If you're searching for an excuse to venture out and experience the finest of what Winnipeg has to showcase, May is providing plenty of opportunities in a significant manner. From food truck showdowns to a one-of-a-kind outdoor dining experience and a vibrant celebration of Asian culture, there’s no shortage of ways to kick off the season.
Whether you’re a foodie, a festival lover, or just ready to soak up some sunshine and good vibes, there’s something for everyone happening around the city this month — and I’ve rounded up a few can’t-miss events to add to your calendar.
Manitoba Food Truck Battles | May 24-25 | Assiniboia Downs
If you're into fantastic cuisine, lively music, and good-natured rivalry, head over to Assiniboia Downs on May 24 and 25. The Manitoba Food Truck Battles are coming with two full days of continuous deliciousness, showcasing some of Winnipeg’s best food trucks competing for the crown as the Food Truck Champion.
For only $7 per person (children five and younger get in for free), you can sample a fantastic selection of local delights, cast your votes for the favorites, and immerse yourself in the festive vibe with live music, children’s activities, and even a temporary tattoo booth if you're daring enough. Whether rainy or sunny, this event welcomes families and caters to true gastronomes—get set for a mouthwatering weekend!
The excitement begins on Saturday, May 24 from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., followed by another session on Sunday, May 25 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Invite your pals, satisfy your hunger, and prepare for an unforgettable weekend centered around cuisine, camaraderie, and crafting some truly tasty recollections.
Table for 1200 | May 24 | Hidden Venue
If you're seeking an extraordinary dining adventure, securing a spot at Table for 1200 on May 24 will be your key to experiencing something truly special. Organized by Storefront Manitoba as part of their yearly fundraising initiative, this amazing temporary installation guarantees an unmissable evening—taking place at a secret outdoor venue disclosed only on the day of the event.
Initially sparked by Table for 12—a global initiative featuring meals in locations celebrated for their strong design scenes—the event found local roots through Winnipeg-based firm 5468796 Architecture. They earned acclaim when awarded the distinguished Prix de Rome prize for their architectural contributions. To conclude this sequence, they collaborated with Storefront Manitoba to initiate the inaugural Table for 1200 back in 2014; ever since, these events have been held at various spots including Esplanade Riel and Assiniboine Park. The latest iteration of this grand dinner table gathering honors the significance of architecture, city planning, and communal ethos. Attendees will be clad predominantly in monochrome outfits enlivened by splashes of pink, which happen to be the signature hues of Storefront.
The tickets encompass more than just your seating arrangement; they also ensure that a meal is provided to individuals within Winnipeg’s underprivileged neighborhoods via Ben Kramer’s Made with Love initiative. Similar to all genuine Manitoban gatherings, this event goes ahead regardless of the weather conditions—so make sure you're dressed appropriately, carry your spirit of exploration, and prepare for an unforgettable night brimming with delicious cuisine, engaging performances, and civic pride. You can purchase these tickets online. storefrontmb.ca .
Taste of Asia | May 24-25 | Memorial Park and Boulevard
This Victoria Day long weekend, Memorial Park and Boulevard will be filled with the vibrant sights, sounds, and tastes of Asia. Taste of Asia Is Manitoba’s initial and largest open-air Asian festival, uniting the community to revel in the vibrant cultures, customs, and culinary delights of Asia.
Taking place from May 24 to 25, this vibrant two-day event runs daily from noon until 9 p.m., brimming with thrilling activities. Enjoy an array of boldly flavored dishes at the food trucks and stalls, browse through handcrafted goods presented by artisans, delve into cultural exhibits, and experience art installations along with lively Asian pop contests. The festival features live cultural shows, competitive eating events, and many additional attractions for you to enjoy over the course of the weekend.
Entry is complimentary—simply come with your hunger, passion for delicious cuisine, and festive enthusiasm.
Recipe of the week: Greek-inspired baked chicken dish on a sheet pan recipe
Given all the activities going on around town this month, simple dinner ideas are key. This week’s featured recipe is something I love: an effortless one-skillet dish—Greek-style baked chicken on a sheet pan.
This dish features tender marinated chicken alongside roasted veggies, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta. It’s fast enough for hectic weeknights yet bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Ideal for preparing meals ahead or serving a crowd!
Ingredients
For the marinade
1/2 cup of pure virgin olive oil
1 lemon juiced (approximately 4 tablespoons)
6 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon of smooth Dijon mustard, without seeds
1 teaspoon kosher salt
For the sheet pan
4 chicken breasts
1 medium zucchini, cut lengthwise into halves and then sliced
1 red onion cut into thick slices
1 pint cherry tomatoes
1/2 cup of pitted Kalamata olives
Instructions
- Preheat and make the marinade: Heat up your oven to 425°F. In a little mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme leaves, smoked paprika, Dijon mustard, salt crystals, and black pepper using a whisk.
- Pound the chicken: Dry the chicken breasts thoroughly. Position them between two layers of plastic wrap on a cutting board and flatten until they reach a consistent thickness of ¼ to ½ inch.
- Marinate the chicken: Put the chicken in a bowl and cover with two-thirds of the marinade. Mix well to ensure even coating, then let it sit and marinate for at least 15 minutes as you prepare the veggies.
- Prepare the vegetables: Distribute the zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes across a baking tray. Pour the leftover marinade over them and mix well to ensure they're evenly coated.
- Bake: Place the marinated chicken on the baking tray among the vegetables. Cook for 25 minutes.
- Add olives and feta: Take the dish out of the oven, scatter the Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese on top, and put it back into the oven to cook for an additional 5–10 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the veggies are soft. Enjoy right away. This goes wonderfully with a serving of brown rice underneath.
— Cassandra Morris, a food blogger and recipe creator cookingwithcassandra.com , She contributes as a guest writer for the Winnipeg Sun where she showcases top-notch recipes, crucial kitchen hacks, and highlights local eateries and special culinary experiences worth trying.
