Science, crafts, music – and even surfing – at 42nd Winnipeg Kidsfest

One of the most popular children’s entertainers in Canada made the 42nd annual Winnipeg International Children’s Festival an event to remember.

Winnipeg’s own Fred Penner was scheduled to perform three times at this year’s Kidsfest.

Hundreds of families headed to The Forks on each of the festival’s first three days.

There were many children’s and family-friendly activities, such as sports, puzzles, science demos, a surf simulator, crafts, an instrument petting zoo, and more.

“2024 marks the third iteration of our new format we debuted in 2022,” said Neal Rempel, the festival’s executive producer.

On Saturday, the sun was out in full force, making it a perfect day for people of all ages to head down to rediscover their inner child. Kidsfest ends Sunday.

“For over four decades, Kidsfest has been an exciting tradition for families in our province,” Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew said in the festival’s program. “This is an opportunity for children of all ages to experience engaging performances, explore their creativity, and make memories with their family.”