What to do in Winnipeg this Winter (2026)!
Does the warmer February weather have you looking for activities?
You may think that is a joke, but it has been quite pleasant this February with a hot sun (close your eyes and you feel like you are on a beach somewhere), and barely subzero temperatures, we are seeing snow melting already.
Results typical for this time of year? Maybe not. Winter in Winnipeg can at times be cold, but it’s also vibrant, active, and deeply rooted in community traditions.
From skating trails along frozen rivers to world-record snow mazes and cultural festivals celebrating Métis heritage, Winnipeg transforms into a true winter city from December through March.
Rather than slowing down, locals embrace the season and many of the city’s most iconic experiences only exist because of our climate.
Skate (or Stroll) the Nestaweya River Trail
Skating on the Nestaweya River Trail is a classic Winnipeg winter experience. Each year when the trail opens, it becomes the perfect excuse to dust off the skates and enjoy a few outdoor sessions surrounded by snowy riverbanks and city views.
The trail is easily accessed from The Forks, with additional access points along the Assiniboine and Red Rivers. Even if skating isn’t your thing, the trail can be enjoyed on foot, cross‑country skis, or fat‑tire bikes. Rentals are available at The Forks, making it easy to jump in.
One of the highlights each season is the warming huts — creative installations designed through an international arts and architecture competition, offering places to warm up and take it all in.
Check their website as trails open/ close weather permitting
https://www.theforks.com/events/skating-trail-and-park-conditions
Celebrate “Joie de Vivre” at Festival du Voyageur
Festival du Voyageur is the largest winter festival in Western Canada and one of Winnipeg’s most beloved traditions. Each winter, St. Boniface transforms into a lively winter village celebrating Métis and Francophone culture. Check it out this winter February 13th- 22nd 2026
Through music, food, storytelling, snow sculptures, and historical interpretation, the festival brings history to life in a way that’s fun for all ages. From maple taffy on snow to live entertainment and family‑friendly activities, it’s a true celebration of winter — Winnipeg style.
Explore FortWhyte Alive
FortWhyte Alive is a nature centre and wildlife refuge dedicated to connecting people with the outdoors — even in the heart of winter. With over 640 acres of protected green space, it offers endless opportunities to enjoy the season.
In winter, visitors can explore the trails by snowshoe, cross‑country ski, or fat‑tire bike, or even try ice fishing. FortWhyte is also home to the Richardson Rrrun Toboggan Slide, which sends riders racing out onto a frozen lake — a favourite for both kids and adults.
Equipment rentals and winter programming make FortWhyte Alive an ideal place to try something new and embrace crisp winter air.
Get Lost at A Maze in Corn’s Snow Maze
A Maze in Corn is home to the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest snow maze, making it a must‑visit winter attraction. The snow maze is expected to open either January 24th or 29th 2026 -Check their website for details
https://www.cornmaze.ca/pages/snowmaze
Visitors can enjoy snow carvings, a giant luge run, slides down Snow Mountain, bonfires to keep warm, and a variety of winter games. Afterward, warm up with hot chocolate — or an adult beverage — at the Snow Bar.
Also be sure to check out The Den. This dining experience is like no other- The Den is sow carved restaurant made out of over 500,000 pounds of snow. Surrounded by ice sculptures, and walls carved with art, this winter dining experience is something that can only be experiences in climates like ours! The Den is taking reservations for 2026 through their website.
https://www.thedenrestaurant.ca/
Unwind at Thermëa by Nordik Spa‑Nature
While Thermëa is open year‑round, winter is arguably the most magical time to visit. There’s something special about relaxing in outdoor thermal pools while snow falls around you.
Inspired by Scandinavian spa traditions, Thermëa offers steam rooms, Finnish saunas, relaxation areas, heated hammocks, and fire pits — the perfect place to slow down and recharge during the colder months.
Get out and Enjoy the city’s Cross Country Ski Trails
The City of Winnipeg’s Parks and Open Space Division grooms trails throughout local parks and golf courses weekly (weather permitting), and they’re completely free to use! Winnipeg is known for having some of the best groomed classic ski trails in the province, and it shows in how many people you see out enjoying them every season, from longtime skiers to families and school groups trying it for the first time. It’s one of those simple things that makes winter here feel a little more special. Check out all of the different trails to explore here:
https://legacy.winnipeg.ca/publicworks/parksopenspace/ThingsToDo/XCountrySki.stm
Winter, the Winnipeg Way
This list is just a glimpse of what “Winterpeg” has to offer. Winnipeg winters may be cold, but they’re also full of culture, community, and experiences that make the season something to look forward to.
So bundle up, get outside, enjoy the fresh winter air — and don’t forget to cozy back in afterward. Winter in Winnipeg is meant to be experienced.
Frequently Asked Questions About Winter in Winnipeg
Is Winnipeg too cold to enjoy in winter?
Winnipeg experiences extended periods below freezing, but the city is built for winter. Infrastructure, programming, and public spaces are designed to encourage outdoor activity.
Many residents find winter to be one of the most community-oriented seasons of the year.
What are the most popular winter activities in Winnipeg?
Some of the most popular winter activities include:
Skating the Nestaweya River Trail
Attending Festival du Voyageur
Snowshoeing or skiing at FortWhyte Alive
Exploring the snow maze at A Maze in Corn
Relaxing at Thermëa
Cross-country skiing on city-groomed trails
When does winter start in Winnipeg?
Winter weather typically begins in late November or December and lasts through March. Outdoor ice trails and snow-based attractions open once conditions are safe and sustainable.
Is Winnipeg a good city for people who enjoy winter sports?
Yes. Winnipeg offers accessible outdoor recreation within city limits, including skating, skiing, snowshoeing, and winter festivals.
For residents who embrace cold weather activities, Winnipeg provides unique experiences not available in milder climates.
What makes Winnipeg winters unique compared to other Canadian cities?
Winnipeg’s flat geography and cold, stable temperatures allow for large-scale frozen river trails and world-record snow attractions. Combined with strong cultural festivals and community programming, winter here feels immersive rather than isolating.
Key Takeaways: Winter in Winnipeg
Winnipeg winters are cold but culturally vibrant
Outdoor skating trails run along frozen rivers
Festival du Voyageur celebrates Métis and Francophone heritage
Nature-based winter activities are accessible within city limits
Unique attractions like the world’s largest snow maze exist because of our climate
Residents embrace winter rather than avoid it
Did I miss anything in this List? Let me know!
Your Friend in Real Estate,
Samantha Scribilo Kusiak
Tel: (204) 960-8851
Email: Samantha@QueenTeam.ca
About the Author
Written by Samantha Scribilo Kusiak, REALTOR® with The Queen Team at Ethos Realty, proudly serving Winnipeg and surrounding communities.
Sam works with buyers and sellers throughout Winnipeg and is passionate about helping clients experience not just the real estate market — but the lifestyle that comes with living here. From neighbourhood insights to local events and seasonal highlights, she believes loving where you live starts long before move-in day.