Let’s Do Something — March 13, 2025

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TODAY

• 8:40 a.m. — Brandon is host to the CPKC Charity Hockey Tournament, with games taking place at the Keystone Centre, Flynn Arena, Enns Arena and J&G Homes Arena. This tournament is held annually in different locations across the CPKC network with employees past and present coming together in friendship. This marks the 42nd tournament, and this year the local charity we have partnered with is Westman Dreams for Kids Foundation Inc. Today: Enns Arena starts at 9 a.m.; Flynn Arena, 8:40 a.m.; Keystone Centre, 9 a.m. For a full schedule of games, visit cphockey.ca.

• 6:30 and 9 p.m. — The Brandon University Jazz Festival takes place at the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium featuring the Brandon University Big Band, under the direction of Diogo Peixoto performing alongside some of the finest jazz performers and educators in North America. Tickets are $30 each when ordered in groups of nine or fewer; $27.50 each when ordered in groups of 10 or more. Tickets available at the WMCA box office or by calling 204-728-9510.

• 7 p.m. — “Alone Across The Northwest Territories” takes place at the Riverbank Discovery Centre at 7 p.m. Join Canadian adventurer Calem Watson as he takes you on a solo canoe expedition across the Northwest Territories. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; presentation at 7 p.m. ; question and answer session to follow. Tickets are $25, plus taxes and fees.

• 7:30 p.m. — The Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre and the Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries presents “Murder For Two,” a high-energy musical whodunit featuring two actors who play a dozen different characters at 98 First St. South in Souris.

FRIDAY

• 8:40 a.m. — Brandon is host to the CPKC Charity Hockey Tournament, with games taking place at the Keystone Centre, Flynn Arena, Enns Arena and J&G Homes Arena. This tournament is held annually in different locations across the CPKC network with employees, past and present coming together in friendship. This marks the 42nd tournament, and this year the local charity we have partnered with is Westman Dreams for Kids Foundation Inc. Today: Enns Arena starts at 9 a.m.; Flynn Arena, 8:40 a.m.; Keystone Centre, noon; and J & G Homes Arena (Patricia Avenue and 34th Street), 10:10 a.m. For a full schedule of games, visit cphockey.ca.

• 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. — Brandon Farmers’ Market takes place every Friday at The Town Centre (800 Rosser Ave.), with fresh produce, baking, jams and jellies, pickling, crafts, beeswax candles and more. This farmers’ market runs year-round.

• 1:30 p.m. — Central Senior Dance returns for the season at Central Community Centre (529 Fourth St.) every Friday from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. with lunch to follow. Music by Prairie Fire. Cost is $15 per person. For more information, contact Pat Anderson at 204-901-1910 or Donald Livesley at 431-763-6470.

• 6:30 p.m. — Clear Lake Country is hosting a Fire and Frost Festival this weekend, with the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and cozy indoor fun. Today: Family dance party with DJ Mama Cutsworth at 6:30 p.m. in the Snow Pavilion and Fire Dancing at 8 p.m., followed by a dance party from 8 to 9:30 p.m. Patio party at 9:30 p.m. at the Lakehouse Patio. For more info, visit us on Instagram @clearlakecountry.

• 6:30 and 9 p.m. — Brandon University Jazz Festival takes place at the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium featuring the Brandon University Big Band, under the direction of Diogo Peixoto performing alongside some of the finest jazz performers and educators in North America. Tickets are $30 each when ordered in groups of nine or fewer; $27.50 each when ordered in groups of 10 or more. Tickets available at the WMCA box office or by calling 204-728-9510.

• 7 p.m. — The Brandon Wheat Kings meet the Moose Jaw Warriors at Westoba Place at 7 p.m. Tickets available at the Keystone Centre box office.

SATURDAY

• 8:40 a.m. — Brandon is host to the CPKC Charity Hockey Tournament, with games taking place at the Keystone Centre, Flynn Arena, Enns Arena and J&G Homes Arena. This tournament is held annually in different locations across the CPKC network with employees, past and present coming together in friendship. This marks the 42nd tournament, and this year the local charity we have partnered with is Westman Dreams for Kids Foundation Inc. Today: Enns Arena starts at 8:40 a.m.; Flynn Arena, 9:20 a.m.; Keystone Centre, 8 a.m. For a full schedule of games, visit cphockey.ca.

• 9 a.m. — Crocus Obedience and Kennel Club is hosting Premium List AAC Sanctioned Agility Trials in the ACE Arena at the Keystone Centre this weekend.

• 10 a.m. — Clear Lake Country’s Fire and Frost Festival continues with the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and cozy indoor fun throughout the community. Today features Aaron McKay art display as well as artist talk, blacksmithing, campfire stories, horse and wagon rides, a hula hoop party, fire dancing and much more. For more info, visit us on Instagram @clearlakecountry.

• 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. — PIE Day Event “Discovering Your Inner Performer: A Drag Workshop with Flora Hex” will take place at Knox United Church at 10 a.m. Explore the art of drag in this empowering workshop designed for all levels of experience. This workshop is for all ages, but is limited to 20 participants. To register, call Knox at 204-727-6975. Also taking place today at 1 p.m., Trinity and Knox United presents “The Art and History of Drag: From Origins to Evolution,” with drag artist Flora Hex, where we will explore the rich history, cultural significance and artistic impact of drag across the ages. After our journey, experience the magic of live with members of the House of Hex.

• 7:30 p.m. — Club 77 invites everyone to our St. Patrick’s Dance at the Shriner’s Hall (1110 McTavish Ave. East) from 7:30 to 11 p.m. Music by Nite Life. Lunch will be served. Admission is $15. Come on out and wear green if you wish and enjoy dancing and socializing with friendly people. For more information, call 204-729-9301.

SUNDAY

• 9 a.m. — Crocus Obedience and Kennel Club is hosting Premium List AAC Sanctioned Agility Trials in the ACE Arena at the Keystone Centre this weekend.

• 10 a.m. — Clear Lake Country’s Fire and Frost Festival continues with the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and cozy indoor fun throughout the community. Today features snow yoga, Yeti games and shinny. For more info, visit us on Instagram @clearlakecountry.

• 2 p.m. — Brandon’s St. Patrick’s Ceili and Party, hosted by McConnell Irish Dancers, takes place at the Ukrainian National Hall (1133 Stickney Ave.) from 2 to 5 p.m. This family-friendly event will feature the McConnell Irish Dancers, live music by Caitlin Baker and Friends, Ceili Dance, 50/50 raffle. Snack food and beverages will be available for purchase. Tickets are $10, adult; children under 14, free. Tickets available at Eventbrite.ca. For more information visit mcconnelldancers.com or call 204-793-8557.

• 3 p.m. — The best of Mecca Productions’ year-end concert takes to the stage at the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium at 3 p.m. for an afternoon of music of all styles and genres with performances from energy stage dance with voice numbers to award-winning musical theatre pieces to choral selections from their six choral programs to the smallest performers to the finale with a 100-plus-member multi-generation choir. Tickets available at the WMCA box office or by calling 204-728-9510.

MONDAY

• 10 a.m. — Come and join us for line dancing at Seniors For Seniors (311 Park Ave. East). Level 1: easy beginner, no experience, Mondays from 10 to 11:30 a.m. or 6 to 7 p.m.; Level 2: advanced, some experience is recommended, understanding of basic steps and terminology, Mondays or Wednesdays from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Drop-in classes or punch cards can be purchased. Members, $3.50; non-members, $4.50. For more info, call Marilyn at 204-679-8081.

• 1:15 p.m. — The East End Sunshine Card Club meets Mondays at the East End Community Centre (corner of Victoria Avenue East and Park Street, north entrance) until 4 p.m. Like to play cards? Then please join us. For details, contact Marlene at 204-727-3539.

• 6:30 p.m. — UCT Bingo takes place every Monday at 205 College Ave. Doors open at 4 p.m., with early-bird start at 6:30 p.m. and regular games at 7:10 p.m. Canteen available. Proceeds stay in Brandon for needs in the community.

• 7 p.m. — Women in Harmony rehearses on Mondays at Trinity United Church in Brandon (1515 Sixth St.). If you would like to check out a rehearsal to see if singing barbershop music with a dynamic and welcoming group of women is for you, join us Mondays at 7 p.m. For more info, call Naomi at 204-724-5152 or email womeninharmony1975@gmail.com.

• 7 p.m. — City of Brandon Parks and Recreation Services will be hosting a St. Patrick’s Day Trivia Night at T-Birds (2140 Currie Blvd.) from 7 to 9 p.m. Price per team is $40. Gather your friends, brush up on your St. Patrick’s Day knowledge.

TUESDAY

• 9:30 a.m. — The Brandon Career Symposium, presented by Assiniboine Community College, returns to the Keystone Centre today and tomorrow. Don’t miss this chance to learn about exciting careers, opportunities and more. This event is free to attend and open to the public. Times today: 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m.

WEDNESDAY

• 9:30 a.m. — The Brandon Career Symposium, presented by Assiniboine Community College, continues at the Keystone Centre. Don’t miss this chance to learn about exciting careers, opportunities and more. This event is free to attend and open to the public. Times today: 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• Noon — The Women with Cancer support group meets the third Wednesday of the month for lunch in the Blue Room at Pizza Place/Huggy’s at noon. For more information, contact Helena at 204-726-8315.

• 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. — The Brandon Embroiderers meet weekly to share their love of needlework, learn new skills and stitch together. All levels and abilities are welcome to attend. Call Dianne at 204-725-1445 or Darlene at 204-727-1624 for more information.

• 1:30 p.m. — Come and join us for line dancing at Seniors For Seniors (311 Park Ave. East). Level 2: advanced; some experience is recommended, understanding of basic steps and terminology. Mondays or Wednesdays from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Drop-in classes or punch cards can be purchased. Members, $3.50; non-members, $4.50. For more information, call Marilyn at 204-679-8081.

• 7 p.m. — The Brandon Wheat Kings meet the Saskatoon Blades at Westoba Place at 7 p.m. Tickets available at the Keystone Centre box office.

AT THE CLUBS

(Note: Information subject to change after print deadline.)

• Lady of the Lake (135-B 17th St. North) — Jan Ek and Lady K entertain on Friday at The Lady from 8 to 10 p.m. $5 at the door.

• The 40 (210 18th St. North, Brandon) — Prepare to rock out with the Flesh Monkeys Live on Friday at The 40. Doors open at 9 p.m. Cover $10. 18+ photo ID required. Come and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on Saturday with Brandon’s own Matt Cory and The Bad Decisions featuring Ash and The Arsonists and Pure Entry from Winnipeg. Doors open at 9 p.m.; bands at 10 p.m. $10 cover. 18+ event and photo ID is required.

• Sand Hills Casino (777 Sand Hill Drive, Carberry) — Wise Gise entertain at the Oasis Bar & Grill Friday and Saturday with some classic rock and country music. Live and always free.

• Georgie’s Lounge at the Keystone Motor Inn (1050 18th St.) — Every Friday and Saturday from 8 p.m. to midnight, there is karaoke in Georgie’s Lounge.

• Chez Angela Bakery and Café (Unit C, 29 10th St., Brandon) — Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Celtic tunes and good company this Free Music Friday with Bruce Dunlop 6:30 p.m.

• North Hill Inn (1129 Braecrest Dr.) — Join us for the hottest Latin Night in Brandon with Reggaeton, Bachata, Salsa, Merengue and more supplied by DJs David Gomez and Davier Gomez. Doors open at 10 p.m. Cover $10.

• Great Western Roadhouse (1125 18th St. at Canad Inns) — On Friday night, Labatt’s is bringing all the swag while Vance will bring out the whole light show for the weekend. Tapper Entertainment presents Bankrol Hayden’s Middle of Somewhere concert with YSNFab and Northsidebaby from 6 to 9 p.m. This is an all-ages show. Tickets online at showpass.com. Then get ready in the evening to wear all the green as St. Paddy’s hits hard!

• Houstons Country Roadhouse (3130 Victoria Ave.) — Starting this Saturday we are test running the first iteration of the Giant Pong Shootout! Every weekend, we will give out a limited number of tickets to be a contestant in the big game. Also, on Saturday we have Jason Kirkness taking to the stage with his country favourites. $5 entry. Doors open at 9 p.m.; show at 10:30 p.m.

• Black Wheat Brewing (402 10th St.) — Join us every Saturday for “Music of the Decades!” Come for the tunes; stay for the fun.

• The Dock on Princess (1133 Princess Ave.) — Every Thursday night is Student Night. Show us your student ID for food and drink specials. On Saturday, join in the fun for a St. Paddy’s Downtown Scavenger Hunt from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Then come back down to join us as Full Flannel Jacket takes the stage at 8 p.m. and enjoy some green beer, Irish nachos, St. Paddy’s Melt or some Irish Stew. Cover $5.

MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES

• Daly House Museum (122 18th St., Brandon) — Built in 1882, original home of Brandon’s first mayor, Thomas Mayne Daly. Artifacts include a collection of late 19th-century and early 20th-century furnishings, First World War memorabilia. Exhibit “Who’s In That Photo? Discovering Brandon’s Polish Roots in Photography,” on loan from Ottawa genealogist Frank Cedar, features 58 reproduced photos on immigration to Canada and the Prairies in the late 1800s. On display until April 30. Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. (September to June). Admission: $7 adults; $6 seniors and youth (6-18); family (up to two adults and three children), $13; children under five, free. For more info, visit dalyhousemuseum.ca or call 204-727-1722.

• Art Gallery of Southwestern Manitoba (Unit 2, 710 Rosser Ave., Brandon) — Manitoba’s oldest centre for visual art and one of Canada’s first since 1907. The AGSM boasts two exhibition spaces, an art school and gift shop that supports more than 60 local Manitoba artists. Main Gallery exhibitions: “Barrier, Breach, Scaffold,” a collection of work pulled out of the vault of Manitoba Art Council’s collection housed in Brandon at the AGSM; “The WOW and the WHY,” a partnership with Manitoba Aurora and Astronomy that blends the miraculous beauty of the northern lights with scientific and traditional knowledge. Both on display until March 22. Kayes Community Gallery: “This Is Us: Indigenous Identity Beyond Blood,” on display now until May 3 and co-ordinated by the Indigenous Peoples Centre, Brandon University and BU CARES. Hours: Tuesday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday, noon to 5 p.m.; closed Sunday and Monday. Entry to the gallery inside The Town Centre parkade in the northeast corner. Free admission. For more information, visit agsm.ca.

• 26th Field Regiment RCA/XII Manitoba Dragoons Museum (within the Brandon Armoury, 1116 Victoria Ave. Please use 11th Street door) — Open Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and closed for lunch. Also open by appointment by calling 204-717-4579. Visit our websites: 26fdregmuseum.ca or 12mbdragoons.com.

• Brandon General Museum and Archives (19 Ninth St., Unit 101) — Attractions include the Brandon History Hall, Manitoba Telephone History, the BJ Hales Natural History Collection and rotating exhibits celebrating Brandon’s roots. Guided visits are Tuesday to Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. Admission by donation. Booking in advance is strongly recommended. Phone 204-717-1514 or email bgmainfo@wcgwave.ca.

• Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum (CATPM) (Brandon Municipal Airport, Highway 10, 1.6 kilometres north of Brandon) — Canada’s only air museum solely dedicated to the preservation of those who trained and fought for the British Commonwealth during the Second World War. The museum has a number of British Commonwealth Air Training Plan aircraft, various aircraft engines and parts, all courtesy of the Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada. The CATPM at the Brandon Municipal Airport has closed for the season, but will reopen in the spring of 2025 from 1-4 p.m. (weather permitting). For more information, call the museum at 204-727-2444 or visit us on Facebook.

• Royal Canadian Artillery Museum (Building N-118 Patricia Rd., CFB Shilo) — We opened our new temporary exhibit, marking the 110th anniversary of the start of the First World War. The main features of the exhibit include a trench wall, First World War artillery and two machine-gun pits. Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday. Admission: $10 for adults; $5 for seniors and students; children under 6, free. Phone 204-765-3000 (ext. 3570) or email RCAMuseum@forces.gc.ca.

• Killarney’s Heritage Home for the Arts (44 Water Ave., Killarney) — Killarney Turtle Mountain Arts Council’s gallery is in the Heritage Home for the Arts. Gallery hours are Tuesday to Saturday, 1 to 4 p.m.; closed all statutory holidays. Special tours can be arranged by calling 204-554-0023. You can also visit Killarney-Turtle Mountain Arts Council on Facebook, @killarneyarts on Instagram or our website at killarneyarts.com.

• ArtsForward (293 Mountain Ave., Neepawa) — ArtsForward is the central arts venue in Neepawa in visual, literary, performing and material arts. Hours: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Thursday; 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday; closed on weekends.

• Virden Pioneer Home Museum (390 King St. West, Virden) — Museum house was built in 1888 by James F. Frame, a hardware and lumber merchant and prominent citizen in the community. The main house depicts how a family in the Victorian era would have lived. There are also two additional annexes and a coach house available for viewing. Currently closed for the season. Tours by appointment only by emailing virdenpioneermuseum@wcgwave.ca or calling 204-748-1659.

UPCOMING EVENTS

• March 20 — Assiniboine Community College’s Manitoba Institute of Culinary Arts is hosting its Foundation Legacy Gala Dinner at the North Hill Campus featuring gourmet dining by Culinary Arts, Baking Foundation and Hospitality students. Guests are treated to an exclusive multi-course menu with wine pairings at each course. Complimentary in-town car service is provided by our Public Safety program students. For more information, visit Assiniboine.net/foundation.

• March 20-22 — Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School presents “Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief!” at the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium (205 20th St.) nightly at 7 p.m. as well as a matinée show on March 22 at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at the WMCA box office or by calling 204-728-9510.

• March 21 — The Brandon Wheat Kings meet the Regina Pats at Westoba Place at 6 p.m. Tickets available at the Keystone Centre box office.

• March 21-23 — The 2025 Canadian Indoor ASA Championships takes place at the Keystone Centre. This 3D archery championship is open to all ages, abilities and equipment types. Registration closes on March 12. To register visit buff.ly/3VQns5x of visit Archery Manitoba on Facebook,

• March 22 — Camino de Santiago presentation will take place at the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum building at McGill Field, Brandon Airport (300 Commonwealth Way) from 1:30 to 3 p.m. The Camino de Santiago, also known as the Way of St. James, is and extensive network of ancient pilgrim routes that converge in Santiago de Compostela in northwest Spain. Pilgrims have been walking these routes since the Middle Ages. This presentation covers two of the most popular routes, Camino Frances and Camino Portuguese. If you have ever had the urge to compete one of these routes, this presentation will provide some basic information on the different means of accomplishing your goal. Free admission (donation to museum graciously accepted). Snack, coffee and tea provided.

• March 22 — PrairieCon Spring Games Day will take place at Central Community Centre (529 Fourth St.) from noon to 10 p.m. This is a fun, free event where anyone can come by and drop in to play some tabletop games. They are very casual open-gaming events with no scheduling or slots. If you see an open spot at a table, ask if you can join or ask someone at the canteen and we will help you.

• March 22 — The Brandon General Museum and Archives is very excited to announce that wildlife photographer Rustam Dow is our next Show & Tell speaker with his presentation, “A Glimpse into Wild Westman.” This presentation will feature some of Dow’s work as well as highlight bet practices and equipment for capturing wildlife and even pointing out some of Dow’s favourite locations. This talk will be in the BJ Hales Natural History Gallery at 2 p.m. An informal Q&A will follow presentation. These talks are by donation, but space is limited so best to reserve your spot by emailing bgmainfo@wcgwave.ca. or by calling 204-717-1514.

• March 22 — The Brandon University Orchestra and the Brandon University Chorale Concert takes place at St. Matthew’s Anglican Cathedral (403 13th St.) at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults; youth aged 13-18 $5 and under 12 no charge. No charge for BU and Conservatory of Music students.

• March 23 — The Brandon Festival of the Arts Encore Concert will take place at the Lorne Watson Recital Hall at 7 p.m.

• March 23 — Kaleidoscope Concerts Series Neepawa presents the Winnipeg bluegrass supergroup Stanley County Cut-Ups at ArtsForward at 7 p.m. From hard-driving banjo solos to four-part harmony singing, blues-infused mandolin breaks and hair-raising fiddle tunes, this quartet covers all the bluegrass bases. Adult tickets, $20 in advance; $25 at the door; K-12 students, $5 at the door only.

• March 29 — Brandon University Concert Choir with the Brandon University Chorale will perform at Knox United Church (451 18th St.) at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults; youth aged 13-18 $5 and under 12 no charge. No charge for BU and Conservatory of Music students.

• March 30 — Frozen In Time takes place at the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium (205 20th St.) with show times at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Join your two favourite princesses for a magical afternoon filled with story telling and sing-a-longs. You are encouraged to come dressed as your favourite prince, princess, character or villain. Tickets are available at the WMCA box office or by calling 204-728-9510.

• March 31 — Rockland Entertainment presents Carroll Baker, “Canada’s First Lady of Country Music,” and Bakerstreet as they launch their final cross-Canada tour with a performance at the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium (205 20th St.) at 7 p.m. Tickets are available at the WMCA box office or by calling 204-728-9510.

• March 31-April 5 — The Royal Manitoba Winter Fair, one of Western Canada’s largest agricultural events and the largest annual event to be held in Brandon, takes place at the Keystone Centre over six days and features world-class show jumping, heavy horse competitions; livestock sales and displays, quality hands-on agricultural education programs as well as exceptional live entertainment. More than 300 commercial and agricultural exhibits. This year marks a significant milestone as we celebrate 55 years since receiving Royal Designation from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 1970. For more information visit the Provincial Exhibition website.

• April 1 — Direct from the United Kingdom, Paquette Productions presents Walk Right Back 2025 — The Everly Brothers Story at the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium (205 20th St.) at 7 p.m. Tickets are available at the WMCA box office or by calling 204-728-9510.

• April 3-5 — The Rotary Club Spring Book Sale will be held once again in the Imperial Ballroom at the Victoria Inn (3550 Victoria Ave.) with more than 75,000 books. Times: April 3 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; April 4 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; April 5 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free book for every child. Free admission.

• April 27 — The Arts West Council and Reston Art Club invite regional amateur and emerging artists to participate in the 46th Annual Westman Juried Art Show taking place at the RES Centre in Reston. Categories include painting, drawing, mixed media, scratch art, 2D fibre art and silkscreen. Entries from youth (11-19 years of age) and adult artists are welcome. All entries will receive juror critiques and will be exhibited at the public reception. Jurors will select 20 works for the Arts West Travelling Gallery, which will tour the region over the next year. Entry deadline is April 16. Compete information and entry forms are available at www.artswestcouncil.ca.

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