Firefighters dedicate their lives to protecting others often stepping into danger when everyone else is stepping away. Their work demands courage, skill, and compassion, whether battling flames, responding to medical emergencies, or supporting their communities through crisis. International Firefighters’ Day exists to honour that commitment — to recognize the sacrifices made, the lives saved, and the quiet moments of service that rarely make headlines. It reminds us that safety doesn’t happen by chance; it’s earned through the relentless effort of those who answer the call, day and night. Firefighters’ Day is not just a celebration — it’s a promise to never forget the people who keep our communities safe.

A new chapter in Brandon’s growing craft beer scene officially got underway recently as the Trans Canada Brewing Company held a groundbreaking ceremony for its highly anticipated expansion into the Wheat City. The project, located near the intersection of the Trans-Canada Highway and Highway 10 (105 Middleton Ave), marks the company’s first major expansion outside of Winnipeg. The new facility is expected to include a taproom, on-site brewing capabilities, and a full food menu, offering a similar experience to its flagship location while introducing exclusive, locally brewed products. Company representatives and community leaders gathered to celebrate the milestone, highlighting the economic and social benefits the development is expected to bring. The brewery has pointed to Brandon’s growing population and emerging craft beer market as key reasons for choosing the city, calling it an “exciting” opportunity to connect with a new customer base. Construction is underway with an anticipated opening in 2026, adding another unique attraction to Brandon’s business landscape and continuing the city’s steady growth in hospitality and tourism.    

Ficek Insurance (Murray Chrysler Building) is changing locations May 4th. The new address will be 1525 18th Street Brandon, MB right beside Humpty's Diner. “The Hansel and Gretel’s Schnitzel Haus” is reopening at 363-st Street. The restaurant will offer a delightful taste of authentic German cuisine including crispy pork schnitzel and flavorful chicken schnitzel. Dustin Glaseman is now the owner of Lasting Image Picture Framing located at 708 B 10th Street in Brandon. Brandon realtor Cam Toews recently won the Brian M. Collie Award for "Individual Achievement in Provincial Advocacy recognizes a REALTOR® who has gone above and beyond to advance our profession at the provincial level. "  Click here for more info. Starting May 4th, Planet Kia will be temporarily moving to  3620 Victoria Ave (right beside the Victoria Inn) as they build a new state-of-the-art space at 415 18th Street North.

After more than four decades of serving families in the community, the Pizza Hut location in Brandon at 860-18th Street is set to close its dine-in service on June 15, 2026. In a statement, management said the decision was not made lightly, but came after careful consideration of changing customer habits and operational needs. While the traditional dine-in experience will be phased out, the restaurant will still offer limited seating, allowing customers to enjoy their meals on-site. Service, however, will shift to a counter-order model. The transition will also include some interior renovations aimed at modernizing the space and better supporting take-out and delivery operations. Despite the change, customers can continue to rely on both Brandon locations (860-18th Street, 1860-18th St N)  for delivery and take-out options, ensuring the brand remains a familiar and convenient choice in the city. The move reflects a broader trend in the restaurant industry, as businesses adapt to evolving dining preferences while maintaining their presence in the community.

The City of Brandon in partnership with Brandon Downtown BIZ is issuing a  call to artists, property owners, and community members to apply for the 2026 Downtown  Outdoor Art Grant. The current intake period is now open and will close on May 31, 2026.  The Downtown Outdoor Art Grant is funded by the City of Brandon in partnership with the  Brandon Downtown BIZ, with additional funding from the Brandon Area Community  Foundation. This collaborative investment reflects a shared commitment to strengthening  downtown through creative placemaking and community-driven initiatives.  Building on the strong momentum of last year’s program, the Downtown Outdoor Art Grant  continues to support creative projects that enhance public spaces and contribute to a  vibrant and engaging downtown.   Applicants are encouraged to bring forward a wide range of ideas. Whether fully developed  or in early stages, the Brandon Downtown BIZ welcomes conversations with anyone  interested in exploring a potential project and can provide guidance throughout the  application process.  “We’re looking for a variety of art forms to enhance downtown Brandon,” said Emmy  Sanderson, Executive Director of Brandon Downtown BIZ. “From murals and installations  to interactive and community-driven concepts, we encourage people to think outside the  box and propose all different types of art. It could be a sculpture, a light installation, or an  interactive display, which could be permanent, or temporary. We would also love to see  community members come together in partnership.” In 2025, six projects were approved, with two already completed and an additional four  scheduled for completion this year. Community members can already experience the  impact of the program through completed works, including a mural on Compass Credit   Union by Manitoba artist Nereo Zorro and a community art project led by local artist Chris  Reid at Samaritan House Ministries. These projects highlight how the program brings  creativity into everyday spaces while fostering community connection.  The program has been widely embraced by the community for its positive impact. Funded  projects are helping transform underutilized areas into inviting, interactive spaces, while  also contributing to vandalism prevention and fostering a stronger sense of community  pride.   “This program continues to demonstrate how public art can shape a more dynamic,  inclusive, and engaging downtown,” said Amanda Dupuis, Community Housing &  Wellness Programmer for the City of Brandon. “We’re excited to see what new ideas  emerge this year and to build on the success we’ve already seen.”  The City of Brandon and the Brandon Downtown BIZ look forward to another successful  year of collaboration, creativity, and community-building through the Downtown Outdoor  Art Grant. Individuals with questions or project ideas are encouraged to reach out directly  to info@brandondowntown.biz.