Celebrating winter in our community

River Heights

The excitement of the holiday season and festivities won’t last forever, but that doesn’t mean winter fun has to end. Winnipeg, and especially our corner of it, has so much to offer no matter what your interests or hobbies may be.

Our community centres continue to be a hub of fun and gathering in the winter months with sports and special celebrations bringing many of us together.

At the Corydon Community Centre sites, Winterfest will run from Jan. 20-25, 2026. From the annual hockey tournament to the Big Night Social to the Saturday morning pancake breakfast, visit corydoncc.com/winterfest for the full schedule of this fun-filled event.

On Feb. 8, the Linden Woods Community Centre will host its winter festival. Head over for skating, hockey, cross country-skiing on the trails, a ski library provided by Winnipeg Trails Association, a bonfire with marshmallow roasting, and a hot chocolate bar. Check out lindenwoodscc.com/winter-festival for all the details.

You can also bring your sled to try the toboggan slides at the Crescentwood and Sir John sites of the Corydon Community Centre and get in some exciting thrills and spills for the bravest of us.

Once the cold weather is here to stay (and it looks like it is), the outdoor rinks at C.C.C.’s River Heights, Sir John Franklin and Crescentwood sites will be available for public skating during the day and evening.

When the coldest temperatures arrive, you can also hit the Nestaweya river trail or skate under the canopy at The Forks. If skating isn’t for you, check out this year’s warming hut designs along the trail on ice or fat bikes or cross-country skis.

FortWhyte Alive also offers many seasonal events and workshops that embrace the beauty and uniqueness of winter. Visit fortwhyte.org/visit/calendar for all the details, including dates and cost.

And if you want to sneak in a last look at some festive lights, Zoo Lights at Assiniboine Park Zoo runs until Jan. 1, and Canad Inn’s Winter Wonderland at Red River Exhibition Park is on until Jan. 3 . For a free option, check out the Winnipeg Christmas Map, which shows where to find the most festive displays throughout the city.

While we’re celebrating everything all the wonderful parts of our community this season, it’s also important to give back to those who may be struggling and need some extra support during this chilly time.

Koats for Kids collects coats, mitts, boots, and scarves to make sure as many little Winnipeggers as possible are safe and warm during the winter months. With drop-off sites throughout the city, one of the most convenient in our area is Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Station 22 at 1567 Waverley St.

Other excellent organizations, such as Siloam Mission, Centre Flavie, Main Street Project, Bear Clan Patrol, Thunderbird House, Union Gospel Mission and N’Dinawemak collect clothing and household items all year long but often have increased needs for donations as the temperatures become frigid in January and February.

I encourage everyone to give what they can to the groups that matter to them. This could be sharing gently used or new items, making a financial donation or giving the gift of your time as a volunteer.We all have a role to play in supporting our neighbours and taking care of one another is an important part of being part of a strong, vibrant and compassionate community where everyone can enjoy the beauty of the season.