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 

Following the opening night of competition for the PBR (Professional  Bull Riders) Canada Cup Series event in Brandon, Manitoba, on Friday, May 1, the  organization today announced the inaugural Pendleton Whisky Cabaret, a can’t miss after  hours celebration that will be headlined by surging country music artist Kieran Gardner at  the Manitoba Room at the Keystone Centre.   The PBR Pendleton Whisky Cabaret will get underway immediately following the bull riding  event inside the adjacent Assiniboine Credit Union Place on Friday, May 1 at approximately  9:30 p.m. CDT.   Gardner is a 19-year-old folk-country singer hailing from Clavet, Saskatchewan. He began  learning guitar and singing at the age 12 and quickly realized his passion for writing and  performing his original music. Fast-forward to present and Gardner is now touring across  Canada, and following his debut single “Last December,” is making noise with new releases  including “Runaway Diesel.”  Gardner’s music is inspired by real-life experiences as he attempts to create relatable  songs that invoke emotions in order to connect with his listeners.   Access to the PBR Pendleton Whisky Cabaret will be provided complimentary to all existing  and future two-day ticket holders to the PBR Mazergroup Chute Out. Those fans who  purchase tickets for both nights of PBR competition will also receive a 15% discount.  Single-day ticket buyers will be able to purchase the PBR Pendleton Whisky Cabaret add on for $10, while general admission tickets are available for $20.   The bull riding action for PBR Canada Cup Series’ Mazergroup Chute Out, begins at 7:00  p.m. CST on both Friday, May 1 and Saturday, May 2.  Tickets for both the PBR Mazergroup Chute Out and Pendleton Whisky Cabaret can be  purchased at the Keystone Centre Box Office and online at Ticketmaster.ca.  

Residents looking for their first ice cream treat of the season have reason to celebrate, as Tastee's Ice Cream & Grill opened its doors today for the 2026 season. Located on First Street, the popular eatery has become a spring tradition for many Brandon families who mark the change in seasons with a visit for soft serve, burgers, fries and other classic diner fare. The restaurant operates seasonally each year, typically welcoming customers from early spring through the fall before closing for the winter months. Tastee’s has built a reputation as a nostalgic stop for both food and frozen treats. In addition to a wide variety of ice cream options, the menu features hot food favourites such as cheeseburgers, hot dogs, poutine and appetizers. For many Brandon residents, the opening of Tastee’s is more than just the start of another business season — it’s a sign that warmer weather is on the way. The small diner often draws steady lines of customers eager for their first cone, milkshake or sundae of the year. With spring slowly arriving in Westman, locals now have another reason to get out and enjoy the season — a stop at one of Brandon’s classic ice cream spots. Whether it’s a quick lunch, an after-school treat, or a family outing, Tastee’s return means the taste of summer is officially back on First Street.