Winnipeg Prepares for Louis Riel Day 2026 with Updated Service Schedules
As Louis Riel Day approaches on February 16, 2026, the City of Winnipeg has released comprehensive information regarding operating hours and closures for municipal services and facilities. This provincial holiday, honoring Métis leader Louis Riel, will see adjustments across various sectors to accommodate the day of observance.
Municipal Services and Government Offices
All City of Winnipeg administrative offices will be closed on Louis Riel Day, including city hall and local service centers. Emergency services such as police, fire, and paramedics will remain fully operational throughout the holiday. The 311 contact center will be available for urgent matters only, with regular business hours resuming on Tuesday, February 17.
Waste collection and recycling services will follow their regular schedules, though residents are advised to place bins at the curb by 7:00 AM to ensure timely pickup. The Brady Road Landfill and all recycling depots will maintain normal operating hours throughout the holiday weekend.
Public Transit and Transportation
Winnipeg Transit will operate on a Sunday schedule for Louis Riel Day, with reduced frequency on most routes. The downtown Spirit bus service will not be running, and regular weekday schedules will resume on Tuesday. Parking enforcement will be relaxed for the holiday, with no parking tickets issued except in areas designated for safety or accessibility concerns.
All public libraries across Winnipeg will be closed on Monday, with digital services remaining accessible through the library's online portal. Community centers and swimming pools will have modified hours, with many offering special holiday programming for families.
Retail and Business Operations
Most major shopping centers, including Polo Park, St. Vital Centre, and Kildonan Place, will be open with reduced hours on Louis Riel Day. Grocery stores and pharmacies will generally operate on holiday schedules, though some locations may have limited hours. Residents are encouraged to check with individual businesses for specific operating times.
The following services will experience closures or modified hours:
- Bank branches and credit unions will be closed
- Canada Post will not deliver mail
- Most federal and provincial government offices will be closed
- Schools and universities will be closed for the holiday
Recreational and Cultural Facilities
Several cultural institutions will offer special programming for Louis Riel Day. The Canadian Museum for Human Rights will be open with free admission for Manitoba residents, while the Winnipeg Art Gallery will host family-friendly activities throughout the day. Assiniboine Park Zoo will operate on regular winter hours, with indoor exhibits available for visitors.
Outdoor skating rinks and toboggan hills will be maintained throughout the holiday weekend, weather permitting. The Forks Market will be open with extended hours to accommodate holiday visitors, though some individual vendors may choose to close for the day.
As Winnipeg prepares to honor Louis Riel's legacy, residents are reminded to plan ahead for service adjustments and take advantage of the various cultural and recreational opportunities available throughout the holiday weekend.
