Y2K Takeover: New Year’s Day at The Forks

Posted on Dec 17, 2025 by The Forks Market

Let’s get jiggy with it!

Step into 2026 with free, family-friendly programming at The Forks. New Year’s Day kicks off the Learn to Winter program and brings a full slate of activities for everyone to enjoy, including face painting, storytelling, crafts, live music, karaoke, drag performances, yoga, fitness classes, and outdoor fun.

New Year’s Day entertainment will draw inspiration from the late 1990s and early 2000s, shaping the sound and style of performances throughout the day. The artists performing will reflect the music, energy, and pop culture of that era, creating a playful, nostalgic atmosphere from start to finish. People are encouraged to embrace the spirit of the theme by dressing in fashion inspired by the time, from throwback streetwear to Y2K-era pop and dance styles, helping to turn the celebration into a complete visual and musical experience.

Join us on January 1st, 9 AM – 8PM to join in on the fun!

Here’s a rundown of the events of the day 👇

A drag performer talking to the crowd.

Karaoke, Drag Brunch, and Live DJs

📍The Forks Market - Centre Aisle

Pick up something tasty from The Forks Market and settle in for a vibrant mix of drag and DJ performances curated by Synonym Art Consultation. Plus! Sing your heart out with Karaoke by Alark Co, featuring some of your favourite local singing sensations.

Click here for the full schedule.

Two children doing arts and crafts.

Face Painting

📍The Forks Market - Second Floor Lounge

Kids of all ages can enjoy free face painting in the second-floor lounge from 9 AM – 12 PM.

A group of people doing yoga.

Fitness and Wellness Classes

📍The Forks Market - Second Floor Event Space

Adrienne Shum and a team of instructors will lead free yoga, fitness, and Pilates sessions this New Year’s Day. Reserve your spot here.

Click here for the full schedule and class descriptions.

Two people posing in front of a photo booth.

Photobooth

📍The Forks Market - Entryway

Capture the first day of 2026 with complimentary Photobooth prints by LightBooth.

A group of people skating under the canopy.

Skating Lessons

📍The Canopy

Learn the basics with guided skating lessons from 10 AM - 3 PM. All ages and skill levels are encouraged to join, with equipment available to rent.

A family walking into the Agowiidiwinan Centre.

Family Activities

📍Agowiidiwinan Centre

The Treaty Relations Commission of Manitoba invites families to enjoy activities and storytelling sessions. Free hot chocolate and Bannock will be available throughout the day.

Click here for more information.

Two men holding up a neon oyster sign.

Raw Oyster Bar

📍Fireside Lounge

Enjoy fresh, shucked-to-order oysters by Raw Oyster Bar in the Fireside Lounge. This kicks off The Forks’ Oyster Nights Under Patio Lights, running every Thursday from 5 PM to 8 PM.

Click here for more information.

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Located at the junction of the Red and Assiniboine rivers, The Forks (also known as Nestawaya in Cree) has been a meeting place for over 6,000 years – located on the original lands of the Anishinaabe, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota and Lakota peoples and resides in the National Homeland of the Red River Métis. This place also has deep ties with Dene and Inuit peoples, operates with water from Shoal Lake 40 First Nation, and has welcomed people from all walks of life to trade, visit, and build community. In this spirit, all staff and administration here respect the Treaties that were made on these territories, acknowledge the harms and mistakes of the past, and dedicate ourselves to move forward in partnership with Indigenous communities in a spirit of reconciliation and collaboration.

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