Brandon audiences are in for an unforgettable night of magic this fall as world-renowned illusionist Darcy Oake brings his electrifying live show to the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium on Friday, October 23, 2026. The performance, scheduled for 7:30 p.m., promises an evening of jaw-dropping illusions, high-energy entertainment, and theatrical spectacle. Known for his innovative style and modern approach to magic, Oake has built an international reputation as one of Canada’s most exciting illusionists, captivating audiences across North America and beyond. Oake first rose to global fame following his breakout appearances on Britain's Got Talent, where his visually stunning acts earned him a spot in the finals and millions of online views. Since then, he has toured extensively, headlined major venues, and earned acclaim for pushing the boundaries of traditional magic with cutting-edge illusions and storytelling. His upcoming Brandon show is part of a broader tour that continues to showcase his signature blend of danger, mystery, and precision. Audiences can expect a fast-paced performance filled with impossible escapes, sleight-of-hand mastery, and large-scale illusions that leave spectators questioning reality. Tickets for the show are expected to be in high demand, as fans of live magic and theatrical performance won’t want to miss the chance to see one of Canada’s top illusionists perform live in Brandon. With a mix of suspense, spectacle, and world-class showmanship, Darcy Oake’s October 23 performance is shaping up to be one of the must-see events of the season in Westman.

Dauphin’s Countryfest is proud to officially unveil the full lineup for our 2026 festival, set to take place June 25-28th at the iconic Selo Ukraina on the edge of Riding Mountain National Park. With a mix of international headliners, celebrated Canadian talent, and rising local artists, this year’s festival promises an unforgettable experience for music fans across the country. Headlining the 2026 festival are multi-platinum country stars Jelly Roll, Tyler Hubbard, and Nate Smith, each bringing their high-energy performances to the Play Now Main Stage. The festival will kick off on Thursday, June 25th with a Rockin’ Thursday Kickoff Party, featuring Canadian standout female rocker JJ Wilde. Wilde, a Kitchener, Ontario born artist, has seen significant national success and will set the tone for an electrifying weekend ahead alongside Manitoba locals Leddwyn and The Haileys. Additional highlights on the hilltop stages include acclaimed Canadian artists Charlie Major and Aaron Pritchett, along with a drink-raising, head-banging performance from Eddy and the Dirty Boys; a rising Canadian rock band compiled of members from both The Glorious Sons and Boston Levi. Toque will be returning to the hilltop stage to bring their high-energy classic rock performance we all know and love. The remainder of the weekend features home-grown talent, and out of province rising stars. country music scene we have right here in Manitoba. “Each year our goal is to build a lineup that truly captures the spirit of Countryfest, bringing together world-class talent, Canadian artists, and the rising stars in our own backyard,” said Colette Hykawy, Programming Committee Lead, “We’re excited to welcome fans back to the hill for four days of great music and fun activities.” Ticket Information Dauphin’s Countryfest has now entered Tier 3 pricing with weekend passes available at $369 plus fees and taxes. Tickets and Camping can be purchased online at Countryfest.ca or by calling 1-800-361-7300. About Dauphin’s Countryfest Founded in 1990, Dauphin’s Countryfest is Canada’s Longest Running Country Music Festival, bringing thousands of fans together every July Long Weekend for a celebration of music, community, and good times. Set against the backdrop of Manitoba’s Parkland region, Countryfest continues to be a cornerstone of Canadian country music culture. For more information visit Countryfest.ca or follow @dauphinscountryfest on social media.  

The Hilltop Stage at the 2026 edition of Rockin’ the Fields of Minnedosa 2026 is set to deliver a powerful mix of classic rock nostalgia and high-energy live performances, complementing the festival’s mainstage lineup with a strong supporting cast of fan-favourite acts. Running July 31 through August 2 in Minnedosa, the annual festival continues its tradition of showcasing both legendary touring bands and iconic Canadian rock talent. While the mainstage features headliners such as Collective Soul, Cheap Trick, and Smash Mouth, the Hilltop Stage offers festivalgoers an equally entertaining experience with a lineup rooted in classic hits and prairie rock heritage. Friday July 31 2026 LAST KISS - is your Winnipeg-based Ultimate KISS Tribute Band. The 12/21 - high-energy pop-punk band of brothers, bringing a special tribute to Simple Plan. Matt Cory - hard-rock and alternative Brandon-based musician whose music fuses heavy riffs, soaring melodies, and raw conviction. Saturday August 1 2026 GenX - The ultimate 90s rock tribute! Chaboyer high energy covers alongside a full band on the hilltop stage! Car287- Winnipeg-based rock band formed in 2014, originally playing covers before releasing original music. Sunday August 2 2026 Rock Candy - Saskatchewan's HOTTEST Rock/Pop Party Band Just Dynamite - Blues Rock Band from Brandon MB Damn Straight - Rock n roll cover band based out of Winnipeg, Manitoba The Hilltop Stage has become a favourite destination for festivalgoers looking to discover—or rediscover—classic Canadian acts in a more intimate setting. As anticipation builds for another summer weekend of rock in Minnedosa, the Hilltop Stage once again stands as a key part of the festival’s identity—celebrating the enduring legacy of classic rock while keeping the energy going from afternoon through late night. Tier 1 ticket pricing ends FRIDAY!! Grab your tickets before they go up in price at rockinthefields.ca

The Keystone Centre is proud to announce a significant new  partnership with Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries (MBLL), who has secured naming  rights to the Keystone Centre’s Viewing Lounge and Assembly Hall, as well as  additional branding opportunities, as part of a multi-year Community Partner  sponsorship agreement.  The agreement represents a three-year investment from MBLL in support of the  Keystone Centre’s role as a hub for community events, entertainment, agriculture,  and sport across Westman and beyond.  In addition to facility branding, the partnership directly supports community  programming. Through the Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries Fan Zone, local teams and  organizations that contribute to the community are eligible to receive 12 tickets to  cheer on the Wheat Kings at ice level. MBLL will also sponsor a Wheat Kings  bobblehead night each season, and participate in Wheat Kings in-game activities,  giveaways, and ceremonial moments.    “We are thrilled to welcome Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries as a partner at this level,” said Connie Lawrence, CEO & general manager of the Keystone Centre. “This  partnership strengthens our ability to provide high-quality events and experiences  for our community, while enhancing the guest experience through upgraded spaces  and increased collaboration. MBLL’s commitment to community aligns perfectly  with the work we do here every day.”  MBLL’s investment helps offset the costs of hosting community sporting events,  agricultural exhibitions, conferences, fairs, and entertainment programming— ensuring the Keystone Centre continues to serve as a vital economic and cultural  anchor for Westman.  “We are proud to be able to provide this support that will enhance the many  outstanding programs and events hosted at the Keystone Centre,” said Gerry Sul,  President & CEO, Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries. “Whether it is taking in a Wheat Kings hockey game, enjoying the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair, or participating in one of the many other events held throughout the year, it is without a doubt the Keystone  Centre plays an important role in bringing Manitobans together and enriching the  community.”  The agreement, which came into effect September 1, 2025, includes opportunities  to expand or renew the partnership beyond 2028, with MBLL holding the right of first  refusal for continued involvement. 

The Keystone Centre Foundation is pleased to announce the  Sunrise Future Leaders Conference presented by Sunrise Credit Union, featuring  keynote speaker Israel Idonije, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, and former NFL  defensive end. The event will take place May 14, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. in the Westman  Communications Group Amphitheatre at the Keystone Centre. Admission is free.  “Sunrise Credit Union is proud to help guide and support the development of future leaders by bringing them together to learn from someone who truly understands what it means to be community-minded, like Israel Idonije,” says Sunrise Credit Union President and CEO Tim Klassen. “The Sunrise Future Leaders Conference provides an excellent opportunity for youth across Western Manitoba to connect, become engaged, and develop valuable skills and knowledge that will empower them to make a positive impact in their communities.”  The Sunrise Future Leaders Conference has been developed to engage students  and young adults from across the region, offering insight into leadership  development, entrepreneurship, and the importance of community involvement.  The Foundation aims to inspire emerging leaders by providing access to impactful voices with strong local connections.  “We are pleased that Israel was so receptive to this engagement,” said Connie  Lawrence, CEO and General Manager of the Keystone Centre. “This is a tremendous  opportunity for young people in Brandon and across Westman—our community’s  next generation of leaders—to hear from a hometown hero and see firsthand that  achieving your dreams is possible with hard work and a positive attitude. We are  also incredibly grateful to the sponsors whose support helped make this event  possible for our community.” Idonije, who began his football career at Vincent Massey high school as a senior,  would go on to become the first player of the modern era to play in the NFL, coming  from the University of Manitoba. Following an 11-year professional football career,  which included a Super Bowl appearance, Idonije has become widely recognized  for his initiatives in business innovation, social enterprise, and charitable work. His  address will draw from personal and professional experiences that underscore  resilience, vision, and service.  The Sunrise Future Leaders Conference precedes the Foundation’s inaugural  benefit dinner, Legacy & Lights, scheduled for the evening of May 14. The benefit  dinner will also feature Idonije along with comedian Dave Hemstad, with proceeds  supporting the Keystone Centre Foundation’s ongoing efforts to advance the long term sustainability of the Keystone Centre.  Event Details  Name: Sunrise Future Leaders Conference presented by Sunrise Credit  Union  Keynote Speaker: Israel Idonije  Date & Time: May 14, 2026 — 9:30 a.m.  Venue: Westman Communications Group Amphitheatre, Keystone Centre • Admission: Free of charge  Intended Audience: Students, youth, educators, and community  organizations