Community Events Illuminate Brandon This Holiday Season

As the holiday season approaches, the city of Brandon, Manitoba, is bustling with a range of community events designed to engage residents and visitors alike. On December 11, 2025, a variety of festivities are set to take place, providing opportunities for social interaction, cultural enjoyment, and seasonal celebration.

Thursday Activities Spark Community Engagement

Starting at 1:30 p.m., the weekly *Taoist Tai Chi* class at *Trinity United Church* welcomes participants until 3 p.m. Note that there will be no classes on December 25 and January 1. Later in the day, the *Global Café Meet Up* begins at 5 p.m. at the *WIS Multicultural Centre*, inviting individuals to relax and connect over games, music, and crafts.

As the sun sets, the annual holiday light display at the *Skating Oval* on McGregor Avenue shines brightly from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Visitors can marvel at the enchanting lights while enjoying a serene walk through the winter spectacle. Parking is available along McGregor Avenue and Hilton Avenue.

In a celebration of music, the *Chamber Music Class Concert* unfolds at the *Lorne Watson Recital Hall*, featuring compositions by renowned artists such as *W.A. Mozart* and *Clara Schumann*. This free event showcases talented pianists and violinists, inviting all to partake in the musical atmosphere.

The evening continues with a festive *Celebration of Music and Joy* presented by the *Meadows School Christmas Concert* at the *Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium*. Tickets can be purchased through the WMCA box office. Also, the *Neelin Choirs* will perform *Winter Wassail* at *First Presbyterian Church*, offering a delightful experience for attendees.

Weekend Events Bring Festivity and Family Fun

Friday kicks off with the *Brandon Farmers’ Market*, operating from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at *The Town Centre*. This year-round market features seasonal produce, baked goods, and crafts. As the day progresses, the *Asessippi Ski Resort* tentatively opens for the season from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Skiers and snowboarders can enjoy the slopes over the weekend.

At 6 p.m., the *Wild Spirits Winter Pop-up Dining Experience* at the *Lakehouse in Clear Lake* invites diners to savor a multi-course meal crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Reservations can be made through the Lakehouse website.

Sports enthusiasts can catch the *Brandon Wheat Kings* as they host the *Kelowna Rockets* at 7 p.m. at the *Assiniboine Credit Union Place*. This game features the much-anticipated Teddy Bear Toss, where fans are encouraged to bring stuffed animals to throw onto the ice.

Saturday is filled with diverse activities, including the *Brandon Wildlife Association’s 40th Annual Gun and Collectibles Show* from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Keystone Centre. Admission is $10, with free entry for those aged 15 and under.

Families can engage in creative fun at the *Investigate It!* program at the *Downtown Library Branch* from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., where children can explore forensic science through hands-on activities.

As evening falls, the *Club 77* invites attendees to dance at the *Shriner’s Hall*, featuring live entertainment from *Lyle Baldwin*. Admission to this lively event is $15.

Sunday Celebrations and Community Spirit

Sunday offers a chance for community involvement with the *Westman Naturalists’ Annual Christmas Bird Count*, starting at 8 a.m. Participants can observe local bird populations, contributing to a North American-wide initiative.

At 3 p.m., the *Mecca Family Holiday Concert* takes place at the *Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium*, showcasing over 150 performers celebrating the joy of the holiday season. Tickets are available for purchase through the WMCA box office.

For those seeking festive fun, *Santa Claus* will be at *The Green Spot* for photo sessions from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering a delightful experience for families.

Brandon’s varied events this weekend not only highlight the spirit of the season but also foster a sense of community and togetherness, making it a time for celebration and connection.

As residents embrace these local festivities, the city comes alive with joy, creativity, and warmth, encouraging everyone to participate and enjoy the holiday spirit.