The Manitoba government is investing an additional $1 million in the Park Community Centre in Brandon, enabling the city to issue a request for proposal (RFP) and accelerate the revitalization of the Park Community Centre and non-profit child-care facility in downtown Brandon, Premier Wab Kinew and Municipal and Northern Relations Minister Glen Simard announced here today. “This investment in the Park Community Centre is about making life easier for working families in Brandon,” said Kinew. “It means more access to affordable, quality child care right in the heart of downtown and a revitalized space where people can come together for recreation, culture and community.” “We committed to completing the Park Community Centre, an important resource for the people of Brandon, and the province stepped up,” said Simard. “Brandon families deserve affordable child care in a safe and inclusive space that offers uplifting programs and services for the whole family.” A key component of the redevelopment of the Park Community Centre will be a licensed, non-profit child-care facility, ensuring more families in Brandon have access to affordable, high-quality care close to home. “This funding is a win for Brandon. It means we can get shovels in the ground and start turning the Park Community Centre into something really useful for families,” said Mayor Jeff Fawcett, City of Brandon. “With the YMCA stepping in to run the new child-care facility, we’re making sure parents have more options where they live and work. It’s practical, it’s local and it’s going to make a real difference.” The neighbouring YMCA of Brandon, which recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to provide care and operate the new 68-space facility, will manage the child-care centre. “The Park Community Centre has been a longtime hub of concerts and community gatherings in Brandon,” said Ken Friedrich, president, Park Community Centre. “With the Manitoba government’s generous financial contribution and the addition of the child care centre our community and city will thrive for generations to come.” This project reflects the Manitoba government’s commitment to expanding child care access through community partnerships and support for local, non-profit operators, Kinew noted.

Downtown Brandon will soon transform into a winter wonderland as the annual Brandon Santa Parade returns on Saturday, November 22, 2025, beginning at 6:00 p.m. The beloved community tradition is expected to draw plenty of residents and visitors eager to celebrate the start of the holiday season. The parade will wind its way through the heart of downtown, travelling along Rosser Avenue and Princess Avenue, featuring dozens of brightly decorated floats, festive music, and plenty of community spirit. Local  businesses and organizations will once again showcase their creativity with dazzling displays, while children and families eagerly await the grand finale — the arrival of Santa Claus himself. Each year, the parade highlights a special theme. Last year’s celebration, “Christmas Around the World,” paid tribute to the many cultures and traditions that make up the Brandon community. Organizers promise another memorable theme this season :Winter Wonderland" ensuring a magical experience for all ages. The event is free to attend, and spectators are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the route. As always, attendees are reminded to dress warmly, as the evening parade often coincides with chilly November weather. In addition to the festive floats, the Canada Post food drive will take place during the parade. Volunteers will collect non-perishable food items to support the Brandon Christmas Cheer Board, helping local families in need during the holiday season. The parade’s festive lights, music, and family atmosphere make it one of the most anticipated events of the year in Brandon. From young children waiting to see Santa to adults enjoying the nostalgia and sense of togetherness, the parade truly captures the spirit of the season. So bundle up, grab a hot chocolate, and head downtown on November 22 to take part in one of Brandon’s most cherished holiday traditions — the Brandon Santa Parade.  

Brandon Salutes is proud to host the “Salute to Veterans” concert Sunday, November 2nd at 1:00pm at Brandon City Hall. The is a FREE event featuring the music of the  Royal Winnipeg Rifles Band and the 26th Field Regiment Pipes and Drums. Enjoy an afternoon of great music honouring our military history and veterans. Proudly supported by the Royal Canadian Legion and the Army, Navy and Air Force Veterans Association. The Brandon Salutes is mission statement is: “to foster unity of the military and civilian communities in Westman, based on a mutual respect of their unique contribution toward a strong and proud partnership.”

4-H Manitoba is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarships. The Manitoba Government generously established a $1 million endowment fund with the Brandon Area Community Foundation, which provided $38,126 for scholarships this year. Four outstanding 4-H Manitoba members were selected to receive scholarships in support of their post-secondary education. “We’re very proud of this year’s scholarship recipients and excited to see where their paths take them,” said Greg Penner, President of 4-H Manitoba. “Each of them has shown real leadership, dedication, and a commitment to their communities. Supporting them as they take the next step in their education helps build a strong future for Manitoba.” 4-H Manitoba’s mission is to build leadership in youth and adults while developing essential life and leadership skills as members “Learn To Do By Doing.” “One hundred and twelve years ago, Canada’s 4-H movement began here in Manitoba, paving the way for a long and successful history of opportunities for Manitoba’s youth to develop leadership and communication skills while learning about agriculture and environmental sustainability,” said Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn. “On behalf of the Manitoba government, I congratulate all of the 2025 scholarship recipients and extend my heartfelt wishes as they head toward a bright future in our province.”

This past Saturday evening, Canadian icons Blue Rodeo took the stage at Westoba Place at the Keystone Centre in Brandon as part of their “Lost Together – The 40th Anniversary Tour”. The evening consisted  of their classic hits, heartfelt storytelling, and dynamic live performance. They were joined on the tour by guest artist Adam Baldwin, who opened the show with his own flavour of East Coast-soul rock. All photos by Scramble Studio.