Winnipeg - Chinese Lantern Light Festival

An evening jaunt to the Lights of the North: The Chinese Lantern Light Festival, the largest Event of this type in Canada, was a treat. Heading out of town to the Red River Exhibition Park, we were fascinated by the silk lantern sculptures and the massive dragon built entirely from plates and teacups. With daily acrobatic and fireworks presentations the exhibition privided a lot to enjoy. However it was oddly poorly attended. Again, where are all the people?

Winnipeg - Day 2

Brunch at Clementine's downtown came highly recommended and rightfully so. You will have to go early though, or suffer a long line-up.

Weaving along the streets you will come across several gems as some architecture has been well maintained or the facades Incorporated in new buildings. Don't know where all the people are, though, as the streets are deserted and even the Starbucks is almost empty.

A visit to the WAG (Winnipeg Art Gallery) is well worth your time to  experience an outstanding Inuit art collection, with a new ambitious gallery underway.

The Manitoba Legislature is a magnificent building. Greeted by two large bison, a gorgeous marble staircase leads to the legislative chambers. What an entrance!

A little detour into Union Station is warranted, as this was the test case designed by the man who built New York's Central Station. It is an impressive building.

The Canadian Museum for Human Rights should be given several visits, as it is a lot to absorb in one go. The museum itself is organized around a tightening spiral of 7 layers as you wind your way up and then finally, acsend 100 steps to the pinnacle, providing panoramic views of the city.

Dinner at Passero in the Forks Market was a real treat, after exploring the grounds and then browsing the wares of the market.

Winnipeg - Day 1

The Fort Gary is a lovely old hotel, nicely situated within walking distance to several cultural attractions. Walking west I quickly hit Portage & Main, a corner reknowned for wind. It did not help that  today was a cold and rainy day, with the rain making it into flurries every so often. 

My first stop is the Manitiba Museum. My absolute favourite here is the recreation of an urban 1920's town. Really well done and lots of fun to explore. The Nonsuch Gallery is also a gem. An exact replica of the boat was built on this site and then the museum designed and built around the boat.

After a break for dinner at the popular Across the Board Games Cafe, I went back to the museum, to the planetarium, for a laser light show. Great entertainment!

Ossington Theatre - The Producers

Fantastic musical with very strong leads, really good choreography and great comedic timing. A fantastic show all around.

Top 50 Thinkers

Kathleen McLaughlin, ranked one of the top 50 speakers and doers by Fortune, is a fascinating speaker. It was inspiring to hear about the measures Walmart is taking to promote sustainability in their supply chains and operations. However, one might feel this is somewhat at odds with the low pricing model that encourages excessive consumerism. 

Soulpepper - Sisters

I really enjoyed this show. Elegant and moving, the relationship between the sisters was genuine. Believable for the time, thanks to a strong case all around, we could feel the joy, envy and despair. 

Swarofsky TIFF Event

Anyone who knows me knows I am a huge Swarofsky fan, with quite the collection of sparkling gems. My close friend, another big fan, and I were invited to a panel discussion on authenticity in film with a fascinating group of women including TV stars and the global head of marketing for Swarofsky. Tattoos and glamour shots with atelier pieces were available - we really enjoyed this event.

Cabbagetown Arts & Crafts Festival

An annual favourite in the east end of town, part of a larger weekend festival in Cabbagetown, there is lots to see and do. There are unique items at this show in a very broad selection. It’s a lovely way too spend an afternoon.

ROM - Transforming Fashion and Space

Two amazing shows at the ROM, that you don’t want to miss
1. Iris van Herpen: Transforming Fashion - incredible use of materials you would not expect to make some very unique dresses. Must be seen to be appreciated.
2. Philip Beasley: Transforming Space - gorgeous sculptures that are exploring side and serene. You must see this in person to fully appreciate it. Take your time to absorb and enjoy it.

CNE

Another great year at the CNE. The Skating & Acrobat Show was fabulous, as always. The Craft Building filled with gems and the Food building continues to up their game, while still providing a wide array of sinful treats. The Chinese Silk Lantern exhibit was breathtaking and definitely my highlight for this year.