Let’s Do Something — March 27, 2025

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TODAY

• 10 a.m. — Western Manitoba Regional Library is holding a book sale at the Shoppers Mall Library Branch from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. This is a fundraiser to support the Shoppers Mall Library. For more information, visit wmrlshoppermall@wmrl.ca or call 204-725-9901.

• 1 p.m. — 365 Group for cancer survivors, caregivers and those who love them meets at Murray House (521 Frederick St.). Please call Larry at 204-728-0221 or Anne at 204-728-9958 to register or for more information.

FRIDAY

• 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. — The 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.

• 10 a.m. — The Western Manitoba Regional Library is holding a book sale at the Shoppers Mall Library Branch from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. This is a fundraiser to support the Shoppers Mall Library. For more information, visit wmrlshoppermall@wmrl.ca or call 204-725-9901.

• 11:15 a.m. — The Parkinsons Social Group meets at Aaltos Restaurant in the Canad Inn (1125 18th St.). Open to people with Parkinsons, care partners and their family and friends. For more information, call Valerie at 204-761-6196.

• 1:30 p.m. — A Central Senior Dance takes place 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.

• 7:30 p.m. — The Evans Theatre on the Brandon University campus returns for 2025. Showing this weekend: “Universal Language.” All seats are $6. All concession items, $2. Save money with a five-movie pass for $25. Cash only please.

SATURDAY

• 10 a.m. — The Western Manitoba Regional Library is holding a book sale at the Shoppers Mall Library Branch from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. This is a fundraiser to support the Shoppers Mall Library. For more information, visit wmrlshoppermall@wmrl.ca or call 204-725-9901.

• 10 a.m. — The Prairie Babette is hosting a Spring Fling Craft Fair at the Clarion Hotel (3130 Victoria Ave.) until 4 p.m. Featuring a variety of handcrafted goods, delicious baked goods, crochet creations, flax bags, potato bags, bowl cozies, knitted items, 3D art and much, much more. Something for everyone. 50/50 draw and raffle prizes. Silver collection at the door to benefit Funds for Furry Friends, supporting local animal rescue efforts.

• 11 a.m. — A perogy sale will take place at St. Jude’s Church (Main Street, Erickson) from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cost is $30 for a frozen bag of five dozen. Will also be held on April 5.

• 11 a.m. — Join us for a perogy luncheon and raffle table at the Ukrainian Reading Hall (1005 Assiniboine Ave.) from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Enjoy delicious Ukrainian food such as perogies, cabbage rolls, Borscht, paska and baba (Easter bread), Ukrainian sausage as well as baking. Come early as supplies are limited. Proceeds go to church upkeep and Ukrainian relief.

• 1 p.m. — The last event in our workshop series: Art* as Activism — Picket Sign Workshop, takes place today at the Art Gallery of Southwestern Manitoba from 1 to 4 p.m. Art lecture and sign making with artist Marin Curtis. This is a free event, but you must RSVP at agsm.ca/event/picket-sign-workshop-2/

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

• 7:30 p.m. — Prairie 21 is hosting a dance at Seniors for Seniors (311 Park Ave. East) from 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. with music by Kawliga. Cost is $20 at the door. Dry bar. Light lunch at 9 p.m. For more information, call Kareen at 204-724-9760.

• 7:30 p.m. — The Evans Theatre on the Brandon University campus returns for 2025. Showing this weekend: “Universal Language.” All seats are $6. All concession items, $2. Save money with a five-movie pass for $25. Cash only please.

SUNDAY

• 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. — “Frozen In Time” takes place at the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium (205 20th St.) with showtimes at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Join your two favourite princesses for a magical afternoon filled with storytelling 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.

• 2 p.m. — The Evans Theatre on the Brandon University campus returns for 2025. Showing this weekend: “Universal Language.” All seats are $6. All concession items, $2. Save money with a five-movie pass for $25. Cash only please.

• 2 p.m. — Westman Jams gathers on the last Sunday of each month to play classic country music at The Fringe, on Cove Road in Shilo from 2 to 5 p.m. Admission is free and all are welcome. We accept donations to the Reg Jones Memorial Scholarship Fund to help send Westman students to the International Music Camp at the International Peace Garden. For more information or directions, call Midge at 204-728-5611.

MONDAY

• Day — 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. Today: Heroes Day. Sunrise breakfast in the Dome Building from 7 to 10 a.m.; Starts at 9 a.m.; opening ceremony at 6:30 p.m.

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. — 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.). Tickets are available at the WMCA box office or by calling 204-728-9510.

TUESDAY

• Day — The Royal Manitoba Winter Fair, one of Western Canada’s largest agricultural events and the largest annual event to be held in Brandon, continues at the Keystone Centre. 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. Today: 4-H Day. Starts at 8:45 a.m.; opening ceremony 6:30 p.m.; evening show 7 p.m.

• 7 p.m. — 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.). Tickets are available at the WMCA box office or by calling 204-728-9510.

• 7:30 p.m. — Pro Series Concert: JD Trio takes place at the Lorne Watson Recital Hall. Join us for an evening of modern jazz and contemporary chamber music featuring Jesse Dietschi, Brandon University Music alum. Jesse Dietschi, bass; Ewen Farncombe, piano; Ethan Ardelli, drums. Tickets are $20 and are available at the door. BU students and Conservatory of Music students attend at no additional charge.

WEDNESDAY

• Day — The Royal Manitoba Winter Fair, one of Western Canada’s largest agricultural events and the largest annual event to be held in Brandon, continues at the Keystone Centre. 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. Today: RBC Family Day. Starts at 8:45 a.m.; opening ceremony 6:30 p.m.; evening show 7 p.m.

• 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.

• 5:30 p.m. — The South West Manitoba Genealogical Society Inc. is hosting its Heritage Dinner in the lower level of Knox United Church (451 18th St.). Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; dinner at 6 p.m. Guest speaker is Gordon Goldsborough. Topic: Building the Invisible: A history of public infrastructure in Manitoba. Also featuring the Ruth Tester Memorial Award presentation. Tickets are $35 per person. For tickets, email bjandrew@wcgwave.ca. or call 204-727-3054. Deadline for tickets is March 25.

AT THE CLUBS

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

• Lady of the Lake (135-B 17th St. North) — Come join us on Friday for an intimate evening of live music with Chris Froome, a talented solo-acoustic singer-songwriter. Fee, $5 at the door. Music from 8 to 10 p.m. Upcoming: April 10, Dinner, Fashion Show and Fundraiser. Tickets available in-store or by calling 204-725-4181.

• The 40 (210 18th St. North, Brandon) — Join us on Friday for some live rock and country music with Roulette. Cover, $10 at the door. Then on Saturday for one night only, it’s The Incredibly Hip, who capture the spirit and intensity of Canada’s most beloved band The Tragically Hip. Opening the night is the Stoneheads, Canada’s tribute to The Headstones! Doors open at 8:30 p.m.; show at 10 p.m. Advance tickets available at showpass.com. Door admission night of show is $25. These are both 18+ events and a valid photo ID is required.

• Sand Hills Casino (777 Sand Hill Drive, Carberry) — Mandy Ducharme entertains at the Oasis Bar & Grill Friday and Saturday with some 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.

• Eastside Eatery (1451 Richmond Ave.) — Join us for open mic night on Friday at Eastside Eatery. Doors open and signup starts at 7 p.m.; show at 8 p.m. $5 at the door. Bring your humour, bring your instrument, whatever your talent is … the stage is yours!

• Chez Angela Bakery and Café (Unit C, 29 10th St., Brandon) — Jazz Night in the Café on Friday night from 6 to 8 p.m. with 10 talented jazz musicians organized by the studio of Graydon Cramer.

• Great Western Roadhouse (1125 18th St. at Canad Inns) — Come join us at Brandon’s party bar!

• Houstons Country Roadhouse (3130 Victoria Ave.) — Saturday it’s a UV Blacklight Glow Party! Join us as we welcome back DJ Turbulence. $5 cover. Free light sticks and glow bracelets.

• Black Wheat Brewing (402 10th St.) — Join us every Saturday for “Music of the Decades!” Come for the tunes; stay for the fun. Upcoming: April 3, Double Double Comedy Show with Peter Saran and Ben McKay. Tickets are $20.

• The Dock on Princess (1133 Princess Ave.) — Every Thursday night is Student Night. Show us your student ID for food and drink specials from 3 p.m. to close. Upcoming: April 3, Bull Ruckus live in the pub. Happy hour set at 5 p.m. then again at 7:30 p.m. Call to book a table 204-726-1234.

• Eagles Nest Bar & Grill (3500 McDonald Ave.) — Saturday is the throwback Reggaeton Party, the ultimate Latin night dedicated to the golden era of reggaeton, classic reggaeton and perreo. Music by DJ David Gomez, DJ Wilson and DJ Cristhian.

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. “Prairie Thunder” is a new Main Gallery exhibition, and the opening reception will be held in the gallery on April 5 at 6 p.m. with performances by Cheyenne Legrande and Cikwes at 6:30 p.m. 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. 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

• April 3 — Brandon University School of Music presents Piano Ensemble Class Concert, under the direction of Prof. Alexander Tselyakov, at the Lorne Watson Recital Hall at 3:30 p.m. All are welcome. No admission fee.

• April 3-5 — 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 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 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 5 — The Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium presents The Comic Strippers at 7:30 p.m. Come enjoy this stripper parody and improv comedy show. 18+ only event. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. No extreme nudity, just extreme hilarity! Tickets are available at the WMCA box office or by calling 204-728-9510.

• April 5 — Knox United Church (18th and Victoria) will have their Spring Indoor Garage Sale from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

• April 5 — Steppin’ Out Dance will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion No. 3 (560 13th St. East) from 7:30 to 11 p.m. with live music by Northern Reflections. Lunch served. All are welcome. For more information, call Barbara 204-728-5636 or Dolores at 204-727-4999.

• April 5 — A perogy sale will take place at St. Jude’s Church (Main Street, Erickson) from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cost is $30 for a frozen bag of five dozen.

• April 6 — The Mini Pops Kids 29th Anniversary Celebration Tour will take place at the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium at 3 p.m. This is a can’t-miss event performed by kids, for kids and adults, too. Tickets are available at the WMCA box office or by calling 204-728-9510.

• April 7 — Brandon’s Women in Harmony invites treble singers to a Prospective Member Night at Trinity United Church (1515 Sixth St.) Registration starts at 6:30 p.m.; rehearsal at 7 p.m. Previous choir singing experience or ability to read music is not necessary! For more info, call Naomi at 204-724-5152. We’ll help you “find your voice.”

• April 9-June 11 — The City of Brandon Parks and Recreation is offering a Dungeons and Dragons Club on Wednesdays from 6 to 8 p.m., from April 9 to June 11 at the A.R. McDiarmid Civic Complex in the T.E. Snure Room (638 Princess Ave. Door C). Cost is $200. Create your own character and join us for an exciting 10-week campaign. Register at t.ly/60k2U to secure your spot.

• April 10 — The City of Brandon Parks and Recreation Services invites you to Practical Paint Night Mirror at Chez Angela Bakery and Café (29 C 10th St.) from 5 to 7:45 p.m. Join us for a creative and relaxing evening where you can express yourself through art. Tickets are $50, and you can register at brandon.ca/recreation-programs or by calling 204-729-2471.

• April 10-12 — Mecca Production presents Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus’ “Mamma Mia!” at the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium with performances nightly at 7:30 p.m. as well as a matinée on April 12 at 2 p.m. VIP Reception on April 10 and 11 only. Tickets are available at the WMCA box office or by calling 204-728-9510.

• April 11 — Kaleidoscope Concerts Series Neepawa presents the Winnipeg-based jazz singer Nadia Douglas at ArtsForward. Adult tickets, $20; students $5.

• April 11 — Royal Canadian Legion No. 3 is hosting a pulled pork and trivia night starting at 6:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend. Tickets at the Legion. Cost is $12. Ticket available only until April 9.

• April 11-13 — The Brandon Home and Leisure Show returns to the Keystone Centre this weekend. Come see the latest innovations in home, building, leisure and recreation products and services from Westman’s leading businesses all under one roof. Hours: Friday, 1 to 7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Cost at the door: Adults and seniors $5; children 14 and under are free when accompanied by an adult. Food available for purchase; ATMs available and wheelchair accessible.

• April 12 — The 26th Field Regiment/XII Manitoba Dragoons Museum is hosting its annual fundraising dinner at the Brandon Armoury (1116 Victoria Ave.). Doors open at 5:30 p.m. This year’s theme is Second World War-Victory ’45. Cost is $25. Call 204-724-7530 or email 26fomi@gmail.com to reserve your seat. Catered by Double Happiness.

• April 13 — River and Area Lions Club’s Pickerel Fry will be held in the Riverdale Community Complex in the curling rink from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Adults $25; children ages 7-12 years $15; children 6 and under are free. Dine in. Take out, call Deb at 204-740-6575/

• April 14 — Free Death and Taxes Seminar will be held at Monterey Estates Recreation Centre (40 Mockingbird Dr.) at 7 p.m. Please register by emailing sprucewoodsmgr@wcgwave.ca or by calling 204-728-8998.

• April 15-17 — Assiniboine Theatre Company presents “Unnecessary Farce,” a play by Paul Slade Smith at the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium. Adult language and humour. Recommended 14A. Doors open at 6:45 p.m.; backstage tour 7 p.m.; show at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at the WMCA box office or by calling 204-728-9510.

• April 17 — Bachman-Turner Overdrive, the legendary rock band, is performing an extensive tour across Canada with their Back In Overdrive Tour 2025 and will be stopping in Brandon at Westoba Place in the Keystone Centre with support bands April Wine and Headpins at 6:45 p.m.

• 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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