BEYOND THE WINTER IN WINNIPEG, MANITOBA

Community contributor and photographer Michael Pratt takes us with him to central Canada to give us a different perspective on Winnipeg, Manitoba.

When I began my photographic journey in Winnipeg, winter was a time to slow down, pack up some of the photo gear, and wait for spring. Creatively, I didn’t find this season to be enjoyable from a photography perspective. Then I picked up my camera and went downtown to shoot on some cold, snowy days. I continued doing this until I was hooked. Winter became magical. Cinematic. The glow of a neon sign reflecting off falling snow, a streetlamp creating moody shadows or a long line of fans waiting to get into a hockey game in the midst of a regular deep freeze. I discovered a striking beauty. An almost exclusive charm not experienced in any other city in Canada. I’ve enjoyed architectural, cinematic photography, and street photography since I first picked up a camera, and winter has become my favourite season. Winnipeg is a marvellous place to capture those moments.

The city has so much potential for the photographer to create eye-catching and thought-provoking images. For the visitor, you will discover a city in the heart of Canada that is ready to showcase what it has to offer, no matter the season.

Winnipeg is a city of incredible beauty. I might not have believed this myself before moving here nearly twenty years ago. Now, I can say there are a few other places like Winnipeg. It is a city of diversity in both climate and population. Architecturally, a unique blend of old and new. Nearly smack dab in the middle of Canada Winnipeg sits within Treaty 1 Territory and is highlighted by several historically significant areas including the Exchange District and the Forks National Historic Site. Excellent museums, parks, festivals, sporting venues, music, and seasonal activities make Winnipeg a great place to experience. Yes, even in winter.

When it comes to winter, Winnipeg is notable for the cold and snow. I’ve been to many parts of the world and if someone has heard of Winnipeg, they usually always say “it’s cold there!”. Many of those who call this city home proudly call it Winterpeg and many have come to embrace those -30 degree days as a badge of honour. We’re so dedicated to our winter lifestyle that a six-kilometre-long trail on the Assiniboine river was developed – the Nestaweya River Trail – which has gained national recognition.

Winnipeg feels like a city within a park. This is especially evident in the summer when our stunning tree canopy is on full display. This can still be experienced when the temperatures dip below zero. With so many parks and natural spaces available, the opportunities for winter adventures within city limits is incredible. Assiniboine Park is probably the best known and has many trails, walking and bike paths, the Assiniboine Park Zoo, Gardens at The Leaf, Qualico Family Centre and a historic footbridge link to Portage Avenue. Other parks including Kildonan Park and Assiniboine Forest showcase an abundance of natural beauty and are great for those who want to run, ride, cross-country ski or take a casual stroll. For those who want to explore outside the city, you only have to travel a short distance to view the Northern Lights, go ice fishing, snowmobiling, or cross-country skiing.

The Forks lies at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers. This winter in particular, with my daughter now starting to walk, we’ve visited quite often. This attraction has undergone many significant changes over the years and has become a world-class venue, with skating trails, tobogganing, great dining, shopping, Children’s Museum, and proximity to the Canadian Museum for Human rights.

If you’re after great dining experiences, Winnipeg is a gastronomic paradise. With cuisine from across the globe there is no shortage of places to eat, and have a glass of wine or great local beer. Whether you’re in the middle of the city or in one of the many culturally diverse neighbourhoods, you’re sure to find something that will satisfy your taste buds. Winnipeg hosts several professional sports teams including the Winnipeg Jets (hockey), Winnipeg Blue Bombers (football), and Winnipeg Goldeyes (baseball). And yes, we do have an airport! The Royal Winnipeg Ballet (Canada’s oldest ballet), Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre, and Manitoba Museum are only a few of the venues for arts and culture in the city that can be experienced throughout the year.

For anyone thinking about visiting Winnipeg, you won’t be at a loss for things to see and do – even when it’s cold! Come make some memories in winter and experience the city from a different perspective.

~ Mike

See more of Mike’s work:

Instagram: @mpratt_photog
Portfolio: https://www.mprattphoto.com/