2026
We Love Our Grandparents
The perfect day, the perfect experience to spend time with the Grandparents in your life or the experience for Grandparents to bring their Grandchildren on a ride on the Prairie Dog Central Railway.
June 28, 2026
sākihiwē festival
Enjoy music, art, and fun at Winnipeg’s core and north end. The sākihiwē festival includes concerts and block parties at Turtle Island and Central Park.
June 25 – 28, 2026
Free outdoor concerts
Summer means the outdoors and music. There are many places where you can hear free outdoor concerts in Winnipeg.
Various dates all through the summer
Canada Day
Are you ready to sing Happy Birthday Canada? Attend one of the many events in and around Winnipeg during Canada Day and end the day by watching fireworks lit up the sky.
Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Historic Places Days
Time travel by visiting various historic places across Canada. More than 400 sites are waiting to be discovered − find one near you. Canada Historic Places Day
July 11-25, 2026
Ballet in the Park
Enjoy Ballet In The Park presented by Royal Winnipeg Ballet in a unique outdoor setting complete with stage, lighting, and costumes!
July 28 – 30, 2026
Live Theatre at the Rainbow Stage
Captivating audiences year after year is the Rainbow Stage. This year stages the following productions:, Jesus Christ Superstar, Legally Blonde The Musical, and Fiddler on the Roof.
Jesus Christ Superstar plays June 25 – July 12, 2026; Legally Blonde The Musical plays August 13 – 30, 2026, Fiddler on the Roof plays September 9-10, 2026.
Winnipeg Folk Festival
Listen to children’s music at the Chickadee Big Top stage and take part in the family activities during Winnipeg Folk Fest.
July 9-12, 2026
Jurassic Quest
Embark on a journey where North America’s largest moving, roaring, and breathing dinosaurs come alive in a fully immersive walk-through experience. Discovery awaits at every turn as families dig for fossils, meet adorable baby dinos, ride life-sized giants, and let their creativity soar in our LEGO®-themed play zones.
July 3 – 5, 2026
Super-Spike
Super-Spike is Western Canada’s largest outdoor volleyball tournament, ultimate tournament, and two-day concert series, all set in a festival atmosphere. In addition to the volleyball, an ultimate tournament is back as another sport option. Skills are optional, fun is mandatory! The concert series at Super-Spike keeps the party going long after the games are over. Catch 10 live acts over two days!
July 17 – 18, 2026
1999 – The Ultimate Prince Experience
1999 The Ultimate Prince Experience The genius & innovation of the one-and-only PRINCE! This immersive stage show is created with a world-class 8-piece band, costuming and production, and iconic songs.
July 24, 2026
Manitoba Stampede & Exhibition
Thinking of getting to Calgary for the stampede? Why not enjoy the one closer to home? Visit Morris and enjoy the thrill of watching bronco-busting, tie down roping, bareback riding, and more at Manitoba Stampede & Exhibition.
July 17 – 19, 2026
Steinbach Pioneer Days
Relive the Mennonite past of Steinbach, through pioneer activities, steam-powered threshing, music, and lots of good food during Steinbach Pioneer Days.
August 1 – 3, 2026
Manitoba Sunflower Festival
Celebrate the sun-loving yellow flower and everything Altona with plenty of music, food and entertainment during the Manitoba Sunflower Festival.
July 24 – 26, 2026
Ai-Kon
Winnipeg’s popular Japanese anime and pop culture Ai-Kon is back again this year from July 11 to 13.
July 17 to 19, 2026
Free Entertainment
Enjoy free family fun and be entertained at the Summer Entertainment Series at the Assiniboine Park. From movies to live concerts, there is something for every member of the family.
Various dates
Wellness Wednesdays
On Wednesdays in August at 6 pm, gather at the Lyric Theatre to enjoy a dose of Wellness.
Wednesdays in August 2026
Hazy Lazy Day of Summer
Spend a Hazy Lazy Day of Summer at the Oak Hammock Marsh.
dates TBA
Passion Play
Experience the moving award-winning production of Manitoba’s Passion Play at Oak Valley Outdoor Theatre in La Riviere.
July 3 – 5, 10 – 12, 2026
Folklorama
It’s time for Canada’s largest Multicultural festival. Folklorama is a good time to introduce your child to various cultures.
August 2 to 15, 2026
Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival
Enjoy 12 days of innovative, engaging & affordable theatre. The Fringe also features a vendor market that includes jewelry, clothing, crafts, art, photography and pottery from local artisans.
July 15 to 26, 2026
Summer Fun at Aviation Museum
Stop by 2088 Wellington Avenue to see the Royal Aviation Museum. Every Tuesday and Thursday brings something a little different to discover at the Museum.
Tuesday and Thursday July 2nd – August 27, 2026
Country Rising Fest
This is Winnipeg’s newest country music festival, Country Rising!
August 21, 2026
Icelandic Festival of Manitoba
Head to the neighbouring town of Gimli in early August. Be transported to an 800 AD Viking age while you watch actors reenact an old Viking battle during the Icelandic Festival of Manitoba.
July 31 to August 3, 2026
Manitoba Night Market & Festival
Enjoy kids activities, live bands, beer gardens, 15+ food trucks, shopping sprees, 100+ Artisans, a fire show and so much more!
July 19, August 23, 2026 | 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Winnipeg Tattoo Convention
Get ready for the Winnipeg Tattoo Convention running in August. The show will host live tattooing by local, Canadian, and international tattoo artists and will feature suppliers to the industry with a wide variety of local vendors including jewellery, apparel, artwork, piercing, airbrushing, custom painters, and much more.
August 7 – 9, 2026
ROGerKImLee Music Festival
Come to Eriksdale’s McEwen Park for a weekend of live music, markets, and craft beers. Enjoy performances, explore the Makers Market and Show ‘n Shine, and join Sunday’s Gospel Hour. You can also participate in foraging walks and music workshops.
August 21-23, 2026
StrEAT Feast Festival
StrEAT Feast Festival features some of the various street foods and cultural specialties from various parts of the world found in Winnipeg and Manitoba. Enjoy two days of a fun family-friendly environment, good vibes, food, performances, a vibrant market, and various types of activities available at STREAT FEAST!
August 13 – 16, 2026
Morden Corn and Apple Festival
Does the thought of corn on the cob, spread with lots of butter, make your mouth water? Pack the kids into the car and head to Morden. Free, hot, buttered, Corn-on-the-Cob and the sweetest apple juice is a tradition at Morden Corn and Apple Festival. If you want more reasons for the drive (90 minutes), there is free entertainment, activities, buskers, a parade, and much more!
August 28-30, 2026
Find your way out
Enjoy getting lost in the maze or get to the top of the Giant Bale Pyramid at A Maze In Corn. Corn Maze will be open from August to October. Also opening mid-August is the Sunflower Expo when you can wander through 8 acres filled with many different varieties of sunflowers.
August – October 2026
Baby Bison Walk
Come see the 9th largest land animal at its smallest and cutest during Baby Bison Walk. Available on Saturdays.
Saturdays, June 6 – August 29, 2026
Bark in the Park
August 17th is the return of Bark in the Park where fans can bring their four-legged friends to that evening’s game against the Explorers.
Saturday, August 15, 2026 | 6:00 PM
Nikki Glaser: The Stunning Tour
The host of three hit podcasts, Emmy®, Grammy® and Golden Globe®-nominated Nikki Glaser is one of the funniest voices in comedy today. Get your tickets today!
August 6 – 7, 2026
Free Movies
Enjoy free movies at Transcona Square on select days during the summer.
Various dates
Manitoba Filipino Street Festival
The 15th edition of the festival will feature cultural dances, all-day entertainment, Filipino food, fireworks, and more!
August 22 – 23, 2026
Burt Block Party
Enjoy live music over four nights on two weekends in a fully licensed site plus several food trucks and vendors.
August 13 – 16, 2026
Winnipeg Lantern Festival
Join us as we light up the night and celebrate community, culture, and creativity at the Winnipeg Lantern Festival.
September 12 – 13, 2026
A Taste of Manitoba
This exciting event invites everyone to enjoy delicious creations from 20 local Manitoba restaurants, showcasing the rich culinary diversity of our province. Celebrate Manitoba’s vibrant food scene with a variety of mouthwatering dishes crafted by talented chefs.
September 3 – 7, 2026
Family Fun at the Museum
Enjoy family fun at the Manitoba Museum with hands-on activities and engaging programming happening every afternoon throughout July & August.
Teddy Bears’ Picnic
Save the date! The 36th Teddy Bears’ Picnic returns on Sunday, September 27, 2026, at Assiniboine Park, featuring activity tents like the Dr. Goodbear Clinic and fun science activities by CHRIM.
Sunday, September 27, 2026
Dragon Boat Festival
The September Dragon Boat Festival usually takes place in September. Cheer for your team!
September 13, 2026
Red River Paddle Challenge
The Red River Paddle Challenge is a 44-kilometer long distance paddling marathon on the Red River beginning in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and ending down river in Lockport, Manitoba.
September 19 – 20, 2026
Barkfest
Join fellow dog lovers & their furry friends for BarkFest The Ultimutt Dog Party! September 26+27 at Red River Exhibition Park, a weekend-long festival of fun celebrating everything DOGS!
September 26 – 27, 2026
II. Activities in (and near) Winnipeg
Cool Streets
Keep cool this summer in a cool new way. Cool Streets is an initiative to transform Winnipeg’s public spaces through art.
Visit Seven Oaks House
Explore Winnipeg’s oldest remaining homes and learn about daily life in the 19th century of two Métis families.
Around the World in a Few Blocks
Explore the West End’s culinary scene. Around the World in a Few Blocks is a restaurant walking tour that allows participants to sample four superb dishes in the West End.
Go bowling
Enjoy an evening of bowling at a nearby bowling alley.
Explore The Leaf
The Gardens at The Leaf are open at all hours daily to the public. The Leaf has six themed gardens that make up close to 30 acres in the southeast corner of Assiniboine Park. Explore the displays at the Babs Asper Display House at The Leaf, and the outdoor Sensory Garden at The Leaf.
Go on a hike
The Seine River Greenway trail is 1.9 km long and skirts along the Seine River and offers some pretty spectacular views, even if it is in the city. Why not enjoy this fun hike?
Enjoy a horse ride
Go on a drive with your family to Miracle Ranch for horseback riding fun. Beginners can take riding lessons. Enjoy a trail ride.
Walk Winnipeg’s Past
Journey 6000 back to the past on this self-guided tour. Now a bustling urban city, Winnipeg has a rich history which is evident in the many historic sites that are still present. The tour goes through eight historic sites in Winnipeg.
Watch a game of football
Wear your home team colours, get down to Investors Group Field, and cheer the Winnipeg Blue Bombers!
Visit Dalvanert Museum
Go back in time and explore what Winnipeg was like in the older days with a tour of the Dalvanert Museum. Visit the home of Sir Hugh John Macdonald and his family and get a glimpse of our city’s past. This year, the museum is providing the ‘Behind the ropes‘ Walking Tour on Sundays at 10 am throughout summer. This is your chance to learn and experience an up close and personal tour of Dalnavert from inside its many historic rooms.
Explore Exchange District
Winnipeg’s Exchange District is known for its history, galleries, shops, studios, eateries, and its well-planned guided tours. Sign up for one of their tours and learn more about this historic site.
Explore the Marsh
Explore the lesser-explored regions of the Oak Hammock Marsh on a canoe. How wonderful it would be if you had someone guide you.
Go on a guided tour
Explore the Indigenous connections to The Forks during the nine-stop One Heart, Two Rivers, Four Directions tour.
On This Spot
Want more? Other unique historical tours you can try are the tours by ‘On This Spot‘ app, which allows users to compare present photos with past ones.
Have fun at Thunder Rapids Amusement Park
Enjoy a game of mini-golf, batting cages, bumper boats, and go-karts at the Thunder Rapids Amusement Park. Thunder Rapids Amusement Park is open daily from 12 pm to 8 pm.
Lower Fort Garry Adventurers’ Day Camp
Send your kids on a time-travelling adventure this summer! Sign up for the Lower Fort Garry Adventurers’ Day Camp taking place this July and August.
Attend an Art Class
Sign up for summer art classes or workshops at the Winnipeg Art Gallery. There are classes for both young and old at all levels at the WAG Studio.
See where coins are made
Learn how coins are made at the Royal Canadian Mint.
Visit a Cathedral
Tour the French community of St. Boniface. While here, visit the St. Boniface Cathedral and the St. Boniface Museum. The St. Boniface Museum building is the oldest building in Winnipeg and showcases artifacts of Francophone and Métis heritage.
Have fun at a Farm
Plan a trip to Morning Sound Farm. Enjoy pony rides, fed farm animals, and more. Open Fridays and Saturdays.
Play with animals
Don’t forget to explore Aunt Sally’s Farm this summer! The farm is home to little pigs, a herd of goats, and four llamas. You can also find donkeys, miniature horses, and llama.
Visit a Flower Farm
Located just a short distance away is the beautiful flower farm, Sweet Petals Farm. They conduct farm tours in July and workshops in August.
St Norbert Heritage trail
Weaving through the rich cultural heritage of the community of St. Norbert are 9 km of the St Norbert Heritage Trail. This great trail traverses three provincial parks, Manitoba’s largest outdoor summer market, and follows St. Norbert’s primary dike.
An old map
Use an old Winnipeg map to explore today’s Winnipeg and see how the city has changed with time. The map features many architectural features from 1884.
Be one with nature
Does your little one like birds, frogs, butterflies, wetland animals? Go on nature surveys at the Oak Hammock Marsh.
Enjoy closer interactions with animals
Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience behind the scenes at Assiniboine Park Zoo! Guided by Zoo educators and animal care professionals, this is a wonderful opportunity to have closer interactions with your favourite animals.
Have a Picnic
Head out to your favourite park and grab your favourite treats for a day of enjoyment.
Play games
With an amazing array of games, Lasertropia takes you and your kids on a fun journey. This 4500 square foot arena will sure challenge the gamer in you. Join the summer day camp at Lasertopia featuring laser tag challenges, STEM activities, games, arts and crafts, and more!
Go canoeing
Explore Winnipeg with family or friends in a Canoe. If you don’t have a canoe, you can always rent one.
Visit the Zoo
Located at the beautiful Assiniboine Park is the home of many animal species. Head to Assiniboine Park Zoo to see animals from around the world. From polar bears to camels, the Zoo has many species on display.
Spend a day in nature
Prairie, aspen forests and lakes, beautiful birds and bison herds, paddling and fishing you can enjoy them all at FortWhyte Alive.
Where Our Stories Meet
The Forks is offering a tour this summer guided by costumed interpreters! Where Our Stories Meet tour is a fun way to learn about Forks history.
Berry Picking
Who doesn’t enjoy berries? Go for fun-filled strawberry and raspberry picking at Boonstra Farms.
Shop at a Farmer’s Market
Explore Manitoba’s largest open-air market St. Norbert Farmers’ Market. Teach kids about sustainable farming, seasonal produce, get them to spot exotic vegetables, and the importance of supporting local farms by visiting the farmer’s markets in and around Winnipeg.
Visit New Iceland Heritage Museum
The natural history of Lake Winnipeg and its fishing industry as well as the development of New Iceland are the main themes of the New Iceland Heritage Museum at Gimli.
Go fishing
Fish with your little ones in the Red rivers or in the Assiniboine rivers.
Visit Children’s Museum
This summer, ignite your inner scientist in Motion Mania – a thrilling 2,000 sq. ft. interactive journey into motion and energy created by the Ontario Science Centre.
Paintball Time
Today, let’s enjoy a game of paintball!!! Pre-book your visit to Paintball Paradise.
Go on a long hike
Running from Headingly and Cartier to the Beaudry Park is a 10 km trail on an old railway bed. Located right on the edge of Winnipeg, it’s a great way to explore nature and go for a longer hike without actually committing to heading out to a Provincial Park or driving for hours to find a good trail.
Hunt for geocaches
Go on a scavenger hunt! Explore Winnipeg through geocaching.
Visit a Monastery
Explore the ruins of the Trappist Monastery Provincial Heritage Park and learn about the lives of the Trappist monks who once lived here. Pack a picnic and enjoy it with family.
Paint pottery
Enjoy creative together-time while painting pottery at Crock A Doodle. They have two locations in Winnipeg – at 1765 Kenaston Blvd and 1605 Regent Avenue W. Choose the ones nearest to you and have some creative fun.
Explore Winnipeg
Enjoy pleasant family time in harmony with nature while biking or hiking around Winnipeg.
Go Paddling
Summers are a great time to enjoy a relaxing evening of canoeing or kayaking. Canoes and kayaks are available at ForWhyte Alive for rent.
Tuesdays and Thursdays, June 2 – September 3, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Walking tour
The Exchange District’s guided historic walking tours are a must-do. These guided tours led by a knowledgeable tour guide will lead you through different regions of this National Historic Site. You can also go for their self-guided audio walking tour.
Deer Meadow Farms
For fun family time go on a trip to the Deer Meadow Farms. Here, see animals in their pens or go on wagon train rides. Kids can try milking the goat or climb bale towers and tire mountains.
See an old home
Explore the childhood home of Francophone writer Gabrielle Roy. The museum is only open in the summer months.
Have family fun
Climb
Gather your friends for a friendly competition to the top at Vertical Adventures.
Tour a historical site
Go back in time to the fur trade era at Fort Gibraltar. There are a lot of things happening in summer – family days, workshops, historical interpretation, and more.
Visit Lower Fort Garry
Lower Fort Garry offers many fun experiences in summer including metis beadwork, ribbon skirts, and soapstone carving. They also conduct paid worships such as bannock baking, candle making, and blacksmithing It’s going to be fun!
Be an Xplorer
Check out Parks Canada’s Xplorer program for the young ones. Designed for children 6 to 11 years old, this program is packed full of exciting activities, fun facts, and interesting ways to discover Lower Fort Garry, Riel House, and The Forks. They are free with admission.
Explore a tall grass prairie preserve
This summer, visit the Living Prairie Museum to know more about some of the most endangered habitat in the world. This nature park is a tall grass prairie preserve and home to different grass, wildflower species, and prairie wildlife. The great news is that now you can print out their trail guide and start exploring.
Go on a summer trip
Minnedosa is a vibrant community quite near Winnipeg that is accessible on a day trip. Well known for the beaches, visitors here can also enjoy a variety of other activities.
Recreation programs
Participate in the many fun programs and activities held by the City of Winnipeg Recreation.
Go hiking
Hike to the Top of the World! This 4km moderate hike is worth undertaking because it is one of the most beautiful lookouts in Manitoba. The trailhead is located at the Falcon Ridge Ski Slopes Parking Lot. For more details, see Must Visit Scenic Lookouts in Manitoba.
Cheer Goldeyes
Take the kids to a Winnipeg Goldeyes ball game.
A Train Ride
Ride the train with family and enjoy the entertainment aboard the Prairie Dog Central Railway.
Be Amused
Head to this outdoor amusement park with over 20 rides and attractions – the place for fun in the summer! Tinkertown is located at 621 Murdock Road and will be May through August.
See a sundial
Show your kids how you can read time from a sundial at the Oodena Celebration Circle. Teach them about aboriginal people and constellations depicted in the armature.
Eatery tour
Eat out at one of Winnipeg’s Exchange District restaurants with your picky eater. Walk off the extra carbs by touring the district.
Go biking
Explore central Winnipeg neighbourhoods via the 10k Central Winnipeg Bike Loop.
Appreciate art
Introduce your kids to contemporary art! Explore contemporary art galleries in Winnipeg!
Enrol in a summer camp
Let your child engage in fun farm activities at the Aurora Farm Summer Camp.
Cool off with an ice cream
Refresh and cool down with cool treats. There are many places to get ice cream in Winnipeg. Which is your favourite?
Enjoy a dip
Enjoy a glorious summer day at the beaches in Manitoba Provincial Parks.
Have fun at the rooftop
Summer is here, which means WAG’s Rooftop Sculpture Garden is welcoming visitors. With sculptures from the WAG Collection, water fountain, and fresh air this space gives a new dimension to art. Access to rooftop is included with Gallery admission.
Make your escape
Can you make it out on time? Let your teens and tweens help you escape the locked rooms. Take their help in finding the Lost Jewel of Zanzibar or the treasure in Grandma’s Attic.
Visit Human Rights Museum
Encourage your young ones to learn about respect, inclusion, co-operation and fairness. See the stories on human rights and freedom at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.
It’s fun for all!
Gear up for the excitement only racing can provide! Includes mini-golf, bumper cars, and boats, batting cages, water balloons, space ball, shooting gallery, and more!
Play games
Are the kids tired of playing outdoors? Take them indoors to a fun-packed play center.
An outdoor gallery
Want to head out of town? Why not see the Boissevain Outdoor Art Gallery?
Set your mark
Satisfy your inner Katniss and have a la Hunger Games fun at Heights Archery Range.
See aircrafts
Which kid doesn’t love seeing aircrafts? Visit the Air Park and Museum.
Have a walk
Perfect for people of all ages is a 4 km loop located right in Winnipeg. The trail is great for families who are looking for a lovely enjoyable afternoon walk. Can you guess where it is?
Spray Pads
Cool off at spray parks around the city.
Learn electrical history
Manitoba Electrical Museum is the best place to teach your kids about the safe use of electricity. Learn all about electricity generation and get ready for some hair-raising time.
Go mini-golfing
Enjoy mini-golf with your little one at The Golf Dome.
Enjoy a picnic
See a witch’s hut
Explore Hansel and Gretel’s Witch Hut in the Kildonan Park . Open Thursday -Monday 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM during summer.
Splash around
Looking to head somewhere this summer? Splash Island in Portage la Prairie is an amazing adventure water park for all ages. The park has a number of features including giant waterslides, spray area, kiddie slide, fountains, mini-geysers, swimming lanes. There is even a miniature waterfall where one can relax on a bubbler bench while enjoying the beauty of the Island. Located within an hour from Winnipeg, so if you haven’t been to there yet why not check it out this summer?
Want more?
Still have no idea what to do during the summer holidays, why not be a tourist in Winnipeg or plan a Manitoba Road Trip.
View Comments (2)
What a fabulous list!! Thanks so much for this. Looking forward to trying some new adventures this summer. The Canada Day activities are from 2018 though. Maybe they will be updated soon??
Yes. Hopefully before June 15.