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.  

 Brandon Tourism is pleased to announce that UpHouse has been selected  to lead the development of a new tourism strategic plan and place brand for the city of Brandon.  Following a competitive procurement process that attracted several highly-qualified firms,  Brandon Tourism has selected UpHouse, a marketing, PR and media agency headquartered in  Winnipeg, MB. Specializing in evoking the emotions that bring people to a place, you can see  their creative storytelling through their work as Travel Manitoba's agency of record, leading the  refreshed brand and positioning, Canada's Heart is Calling.  They've helped craft meaningful brands for places as close to Brandon as Clear Lake Country,  and worked with destinations as far-reaching as Tourism Ireland through partnerships with  influencers.  This project represents a significant step forward in shaping the future of tourism in Brandon.  The tourism strategic plan will provide a clear roadmap to guide growth, investment, and visitor  experience development, while the place brand will define and articulate Brandon’s identity in a  way that resonates with residents and visitors alike.  “We are excited to partner with UpHouse on this important initiative,” said Lanny Stewart,  director of marketing and communications with Brandon Tourism. “Their understanding of  Brandon’s opportunities and their collaborative approach will help us build a strong, authentic,  and competitive destination brand.”  Brandon Tourism extends its sincere appreciation to all firms who participated in the procurement process. The submissions demonstrated a high standard of professionalism, insight,  and innovation, and we recognize the significant time and effort invested by each proponent. We  thank all participants for their interest in contributing to Brandon’s tourism future.  Work on the project will begin in the coming weeks and will incorporate stakeholder  engagement throughout the process. For updates on the Brandon Tourism strategic plan and  place brand project, make sure to follow Brandon Tourism on social media.

One of Westman’s most anticipated family events is set to return this spring, as Westman Dreams for Kids prepares to host its annual Children’s Country Fair on Sunday, May 24, 2026. The beloved community celebration, which coincides with the spirit of the season following the arrival of Spring, promises a full day of free entertainment for families across the region. Organizers say the event continues to grow each year, offering children and parents alike a chance to come together, enjoy the outdoors, and create lasting memories. The fair will feature a wide range of activities designed to appeal to all ages. Children can look forward to bouncy castles and inflatables, face decorating, interactive crafts and games, and a popular petting zoo. Returning favourites such as horse and wagon rides will also give families a taste of country charm right in the heart of Brandon. In addition to the free activities, a cash-only canteen will be available on-site, offering a variety of snacks and treats throughout the day. The Children’s Country Fair is a signature event for Westman Dreams for Kids, a local organization dedicated to supporting children and families in need across southwestern Manitoba. Proceeds and community support generated through events like this help fund meaningful programs and initiatives throughout the year. Local businesses and community members are also encouraged to get involved. Sponsorship opportunities remain available, giving supporters a chance to contribute directly to the success of the event while helping strengthen community connections. With no admission cost and something for everyone to enjoy, organizers are inviting families from Brandon and surrounding communities to mark their calendars and attend. The Westman Dreams for Kids Children’s Country Fair takes place Sunday, May 24, offering a full day dedicated to fun, laughter, and community spirit.