Dear Downtown Winnipeg BIZ Member,

Public health orders extended for one more week

On Friday, January 28, the Province announced they will be extending the current public health restrictions that were set to expire on Tuesday, Feb. 1.

Restaurants, licensed premises and food courts

• Proof of vaccination is required for those 12 years of age and older.

• Individuals are required to wear masks.

• No proof of vaccination required for entering solely for the purpose of picking up takeout or delivery orders.

• Premises are limited to 50 per cent capacity or 250 people, whichever is lower.

• Premises are limited to seated service only with a maximum of 10 people per table.

• Liquor sales must end at 10 p.m. daily.

Gyms and fitness centres

• Capacity limited to 50 per cent or 250 people, whichever is less, with proof of immunization required everywhere.

Retail & malls

• Physical distancing measures are required.

• Masks required indoors.

Professional sports, performing arts events, movie theatres

• Limited to 50 per cent capacity or 250 people, whichever is less, with proof of immunization required everywhere.

Museums & galleries

• Museums operate under the requirement to show proof of vaccination when open to the public as a museum.

• Capacity limited to 50 per cent or 250 people, whichever is less, with proof of immunization required everywhere.

These public health orders are now set to expire at 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 8. The full list of restrictions can be found in the Province’s Jan. 28 backgrounder (PDF).

Winter Wanderland ice sculptures coming to downtown

Last year we brought “Snowfas” downtown and this year we bring “Winter Wanderland”, building on the idea that people visiting the river trail can wander into downtown to visit the unique businesses within walking distance.

As you may have heard, we’ve partnered with Sputnik Architecture to install ice sculptures at six different downtown locations from Bonnycastle Park to the Burton Cummings Theatre.

Carving will begin soon and we plan on launching next week, when the sculptures are complete.

If you would like, you can download Winter Wanderland graphics to use in your own promotions. Those cold scavenger hunters will probably be looking for some warm beverages or cocktails so it might be a good idea to remind them about all the great items you have to offer. Email saz@downtownwinnipegbiz.com if you have any questions or would like help with some Winter Wanderland marketing ideas.

Here is a sample social media post:

We’ll also be offering a scavenger hunt with Downtown Winnipeg Gift Cards as prizes to further entice downtown exploration in Winnipeg. If you haven’t yet signed up to accept the gift cards and are interested, email info@downtownwinnipegbiz.com for details on getting started. The process is quick and easy.

Sector Support Program grant applications close soon

Earlier this month, we told you about the Province’s Sector Support Program grant. This program provides assistance to businesses affected by the public health order restrictions in effect from December 21, 2021 to January 11, 2022. It also includes support for businesses that donated surplus food to organizations that help Manitobans in need.

Applications close Jan. 31. Visit the Sector Support Program website for details and to apply.

As always, please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions:
204-958-4640
info@downtownwinnipegbiz.com

Thank you,

Kate Fenske, CEO
Downtown Winnipeg BIZ