For those travelers looking forward to getting behind the wheel, hitting the open road and exploring what the region has to offer, we highly recommend a day trip (estimated round trip driving time 2 hrs 30 minutes) to these three neighboring communities: Glenboro, Holland, & Treherne. This fun-filled day trip offers the flexibility to see a number of roadside attractions, enjoy some tasty food, visit a few unique museums & more. The highlight of the trip would have to be the Glass Bottle Houses in Treherne. The glass bottle structures (house, church, wishing well) were created by Bob and Dora Cain, and Fred Harp. The church was built in 1983, using approximately 5000 bottles. Additional information on the attraction can be found here.

Let’s just go for a drive.  The weather’s nice, the fields are turning colours and we’re supposed to stay away from groups. Let’s just go for a drive. I’ll offer two options, for this article. Both are within an hour away. If you choose left (south) you’ll visit Souris. If you choose right (north) you’ll head to Hamiota. Souris is about 30 minutes from Brandon, and Hamiota is an hour. To start this adventure head west on the Trans Canada Highway #1. It won’t be long before you reach the turn at highway #250. This road will lead you right into the town of Souris. If you take a pass on Souris, and go 10 minutes further, you’ll see highway #21 to the north. It will take you on a few twists and turns, and through rolling hills, but soon enough, you’ll reach the beautiful town of Hamiota. In Souris you’ll find many outdoor attractions (Victoria Park, The Plum, the Rock Shop agate pit) but the must-see attraction is Canada’s longest swinging bridge (pictured above). This suspension bridge was originally built in 1904 and was rebuilt after the flood of 2011. It takes less than 10 minutes to walk across the bridge and is especially beautiful at sunset. While in Souris, expect to see wild peacocks roaming the town. If you are lucky enough to see them strutting around with their feathers on display, have your camera ready. Just be careful to keep your distance, and keep a watchful eye on traffic. If you hear the peacock whoop, and you are a fan of the Disney movie UP you’ll instantly think of Kevin. The peacock whoop, or screeching call sounds just like the bird from the movie. Your kids will love it! To see an online visitor’s guide and learn more about the attractions and businesses in Souris visit www.sourismanitoba.com. The town of Hamiota has a gorgeous mural that will catch your eye the minute you turn onto Maple Street. The heritage building and former bank, is officially known as the Heritage Arts Centre. Further along Maple Street you’ll see a small but beautiful public garden. A second bigger park, Millennium Park is along highway #21. If you want to do more than just stretch your legs, bring your golf clubs and play 9 holes at the Hamiota Golf Course. You’ll be pleased to see all this beautiful town has to offer. While I’ve yet to visit during bakery hours, I’m told that Country Crocus Bakeshop has THE best donuts in the region. I’m willing to go for a few more road trips and do some taste testing to prove this theory. More details and event information can be found at www.hamiota.com or on their Instagram page @hamiota_municipality If you do plan to take a drive, don’t forget to take your mask and your hand sanitizer. Spread only kindness.

Brandon based Look Music Services is expanding the list of services they provide to include a mobile drive in theatre experience. The company recently purchased a large (16x24) inflatable movie screen, complete with PA and a small FM transmitter, for those municipalities, organizations, or community groups looking to put on a unique outdoor experience. In conversation earlier today with bdnmb.ca, they said they already have a number of bookings including upcoming shows in Birtle and Carberry. The screen size is ideal for between 50-75 cars and can be setup in a matter of hours. The movie choice will vary based on a number of factors, as they do have to go through the studios for public viewing. With physical distancing measures likely in place for the foreseeable future, this option allows the opportunity to enjoy a movie experience without having to leave the safety of your vehicle. To inquire about how to bring this unique experience to your community, or event, please visit their Facebook page.

Westman Multicultural Festival Society Chair James McCrae today sent the following to festival planners and volunteers: To Westman Multicultural Festival Participants:  It is with profound regret that your executive committee announces that the 2021 Westman Multicultural Festival must be cancelled. All volunteers, sponsors and festival-goers will of course be disappointed. However, good planning requires sufficient lead time in order to produce the excellent festivals we have enjoyed over the years. Should COVID 19 pandemic news change in the near future, we might still have time to organize a festival, but current and medium term health risk conditions indicate otherwise. We trust your commitment to a vibrant multicultural Westman will remain strong as we look forward to happy and healthy future festivals. (submitted)

Citing the uncertainty of the Covid-19 pandemic, Dakota Nation Winterfest 2021 has been cancelled. The announcement was made on their Facebook page earlier in the week. The announcement also stated "Notifications have been sent to the City of Brandon, the Keystone Centre and the Canad Inns." Billed as the largest Indigenous sport and cultural event of its kind all under one roof, the event has a long standing tradition in Western Manitoba. The festival encompasses activities and events for all age groups including a square dance competition, talent show, wacipi, basketball, volleyball, hockey, moccasin games and more.