Published on
October 27, 2025
The 2025 Grey Cup Festival in Winnipeg, Manitoba, is not just any ordinary event. It’s Canada’s biggest social celebration, a festival that brings together fans, families, music lovers, and foodies from across the nation. Spanning from November 10 to 16, this exciting week promises to offer something for everyone—whether you’re a sports fan, music enthusiast, or someone looking for family-friendly activities. Here’s a complete guide to everything you need to know about the 2025 Grey Cup Festival. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Winnipeg!
A Glimpse into the Grey Cup Festival
The Grey Cup Festival is all about celebrating Canadian football. It’s a massive event that builds up to the thrilling Grey Cup game itself, which takes place on November 16, 2025. However, the fun doesn’t stop there. The festival is packed with a wide variety of events that make it more than just a sporting occasion.
Winnipeg, Manitoba, will come alive with music, food, special events, and cultural celebrations. Various venues across the city, including the RBC Convention Centre, Princess Auto Stadium, and The Forks, will host the events. It’s not just about watching football; it’s about immersing yourself in the entire Grey Cup experience.
The Heart of the Action: Key Events You Can’t Miss
There’s so much more to the Grey Cup Festival than the Grey Cup game. Let’s dive into the key events that make this festival one of the most exciting in Canada.
Coors Light Concert Series
Music lovers will be treated to incredible live performances at the Coors Light Concert Series. Held from November 13 to 15 at the RBC Convention Centre, the concert series brings together top Canadian and international artists. If you enjoy live music and the buzz of a huge crowd, this event will be a highlight of your week.
Alongside the music, fans will also have the opportunity to participate in team social events, where they can meet players and mingle with fellow fans. Whether you’re into rock, pop, or country, the Coors Light Concert Series will surely have something that gets you on your feet.
CIBC Taste of the CFL
For those who love to indulge in unique and delicious food, the CIBC Taste of the CFL is a must-attend event. Taking place on November 14, 2025, at the RBC Convention Centre, this event celebrates Canada’s rich culinary diversity. The dishes served at this event are inspired by the CFL teams and the cities they represent. It’s a one-of-a-kind opportunity to taste local specialties and learn more about the food culture from across the country.
Winnipeg Free Press CFLAA Legends Luncheon
If you’re a true football fan, don’t miss the Winnipeg Free Press CFLAA Legends Luncheon on November 14. Hosted at the Club Regent Event Centre, this special luncheon honors CFL legends. It’s a fantastic opportunity to hear personal stories and experiences from former players who made Canadian football history. Get ready to be inspired by the legends themselves, who will share their memories from their playing days and what it meant to be part of the CFL.
Gala Dinner: A Night of Elegance
The Gala Dinner, presented by Johnston Group & Payworks, is the perfect event for those looking for a classy night out. Set for November 15, this elegant dinner will feature gourmet food, live entertainment, and fundraising activities that support CFL initiatives. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy great food, while also giving back to the sport that brings so many people together.
Tri-Indigenous Energy Pregame Indoor Tailgate
On November 16, the cultural celebrations at the Grey Cup Festival will reach new heights with the Tri-Indigenous Energy Pregame Indoor Tailgate. This event, held at the RBC Convention Centre, will showcase Indigenous performances, cuisine, and traditions. It’s a beautiful celebration of Indigenous culture, and it sets the stage perfectly for the Grey Cup game later that day.
Brad Paisley Concert
Country music fans will be thrilled by the performance of Brad Paisley. On November 15, this American country music star will perform live, adding even more excitement to the festival’s already packed entertainment lineup. If you love country music, this concert is one of the best ways to experience the energy of the festival.
Free Community Events: Fun for Everyone
The Grey Cup Festival is designed to be inclusive and family-friendly. While there are plenty of ticketed events, there are also free community events that make the festival accessible to everyone.
Wawanesa Street Festival
The Wawanesa Street Festival is a lively outdoor street party, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy live music, delicious food from local vendors, and fun interactive experiences. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon with friends and family, soaking in the atmosphere of the festival and the excitement of the city.
Canada Life Family Zone
The Canada Life Family Zone is a fantastic family-friendly hub that offers games, activities, and entertainment for all ages. Whether you’re bringing your kids or just want to enjoy a fun, relaxed day out, this area of the festival is perfect for families.
TELUS CFL Fan Experience
Football fans will love the TELUS CFL Fan Experience, an interactive zone where you can meet CFL legends, take part in immersive football experiences, and enjoy exclusive Grey Cup content. This fan zone will allow you to get up close and personal with the sport you love, while also learning about the history of Canadian football.
TDS Law Outdoor Social
The TDS Law Outdoor Social is another fantastic outdoor gathering that features live entertainment and activities for people of all ages. Whether you’re with a group of friends or your whole family, this outdoor social is a great way to meet new people and be part of the community atmosphere.
Santa Parade
As the Grey Cup Festival coincides with the holiday season, the Santa Parade brings a festive touch to the event. Watch as holiday floats, music, and appearances by Santa Claus fill the streets with joy and excitement. It’s a perfect way to start getting into the Christmas spirit!
The Grey Cup Game: The Ultimate Showdown
Of course, the Grey Cup Festival would not be complete without the iconic Grey Cup game itself. The 112th Grey Cup Championship will take place on November 16, 2025, at Princess Auto Stadium in Winnipeg. This is the culmination of the entire festival, where the top CFL teams battle it out for the prestigious Grey Cup trophy.
Expect an electric atmosphere as thousands of fans pack the stadium, ready to cheer on their teams. The game is sure to be a thrilling match, with top-tier athletes showcasing their skills on the field.
Halftime Show and Entertainment
The Grey Cup game is not just about football; it’s a celebration of Canadian culture. The halftime show is set to feature a performance by Machine Gun Kelly (MGK), a popular American artist known for his dynamic musical style. Additionally, Métis country singer Catie St. Germain will perform the national anthem, adding a unique Canadian touch to the event.
How to Get Around Winnipeg During the Festival
If you’re planning to attend the Grey Cup Festival, you’ll want to know how to navigate Winnipeg during this bustling week. Luckily, the city offers a range of transportation options to make getting around easy.
- Public Transit: Winnipeg Transit offers convenient bus services throughout the city, including the BLUE rapid transit line, which connects downtown to the University of Manitoba area.
- Park & Ride: If you’re driving, the Park & Ride service will take you directly to Princess Auto Stadium, making it easier to get to the game.
- Ride-Sharing: Services like Uber, Lyft, and TappCar are also available in Winnipeg, so you can easily book a ride to your destination.
The city’s downtown area is highly walkable, so you can also explore key venues on foot. Everything is within a 10–15 minute walk of each other, so you won’t need to worry about long commutes between events.
Tickets and Information: Don’t Miss Out
If you’re excited about attending the 2025 Grey Cup Festival, make sure to get your tickets early. The event is expected to attract thousands of visitors, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead. For ticketing information, event schedules, and volunteering opportunities, head over to the official Grey Cup Festival website. It’s the best place to get all the details you need for an unforgettable experience.
A Festival Like No Other
The 2025 Grey Cup Festival in Winnipeg is an event that promises excitement, celebration, and community spirit. From thrilling football action to live music, cultural events, and family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a die-hard CFL fan or someone simply looking to enjoy a fun and festive week in Manitoba, this event is not to be missed. So, mark your calendars, pack your bags, and get ready for a week of unforgettable memories at the 2025 Grey Cup Festival!
