Embrace the Chill & Cheer

December brings a dusting of snow, frosty mornings and early sunsets and with them a special kind of magic across Southwest Manitoba. From snow-covered trails to cozy indoor fun, this month offers something for everyone. Here are five top activities to enjoy this December.

1. Glide, Snowshoe or Hike

*Riverbank Discovery Center – Photo Credit: Brandon Tourism

  • Spruce Woods Provincial Park remains one of the best winter-trail playgrounds in Westman. Its groomed networks, including the Epinette, Seton and Yellow Quill trails are great for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or even a crisp winter hike

  • If you’re near Neepawa, the winter-ready trails at Neepawa‑Langford Winter Park offer a user-friendly, accessible option – ideal for first-time snowshoers or families

  • Prefer to stay closer to urban amenities? The Riverbank Discovery Centre in Brandon also makes for a nice winter outing, with trails that offer winter walking or snowshoeing while staying near the city

NOTE: Check trail conditions before heading out – and if trails are groomed for skiing, stay off classic tracks if you’re snowshoeing or walking

2. Hit the Slopes

*Ski Valley, Minnedosa – Photo Credit: Travel Manitoba

Ski Valley , just outside of Minnedosa offers gentle beginner slopes and more challenging runs for experienced riders, in addition to:

  • Full rental shop with skis, snowboards, and helmets available

  • On-site ski and snowboard lessons for all ages

  • Warm, cozy chalet with café-style food and great views of the hill

  • Relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with affordable lift tickets

A run down a snowy slope, followed up by a warm drink is a perfect December outing!

3. Cozy Winter Getaway

*Oak Haven Oasis, Nesbitt – Photo Credit: Oak Haven Oasis

  • For a restful escape, the glamping-style domes at Oak Haven Oasis offer a cozy retreat just south of Brandon. Think: private deck, hot tub under the stars, warm fireplace, and easy access to winter trails for skiing or snowshoeing

Snowy views from inside of a toasty dome is the perfect way to enjoy winter… add in a starry night and you’ve got winter magic!

4. Enjoy Simple Winter Fun

*Brandon Skating Oval – Photo Credit: Brandon Sun
Love skating? Many parks and community facilities across Westman offer winter skating — a classic Winter activity for all ages!
  • Check out the The City of Brandon’s skating oval, which includes warming shacks, portable washroom facilities, flood lighting, ambient music, and fire pits to cook on or warm up around. In addition, the Manitoba Hydro Power Smart Waterfall of Lights is also lit until 11 p.m. each evening so the public can skate around the oval and take in the brilliant, festive displays during the holiday season

  • Tobogganing or snow tubing offers another fun way to embrace winter – especially families looking for affordable outdoor fun. Head to Valleyview Tubing Hill near MacGregor to enjoy some quality time out in the snow.  The hill features a heated building with canteen, tow rope and hours of fun! Bookings include tube rentals

5. Embrace the Holiday Spirit

*CP Holiday Train

As winter brings snow and chill, Southwest Manitoba warms up with holiday spirit – community events, concerts, markets, and lots of festive cheer!

Christmas in the Valley, taking place December 5th-6th in Minnedosa features a number of family friendly activities, including:

  • CP Holiday Train Visit: The brightly lit train will stop in Minnedosa on Friday, December 5th
  • Santa Parade: The annual Christmas parade takes place on Saturday, December 6th
  • Christmas Market/Craft Sales: Stock up on local goods at various venues during the celebrations
  • Lighting of the Memory Tree:  hot cocao, Christmas carols and fireworks held at the local Heritage Village
  • Red Moon Road Concert: Red Moon Road will perform a Christmas concert the evening before the festivities at the Minnedosa Community Conference Centre. Tickets are available via Eventbrite or the Minnedosa Regional Library

Head to the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium in Brandon to catch a performance of the full-length Broadway-style musical of Frozen

  • Showings run from December 3rd–6th with multiple performances, including matinees and evening shows – get your tickets HERE!

  • Great for all ages!

December in Southwest Manitoba invites you to embrace winter – not just endure it. From pristine ski tracks in forested parks, slopes for snow-seekers, cozy domes with hot tubs under the stars, fun outdoor skating and tubing and lively events, this season is full of heart (and snow)!

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