Summer Festivals 2023
Manitoba is buzzing with exciting summer festivals bound to get adrenaline levels pumping. Use this comprehensive list as a reference point to plan a personal line-up extraordinaire.
Winnipeg Folk Festival
Local and national talent returns to the stage at Winnipeg’s iconic outdoor music festival. Catch familiar favourites, like Emmylou Harris, Rufus Wainwright, Vance Joy or discover new voices, all while soaking up sun at Birds Hill Provincial Park. Come hungry — local vendors serve up bold flavours at an over-the-top restaurant strip that trumps traditional festival fare.
Winnipeg Fringe Festival
Thespians from near and far take the spotlight at this beloved annual multi-venue theatre festival, where performances range from traditional to experimental endeavours. A full spectrum of artistic expression takes over Winnipeg’s historic Exchange District, centered in and around Old Market Square, where performers, musicians, and food trucks congregate and electrify the street.
Gimli International Film Festival
The charming lakeside town of Gimli offers avid movie-goers a new experience at its five-day film festival of full-length features, documentaries, and experimental projects. Each night at dusk, throw your towel down for a beach screening and enjoy a flick under the stars.
Manitoba Sunflower Festival in Altona
Local pride shines bright at Altona’s family-friendly summer festival, which has been attracting Manitobans since 1964. Dig in at a free pancake breakfast and compete for the title of Manitoba Sunflower Queen at the gathering’s annual pageant.
Icelandic Festival of Manitoba in Gimli
Home to the largest Icelandic population outside of Iceland, the lakeside town of Gimli celebrates this rich heritage at this annual event. A sandcastle contest, demonstrations of Viking warfare tactics, and rows of artisan booths exhilarate the town and pay homage to its rich history.
Rockin' the Fields of Minnedosa
Headliners The Sheepdogs and The Glorious Sons make this three-day festival a must-see for rock fans in Manitoba. Situated at beautiful Lake Minnedosa, music lovers can swim, golf, fish, and relax between sets.
Folklorama
Winnipeg’s vibrant mix of cultures come together in celebration of their heritage during the world’s largest and longest running multicultural festival. This renowned summer fest celebrates the city’s diversity with food, dance, music, and stories of its people. Indulge in Jamaican stew, tap along to an Irish jig, or catch sight of traditional artwork at one of many pavilions located throughout the city.
Morden Corn & Apple Festival
Launched in 1967 as part of Canada’s Centennial Celebration, this historic three-day festival attracts crowds with street performers, handmade goods, and one of Manitoba’s largest parades. The family-friendly festival lives up to its name and offers free corn on the cob and cool apple juice to attendees.
Whoop & Hollar Festival
Good vibrations are amplified at the intimate outdoor music festival that has been charming small-town hearts since 2015. Strum along to folksy tunes and come together for a relaxing weekend of performance, art, nature, and community in beautiful Portage La Prairie.
ManyFest
Winnipeg’s biggest street festival is back, boasting a wide variety of free, age-inclusive entertainment. Come celebrate in front of the Legislature with music, carnival rides, food trucks, and more.
