Top Winter Festivals in Winnipeg (and How to Stay Warm While You Enjoy Them)

Winnipeg comes alive in winter — big outdoor festivals, lit parks, skating trails and family events give locals plenty to do. This guide lists the best Winnipeg winter events, what to expect at each, and practical tips to keep you warm, safe, and enjoying the day from morning to night

Festival du Voyageur (biggest Winnipeg winter festival)

Festival du Voyageur is Western Canada’s largest winter festival — a multi-day celebration with music, food, live performances, snow sculptures, and family activities in the St. Boniface area. Expect outdoor stages, heated tents, food vendors with hearty local fare, and large crowds on peak days.

Why go: cultural performances, unique winter food, large snow sculptures, and an authentic winter atmosphere.
Pro tip: visit mid-week if you prefer smaller crowds; check the festival schedule for evening indoor shows to warm up between outdoor activities.

Zoo Lights at Assiniboine Park (family-friendly light displays)

Zoo Lights at Assiniboine Park & Zoo features illuminated trails, animated displays, and evening programming that create a glowing winter experience for all ages. Timed-ticket entry helps manage crowds and makes planning easier.

Why go: magical lights, great photo opportunities, family-friendly strolls that don’t require long outdoor commitment.
Pro tip: buy timed-entry ticket

We Are Winter & Assiniboine Park winter programming

Seasonal programming at Assiniboine Park includes glow skates, family activities, and community-focused winter weekends. These events are ideal for trying skating, evening glow-skates, and low-cost family fun.

Why go: community atmosphere, beginner-friendly activities, and lively park installations.
Pro tip: bring a thermos with a warm drink and plan a set warm-up meeting spot in case your group separates.

Winter at The Forks & The Forks Winter Park

The Forks is a winter hub — skating trails, toboggan runs, Winter Park installations, warming huts, and The Forks Market. It’s ideal for combining outdoor activity with indoor food and shopping.

Why go: long skating trails, tobogganing, and easy access to indoor warm-up spaces and restaurants.
Pro tip: rent skates if you don’t own any, and map out the nearest heated stop (Forks Market or nearby cafés) for planned warm-up breaks.

Seasonal pop-ups and ice installations

Winnipeg sometimes hosts ice castles, themed light walks, and temporary pop-up winter installations around museums and public spaces. These ticketed attractions draw crowds and offer unique photo ops.

Pro tip: visit on weekday evenings or early afternoons to avoid peak crowds and lines.

How to stay warm and comfortable at Winnipeg winter events

1. Dress in layers: base layer + insulating mid-layer + windproof outer shell. Use synthetics or merino for base layers, not cotton.
2. Warm footwear & socks: insulated, waterproof boots with wool or synthetic socks reduce heat loss.
3. Hand warmers & quick warming items: single-use or rechargeable hand warmers extend comfort between venues.
4. Plan warm-up stops: identify cafés, heated tents, market stalls or indoor venues where your group can warm up.
5. Use transit or close drop-off points: minimize exposure by parking or using transit near event entrances.
6. Hydrate and eat warm foods: hot drinks and soups help maintain body temperature.
7. Safety first: never use generators or open-flame heaters indoors; follow event safety rules.

Family-friendly picks & accessibility notes

• Best for families: light displays and community park programming (short walkable routes and timed entry).
• Best for cultural experiences: larger festivals with performances and food markets.
• Accessibility tips: check event pages for accessible entrances, warm-up shelters, and stroller-friendly routes; plan for bathroom and warm-up needs if you have small children or mobility concerns.

Tickets, timing and weather planning

• Buy tickets in advance for popular events to secure entry and avoid queues.
• Weekday visits typically mean fewer crowds; weekend evenings are busiest.
• Check event updates for weather-related changes or cancellations; organizers often post live updates on event days.

Local tie-ins for homeowners and small businesses

• Warm-up offers: local cafés, stores or service providers can offer “festival warm-up” specials or small promos tied to events.
• Cross-promotion: highlight local vendors and festival food options in short follow-up posts to attract local searchers.
• Content hooks: create micro-posts like “Best Places to Warm Up After Zoo Lights” to capture quick local searches.

Sample weekend plan: stay warm and see the highlights

• Afternoon: start at The Forks for skating and Winter Park, grab lunch at an indoor market.
• Late afternoon: visit a park glow-skate or family activity to enjoy shorter outdoor exposure.
• Evening: finish at a big festival for music, heated tents, or light displays.