Winnipeg has been named an official winter city by joining the World Winter Cities Association for Mayors. (DANIEL CRUMP / THE FORKS)
Winnipeg has been embracing winter in fun ways for years, but it was never official until now.
The city has secured accreditation to join 20 other northern cities in becoming a member of the World Winter Cities Association for Mayors (WWCAM).
“Winnipeg’s reputation as a chilly city is a cause for celebration, and I want everyone from here and elsewhere to join me in discovering everything our city does to welcome Old Man Winter every year,” said Mayor Brian Bowman.
“Whether you’re a business owner, resident or visitor, Winnipeg’s cool climate contributes to the city’s sensational and singular appeal.”
The City of Winnipeg and Economic Development Winnipeg Inc. made the submission for consideration into the exclusive cold-weather club.
Winnipeg is known for its many winter festivals, events and attractions, such as Festival du Voyageur, the Red River Mutual Trail, Journey to Churchill at Assiniboine Park Zoo and FortWhyte Alive.
There are also economic benefits to residing in a wintry climate, such as Winnipeg being home to the GE Aviation Engine Testing, Research and Development Centre, New Flyer Industries’ manufacturing plant being able to test its electric buses in cold weather, Red River College’s imminent MotiveLab, and the new MTS data centre, where cold weather reduces cooling costs.
“From both a recreation and economic perspective, Winnipeggers are increasingly embracing their winter-city reality with open arms, open minds and open wallets,” said Dayna Spiring, president and CEO of Economic Development Winnipeg Inc.
A formal announcement surrounding the accreditation is scheduled for later today at The Forks.
