Winnipeg & Southeast Manitoba Christmas Events 2025

by Brad Elias

Let’s be honest: by the time late November hits in Manitoba, we are all collectively questioning our life choices. Why do we live in a place where the air physically hurts our faces? Why do we voluntarily scrape ice off windshields at 7:00 AM?

Here is the answer: We do it for the community. We do it for the grit. And we do it because nobody—and I mean nobody—does Christmas like Winnipeg and Southeast Manitoba.

You have two options this winter. You can hibernate under a duvet, watching the same three movies until the snow melts in May. Or, you can layer up like an onion, embrace the chaos, and experience the absolute magic that this province offers when the temperature drops.

If you are moving to Winnipeg or you’ve recently bought a home in Southeast Manitoba, welcome to the club. We don’t hide from winter here; we decorate it. We flood the rinks, we light up the parks, and we turn the frozen landscape into a playground.

Since it is already late November 2025, the season is officially open. This isn’t just a quick list; this is your massive, no-fluff, "how-to-survive-and-thrive" handbook for the holidays. We are covering everything from the massive city light shows to the hidden gems in Niverville and Grunthal, plus where to get tickets, where to eat, and how to keep your toes attached to your body.

Here is the ultimate guide to the 2025 Christmas events that make the frostbite worth it.

The Winnipeg Classics:

These are the events that define the season. If you are new to the area, hosting in-laws, or just want that quintessential "Winterpeg" feeling, these are non-negotiable.

1. Zoo Lights at Assiniboine Park

Dates: November 21, 2025 – January 1, 2026
Location: Assiniboine Park Zoo, Winnipeg
The Lowdown: This isn’t just a few strings of lights thrown on a fence. This is a full-blown production. The Assiniboine Park Zoo transforms into a glowing, immersive wonderland featuring millions of lights and massive illuminated animal sculptures. It is one of the few places where you can wander through a "Tundra Trail" that actually feels like the tundra.
Why it matters: If you are looking at Winnipeg homes for sale in neighbourhoods like Tuxedo, Charleswood, or St. James, having this world-class event in your backyard is a massive lifestyle perk. It creates a community hub that is walkable and family-focused.
Insider Tip: Halfway through the route, there is usually a large tent or dome with live entertainment and, more importantly, heaters. Plan your walk to take a break there. Also, the line for mini-donuts will be long—send one person to wait while the rest of the group looks at the polar bear lights.
Get Tickets: assiniboinepark.ca

2. Canad Inns Winter Wonderland

Dates: November 28, 2025 – January 3, 2026
Location: Red River Exhibition Park, West Perimeter Hwy
The Lowdown: Located at the Red River Ex grounds, this is the ultimate "I don't want to get out of my heated car" event. It is a massive drive-thru light show featuring over one million lights. You tune your radio to a specific frequency for a synced soundtrack and cruise through at 5 km/h.
The Reality Check: The lineup on Friday and Saturday nights can back up onto the Perimeter Highway. If you have small kids who need a bathroom, this is a dangerous game. Go on a Tuesday or Wednesday evening if you can.
Why go: It is the most accessible event for seniors or those with mobility issues because you never leave your vehicle. It’s pure nostalgia.
Get Tickets: redriverex.com

3. RWB’s The Nutcracker

Dates: December 19 – 27, 2025
Location: Centennial Concert Hall, Winnipeg
The Lowdown: The Royal Winnipeg Ballet is one of the best companies in the world, and their Nutcracker is legendary. What makes it special is the Canadian twist—keep an eye out for the opening scene which features a hockey game on a frozen pond, Mounties, and the parliament buildings.
The Vibe: This is the one time of year you can swap your faded Jets hoodie for a blazer or a dress. It feels sophisticated, cultural, and incredibly special.
Real Estate Angle: Living in or near the Exchange District puts you walking distance from this culture. For buyers moving to Winnipeg from larger cities like Toronto or Vancouver, the RWB is a reminder that you don't lose culture by moving to the Prairies; you actually gain access to it (and for a better ticket price).
Get Tickets: rwb.org

The Outdoor Adventures (For the Brave)

If you prefer snowpants over dress pants, these events are for you. This is about embracing the elements.

4. FortWhyte Alive: Alive in the Woods

Dates: Select weekends in December 2025
Location: FortWhyte Alive, Southwest Winnipeg
The Lowdown: FortWhyte is a gem. During the holidays, they host "Alive in the Woods," which is less about flashy neon lights and more about bonfires, roasting marshmallows, and walking through quiet, snowy trails.
Why it’s different: It’s peaceful. If the Zoo Lights feel too overstimulating or commercial, FortWhyte is the antidote. It connects you with nature. You can often spot deer on the trails, and the frozen lakes are stunning.
Activity: Tobogganing on the "Richardson Rrrun" is legendary. It’s an icy, fast chute that will terrify you in the best way possible.
Get Tickets: fortwhyte.org

5. The CPKC Holiday Train

Dates: Early December 2025 (Check specific schedule for Winnipeg & Whitemouth stops)
Location: Stops typically include Whitemouth, Winnipeg (Panet Road), and Portage la Prairie.
The Lowdown: This is a literal train covered in lights that rolls into town, folds down a stage from a boxcar, and hosts a live concert with major musical acts. It raises money and food for local food banks.
Why it’s a rush: There is something incredibly cool about standing by the tracks in the freezing cold, watching this glowing train approach from the distance. The energy is electric.
Southeast Connection: For those living in Southeast Manitoba, catching the train in Whitemouth is often a better experience than the city stop. It feels more intimate, less crowded, and truly captures that small-town Christmas spirit.
Cost: Free! But bring non-perishable food donations.
Schedule: cpkcr.com

The "New" Additions & High Demand Tickets

These sell out fast. If you are reading this on November 26th, you need to book these now.

6. Prairie Dog Central’s Santa Express

Dates: Weekends in December (Until Dec 21)
Location: Inkster Junction Station (Rosser, just outside Winnipeg)
The Lowdown: A vintage locomotive train ride with Santa on board. It doesn't get more classic than this. The train travels to Grosse Isle and back. During the trip, Santa visits every child, and there is usually hot chocolate and cookies involved.
Who it’s for: Families with kids under 10. The look on their faces when the steam engine pulls up is priceless.
Why rush? This sells out months in advance sometimes. If you see tickets available, grab them immediately.
Get Tickets: pdcrailway.com

7. The WAG-Qaumajuq Holiday Events

Dates: Various throughout December
Location: Winnipeg Art Gallery, Downtown
The Lowdown: Since the opening of Qaumajuq (the Inuit art centre), the WAG has become an even bigger cultural hub. Their holiday programming often includes Indigenous artisan markets, choir performances in the main hall, and winter-themed art workshops.
The aesthetic: If you want a photo for your Instagram that screams "refined winter aesthetic," the white stone architecture of Qaumajuq is the place.
Get Tickets: wag.ca

Southeast Manitoba: The Local Gems

This is where the "community" aspect of real estate really shines. I sell a lot of homes in Steinbach, Niverville, and Lorette, and the number one thing people ask me is, "Is there anything to do there?"

The answer is yes. In fact, the events here often beat the city events because of the hospitality.

8. Steinbach: Winter in the Village at MHV

Dates: Kicks off with "Light Up the Village" on December 6, 2025.
Location: Mennonite Heritage Village, Steinbach
The Lowdown: The MHV is an open-air museum. In winter, they light up the heritage buildings, flood a skating pond near the windmill, and offer sleigh rides.
The Atmosphere: It is quiet, dark, and beautiful. It feels like stepping into a history book or a Hallmark movie. The sensory experience of smelling woodsmoke and hearing sleigh bells is unmatched.
Why move to Steinbach? It’s this kind of wholesome, safe, family-focused programming that attracts buyers from Winnipeg who are looking to leave the city for more space.
Get Tickets: mennoniteheritagevillage.com

9. Grunthal: Snow Place Like Home

Dates: Dec 19 – 31, 2025
Location: Grunthal Fairgrounds
The Lowdown: Hanover Ag puts on an incredible drive-thru light display. It is run by volunteers who genuinely love their town.
Don't Miss:
- Dec 20: Tim Hortons Night (Free hot drinks).
- Dec 21: The Santa Stop.
The Reality: It’s a short drive from St. Malo, St-Pierre-Jolys, or Kleefeld. It’s affordable (usually by donation or low cost), and it supports the local ag society.
Get Tickets: hanoverag.com

The "Shop Local" Scene (Markets)

Stop buying generic gifts from Amazon. The best shopping happens at the pop-ups.

12. Third + Bird Winter Pop-Ups

Dates: December 12 & 13, 2025
Location: The Bay Downtown (or Convention Centre - check ticket)
The Lowdown: This is the Super Bowl of craft markets. It is curated, stylish, and packed with incredible local vendors.
What to buy: Local honey, beeswax candles, incredible jewelry, and Manitoba-themed apparel.
Get Tickets: thirdandbird.com

The "Après-Event" Guide: Where to Eat

You’ve looked at the lights. You are frozen to the bone. You need food. Here is where a local would go.

If you are at The Zoo / FortWhyte:

The Park Café: Located right in Assiniboine Park. Great for a cozy dinner, but book a reservation.
Sargent Sundae: Yes, they are open in winter (usually). Eating ice cream in -30 is a Winnipeg power move.
Underdogs: located on Portage Ave, great for wings and a beer to warm up after the walk.

If you are in Steinbach:

Chinos: A cozy, wood fire bistro surrounded a stunning garden centre decked out for Christmas
Doener Grill: If you want something quick and hot.
Bigg Smoak BBQ: Located in Steinbach, this is comfort food central. Brisket, mac and cheese, cornbread.

If you are Downtown (The Nutcracker / The Forks):

The Common: Inside The Forks Market. Grab a beer or wine and sit by the fireplace.
Clementine: (For brunch the next day).
Kevin’s Bistro: Mac and cheese specialty. It’s warm, gooey, and perfect for winter.

The Homeowner's Winter Survival Guide

Since I am a REALTOR®, I can’t let you go through winter without a little bit of house talk. While you are out enjoying these events, your house is fighting a battle against the elements.

1. The "Away Mode" Strategy If you are driving from Steinbach to Winnipeg for the Nutcracker and staying overnight, or heading to Grunthal for the evening:

Thermostat: Don't turn your heat off. Set it to 17°C or 18°C. You want to save energy, but you don't want your pipes to freeze.
Lights: Leave a porch light on or set a timer. Dark houses at 5:00 PM look empty. Smart bulbs are a $20 investment that makes your home look occupied.

2. Winter Curb Appeal Thinking of selling your home in the winter?

Shovel the Walk: Even if you aren't showing the house. A clean driveway says "this house is well-maintained." A snowy driveway says "the owner is lazy and probably ignores the furnace filter too."
Lighting: With the sun setting at 4:30 PM, outdoor lighting is crucial. Make sure your house number is visible.
Decor: Tasteful Christmas decor actually helps sell homes. A wreath on the door and some warm white lights make a house feel like a home. Just don't go Griswold if you're listing.

3. The Commute Factor Many of my clients ask about the commute from Southeast Manitoba to Winnipeg in winter.

Highway 1 & 59: These are priority highways. They are usually plowed first.
The Reality: Living in Niverville or Lorette means a 25-30 minute commute. In winter, add 15 minutes when it is blowing snow. It’s not bad, but you need good winter tires.
The Trade-off: You drive a bit longer, but you come home to a larger lot, a quiet street, and that small-town peace. For many, it’s worth the extra podcast time.

A Local's Guide to Dressing for These Events

I see people at Zoo Lights in running shoes and denim jackets, and I want to cry for them. Don't be that person.

The Manitoba 3-Layer Rule:

Base: Merino wool or synthetic. No cotton. Cotton gets wet and you get cold.
Mid: Fleece or a thick sweater.
Shell: A windproof, insulated parka.

The Extremities:

Boots: Rated to -30°C. Fashion boots have no place at the CPKC Holiday Train. You will be standing on frozen gravel.
Mittens > Gloves: Mittens keep fingers together, sharing warmth. Gloves isolate fingers, leading to freezing.
Hot Paws: Buy a box of those chemical hand warmers. Put them in your boots and your mitts. Thank me later.

The Bottom Line

2025 has been a busy year. The market has been active, interest rates have been a topic of conversation at every dinner table, and life feels like it’s moving at 100 miles per hour.

Christmas is our chance to slow down.

Whether you are skating at The Forks under the canopy, drinking hot cider in Steinbach, or just driving through Canad Inns with the kids in the back seat, take a breath. Look at the lights. Appreciate where we live.

Manitoba winters are tough, yes. But they forge a community that is tighter, warmer, and more resilient than anywhere else. We endure the cold together, and we celebrate the warmth together.

Have an incredible holiday season. Stay warm, drive safe, and enjoy the lights.