1. ADVENTURE: On the cutting edge
At 4,000 square metres of concrete, The Plaza at The Forks is the largest skateable sculpture park of its kind in Canada. The award-winning plaza is chiselled into Winnipeg’s downtown cityscape and backs onto the Forks Market (a Manitoba meeting place for more than 6,000 years and a present-day tourist destination). Visitors can cruise alongside a fleet of daredevil skateboarders, BMX bikers and in-line skaters in the central plaza and adjacent 800-square-metre bowl complex, which have plenty of dynamic features to challenge both veterans and newbies. The Plaza is modelled after some of the hottest international skate spots but has become a benchmark for modern design, especially after garnering praise from skateboarding legend Tony Hawk.
(888) 942-6302;
www.theforks.com.

2. FAMILY: Dressed in history
Tucked into Winnipeg’s funky Exchange District, the Costume Museum of Canada uses clothing to illustrate history. The tales the garments tell will keep all ages intrigued. Journey into Canada’s rich multicultural fabric through a maze of mannequins dressed in clothing from pre-Confederation to modern day. Kids will love dressing up in a whimsical wardrobe of authentic formal fashions, and custom-made paper dolls teach little fashionistas about clothing from the 1800s to the 1930s. From Sept. 4 to Nov. 6, look for “Interwoven,” an ethnographic exhibition by the University of Manitoba. Cost: $3.50 for students, $5 for adults and $4.50 for seniors.
(204) 989-0072;
www.costumemuseum.com.

3. BUSINESS: Sophisticated suds
Raise a glass to the harvest moon at the annual Flatlander’s Beer Festival. On the evenings of Sept. 18 and 19, the second level of the Winnipeg Convention Centre becomes a sprawling array of public tasting stands boasting more than 110 premium imported and local beers, including Fort Garry Brew of Winnipeg. Beer representatives encourage discussion about brewing techniques and help thirsty visitors dissect the complex flavour notes in every glass. A classic pub-grub menu is available at the event, but the ultimate food-and-beer pairing comes the week before, at the Flatlander’s Beer Dinner. The decadent menu features five courses, each served with a carefully selected beer that complements its flavours. The best part? The proceeds are distributed to a local children’s charity. Public tastings are $27.95 per person; Flatlander’s Beer Dinner costs $125 per person.
www.flatlandersbeerfest.com.

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