The City of Winkler is gearing up for a full day of fun, food, and family-friendly entertainment as it celebrates Canada Day on July 1st. Community Events Coordinator Lucas Dyck says the event is shaping up to be “a full family event,” with something for all ages to enjoy.
“We’ve got lots on the menu for Canada Day,” said Dyck. “There’s a Kid Zone area, lots of entertainment for the kids — glitter tattoos, bouncy castles, bubble soccer, a petting zoo, kids train, and even a chance for kids to meet their favorite characters courtesy of Country Princess.”
Rain or shine, the party’s on
Much of the Kid Zone activity will be indoors this year, taking place inside the Bernard Thiessen Hall and Fieldhouse at the Meridian Exhibition Centre (MEC), which Dyck says is a strategic move.
“We’re going to kind of use that as the Kid Zone space just in case of weather. We want to make sure it still happens, rain or shine,” he explained.
Bubble soccer, provided by Southern Bouncerama, is one of the more unique attractions this year. “It comes with its own arena to keep the ball in play — and to keep you in play when you go flying all over the place,” laughed Dyck. “It doesn’t hurt when you fall down, but you’ll go flying. It’s going to be sweet.”
Music, culture, and community
The Triple E Stage will host live entertainment, including performances from returning crowd-favourites 7 Pines and local duo Brothers Keep.
“7 Pines were such a hit last year that we had to have them back,” said Dyck. “They’re really excited to return — they do some great covers and bring a lot of energy.”
As for Brothers Keep, Dyck says the community is already buzzing about their set. “From everything I’ve heard in the community, they are fantastic. I’m looking forward to hearing them for the first time.”
Culture Fest will also be part of the day’s festivities, featuring booths and cultural displays that celebrate Winkler’s diversity.
Everything’s free — except the snacks
All activities and entertainment at the event are free of charge, including the Kid Zone and stage performances. While food trucks are on-site and items from Culture Fest booths may be available for purchase, there is no cost to take part in the fun.
“This event is meant to be as accessible as possible,” said Dyck. “Everything is free of cost — excluding the food trucks, of course — but all the kids' activities and performances are completely free.”
Food options this year include crowd favourites like Superior Smash Burgers, Lemon Heaven, Dexter’s Mini Doughnuts, and My Boba Lab.
No fireworks? There’s a good eeason
For those wondering why Winkler doesn’t host fireworks on Canada Day, Dyck says it’s a conscious choice by the city to make room for a bigger show later in the summer.
“We definitely save the money and excitement for Harvest Festival,” he explained. “It’s easier not to compete with Morden’s fireworks, and this way both communities get to enjoy their own big nights. Harvest Festival is just a weekend to remember.”
Winkler Canada Day fast facts:
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Date: Monday, July 1st, 2025
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Location: Parkland area west of the Meridian Exhibition Centre (MEC) & Bernard Thiessen Hall
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Admission: Free for all activities and entertainment
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Highlights: Kid Zone, live music, food trucks, bubble soccer, petting zoo, cultural displays
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Entertainment: 7 Pines, Brothers Keep, Culture Fest
Pets are welcome at outdoor activities. Waivers will be required for Kid Zone activities, with staff from Southern Bouncerama on-site to help supervise.