Dauphin’s Countryfest 2026 is officially underway after an unforgettable Thursday Kick-Off Party that welcomed thousands of festival-goers through the gates and onto the iconic Dauphin Co-op Hilltop Stage. With campers arriving throughout the day, Countryfest staff and volunteers ensured guests were welcomed quickly and efficiently, allowing everyone plenty of time to settle into the campground before enjoying an incredible evening of live music. The night kicked off with high-energy performances from Leddwyn and The Hailey’s, whose rock-inspired sets had the crowd on their feet and ready for an unforgettable weekend. Headliner JJ Wilde then took the stage, delivering the powerhouse performance and electric energy that have made her one of Canada’s most exciting new live acts. “What a great start to the 2026 festival!” said Countryfest President Duane McMaster. “We opened the gates to a long line of excited folks and got them through quickly and they were able to set up and come up and enjoy the show. The crowd was incredible for the Rockin’ Thursday kick off party. I feel like that electric atmosphere and excitement up top are going to set the tone for the weekend.” The enthusiastic crowd marked the perfect beginning to four days of world-class entertainment, creating momentum that is sure to carry throughout the weekend. Festival organizers remind music fans that there’s still plenty of time to join the celebration. Weekend passes are still available and can be purchased online at http://countryfest.ca. With an incredible lineup still to come, Dauphin’s Countryfest 2026 is just getting started.

Fans of one of television's most beloved game shows will soon have the chance to hear those famous words, "Come on down!" as The Price Is Right Live makes its return to Brandon. The interactive stage production will take over the historic Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium (WMCA) for two performances on September 21 and 22, with both shows getting underway at 8 p.m. Audience members will have the opportunity to be selected to participate on stage and play iconic games made famous by the long-running TV series, including fan favourites such as Plinko, Cliffhangers, the Big Wheel and the Showcase. Contestants could walk away with prizes ranging from cash and appliances to dream vacations and even the possibility of winning a new vehicle. The touring production has awarded millions of dollars in cash and prizes to audience members across North America over the years, bringing all the excitement and energy of the television show to live audiences. The return of The Price Is Right Live adds another major event to the lineup at the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium, one of Westman's premier performing arts venues. Located on the Brandon University campus, the WMCA has served as a cultural hub for the region for decades, hosting concerts, theatrical productions, comedians and touring attractions from across Canada and beyond. Tickets and additional event information are available through the WMCA box office and online starting June 26. Fans are encouraged to secure their seats early as the show has historically attracted large crowds and near sellout audiences wherever it travels. For those hoping to hear their name called, this September may be their chance to finally "come on down."

Summer is set to arrive in style as The Dock on Princess and Section 6 Brewing team up to host the 2026 Kickin' Off Summer Block Party on Saturday, June 20th from 1pm to 11pm. The event will bring together live entertainment, food, drinks, and community spirit for an evening of celebration in downtown Brandon. The block party is expected to attract visitors from across Westman, highlighting the growing partnership between two of Brandon's popular local businesses. Attendees can look forward to an outdoor festival atmosphere designed to showcase local talent while celebrating the arrival of warmer weather. The 2026 Kickin' Off Summer Block Party promises to be one of Brandon's signature early-summer celebrations, bringing together great music, local brews, and community connections.  

The City of Brandon invites everyone to a spectacular Canada Day celebration at the Riverbank Discovery Centre on Wed, July 1, 2026. Hosted by the City of Brandon's Parks & Recreation Services, this free community event will be filled with live music and dance, food trucks and market vendors, and family-friendly activitiFestivities begin at 11 a.m., with official opening ceremonies at 1 p.m. The Fusion Credit Union Stage will feature live music and dance performances throughout the event, and food trucks will be open all day. A dedicated kids zone will run from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. featuring bouncy castles, lawn games, face painting, scavenger hunt, arts & crafts and more. Market vendors will be on site from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. And the celebration will conclude with fireworks at dusk. es. “Our Parks & Recreation Team is proud to once again host Canada Day celebrations for the community,” said Heather Reimer, Acting Director of Parks & Recreation Services. “We invite everyone to come together, show their Canadian pride, and enjoy a day of fun, connection, and festivities at the Riverbank Discovery Centre!” Parking attendants will be on site to direct traffic at the Riverbank Discovery Centre. Kirkaldy Ave will be closed from 1st St to 18th St to all incoming traffic from approximately 10:45 p.m. – 12:30 a.m to allow for safe egress following the fireworks

The City of Brandon is pleased to welcome residents back to Kinsmen Pool (411 Park St.)  for the 2026 summer season. The pool will open this Friday, June 12 and will be open until Aug. 30. Kinsmen Pool offers a great way to stay active, cool down, and enjoy the summer months with family and friends. Things to know before you go: Children under 7 must be accompanied by a caregiver aged 13 or older The pool is closed daily from 4 to 5 p.m. for maintenance Admission is per swim time slot (not daily admission) Affordable rates are available, including family passes and punch cards Public swim times vary by day and month, with afternoon and evening options available throughout the season. The full schedule is available at brandon.ca/parks-recreation/parks-and-greenspaces/spray-parks-and-paddle-pools. For more information, residents can contact the Kinsmen Pool starting this Friday at 204-730-6896 or email sportsplex@brandon.ca.