Winnipeg guide to spring and summer festivals
From the joyous atmosphere of the Winnipeg Folk Festival to the multicultural extravaganza of Folklorama, Winnipeg’s summer events are as dynamic as the people who attend them.
Whether you’re into surrounding stages at the Fringe Festival or simply swaying to some pretty sweet tunes, this city’s summer festival lineup has something for you.
Here are the hottest summer festivals in Winnipeg you won’t want to miss!
Pride Winnipeg Festival (opens in new window) | May 26-June 7, 2026
Celebrate Pride Winnipeg’s 38th year at vibrant festivities all around the city. More than 45+ community organized events lay the foundation for the week-long 2SLGBTQIA+ celebration, which culminates with a rally at the Legislature followed by a massive parade that leads to the festival at The Forks. With over 50+ performers –– from drag queens to musicians and comedians –– taking part in everything from small shows to marquee performances on the Forks’ mainstage, you don’t want to miss this celebration of love and inclusivity for everyone.
Doors Open Winnipeg (opens in new window) | May 30-31, 2026
Uncover Winnipeg’s rich history on a free tour with Heritage Winnipeg! Explore and learn about the city’s historic landmarks and buildings during one exciting weekend where expert guides reveal the stories behind these fantastic facades.
Manitoba Electronic Music Exhibition (opens in new window) | June 4-6, 2026
The top electronic music and digital arts festival in Western Canada showcases cutting-edge international sound workshops and performances. Come together with thousands of others for free electronic shows at Old Market Square in the Exchange District.
Winnipeg International Children’s Festival (Kidsfest) (opens in new window) | June 11-14, 2026
Enjoy a lively, family-friendly festival featuring interactive workshops and thrilling live performances like quirky circus acts, acrobatics, and more. Winnipeg International Children’s Festival’s Kidsfest is an annual event at The Forks, this year taking place on the CN Stage and Field and at Manitoba Theatre for Young People.
The EX (opens in new window) | June 12-21, 2026
Take in Winnipeg’s favourite summer fair as it returns to kick off the season! With over 50 midway rides, food trucks, live music, petting zoos and more, it’s the ultimate family event. Make this summer unforgettable with a ride or two!
TD Winnipeg International Jazz Festival (opens in new window) | June 16-21, 2026
Winnipeg’s largest downtown music event marks 35 years with 10 days of incredible live music from renowned local, national and international artists – including legendary Grammy-winning bassist Richard Bona. Join fellow music lovers for the TD Winnipeg International Jazz Festival, happening in the heart of the city and the historic Exchange District.
Summer of Sound (opens in new window) | June 30 & July 1, 2026
Get sweaty under the sun as you cut shapes, lock, shuffle and well, dance it up during the largest EDM (that’s electronic dance music) festival in central Canada. This all ages two-day celebration features top DJs from across the continent, with headliners this year including SIDEPIECE, TWINSICK, Joel Corry, Two Friends and XANDRA. It all takes place at Red River Exhibition Grounds.
Winnipeg Folk Festival (opens in new window) | July 9-12, 2026
The Winnipeg Folk Festival is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a lineup of familiar faces and headlining bands. This internationally acclaimed festival is noted for both its breezy vibes and diverse acts, with more than 70 performers across nine stages this year. With an award-winning family area, camping, delicious local food, and a stunning prairie park setting, it’s the perfect place to celebrate summer.
Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival (opens in new window) | July 15-26, 2026
Relish live performances covering everything from drama to kids’ entertainment, comedy and more at North America’s second-largest Fringe Festival. With over 140 local, national, and international theatre companies, there’s plenty to choose from –– plus, you can catch free shows on the iconic Cube Stage in Old Market Square.
Great Outdoors Comedy Festival (opens in new window) | July 17-19, 2026
Buckle up for a weekend of laughs under an open sky within beautiful Assiniboine Park! Enjoy live comedy from top comedians like John Mulaney, Whitney Cummings, Jeremy Piven and Martin Short, plus local entertainment and food trucks in this chill setting. This 18+ event is the perfect summer escape you don’t want to miss!
Folklorama (opens in new window) | August 2-15, 2026
Travel the world without leaving Winnipeg at Folklorama, the largest and longest-running multicultural festival of its kind (opens in new window). A nightly ticket is your passport to world-class entertainment, delicious cuisines, vibrant displays, and immersive cultural experiences celebrating the richness of global cultures and the arts.