The warmer weather and summer vacations have many people looking for free, fun activities.
We offer a wide range of options, from library programs to free museum admission, for people of all ages to enjoy.
Spray pads
Outdoor spray pads are a great way for kids to have fun. Most are open daily from 9:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.
The majority of locations are free to use, with the exception of the ones located at the Transcona Aquatic Park and Kildonan Park Outdoor Pool.
Parents and guardians are reminded that spray pads are unsupervised. Children should be closely supervised at all times and follow all rules.
Stand-alone spray pad facilities don't have washrooms available onsite. Washrooms at nearby recreation centres or community centres may be available, but hours may differ from spray pad hours, so plan ahead!
Pools
Wading pools are another option for children 12 and under to keep cool. They begin to open for the season on July 1. Children under 7 years of age must have a parent or guardian 12 years of age or older actively supervising them at the pool.
You can also cool off at one of our free non-heated outdoor pools. Admission fees apply to heated pools.
If you would rather splash around indoors, there are weekly free swim times during the summer at the majority of our indoor pools.
Library programs
Winnipeg Public Library branches run a wide variety of free programs. The calendar is always being updated with new offerings, or you can check out What’s On for program listings.
If you can't make it down to a branch to take out a book, you can also explore the digital library.
Drop-in programs
Crafts, games, sports, and outdoor activities are just some of the free activities we offer at various locations around the city. Drop-in at our Children’s Free Play and Youth Action Centre sites. There is no cost and pre-registration is not required.
Check the Priceless Fun Guide or contact 311 for more information.
Explore the prairie
There is no cost to visit The Living Prairie Museum. It is geared towards people of all ages and features a 13 hectare tall grass prairie preserve, walking trails, and an interpretive centre. Its goal is to provide awareness and conservation of natural areas, specifically tall grass prairie, through environmental education. Stop by Saturdays in May and June. It's then open Tuesday to Sunday in July and August.
Sheep call the museum home for a few weeks in June and July. They live in a temporary, moveable fenced-in area at the museum and are being used to help with vegetation management.
Check out the museum’s website for a list of free drop-in activities planned for every Saturday in July.
Monarch Butterfly Festival & 50th Anniversary Celebration
It’s a special time at the museum. This year marks 50 years since it was created. Mark your calendar for an anniversary celebration on August 8 & 9 that will also incorporate the popular Monarch Butterfly Festival.
The all-ages event will feature a variety of family friendly activities. More details will be shared on the muesum’s website closer to the event.
Museum Curator Marika Olynyk shares more about the site’s history and why it is so important to protect on this past episode of Our City, Our Podcast. It was released in April 2026.