About Winnipeg

Winnipeg is the capital and largest city of Manitoba, Canada, with more than 60% of Manitoba's population. It is located near the longitudinal centre of North America. Winnipeg’s multicultural birthplace is marked at the junction of the Red and the Assiniboine Rivers, now a green urban oasis known as The Forks.

The name "Winnipeg" comes from the Cree for "muddy waters". The Winnipeg area was a trading centre for Aboriginal peoples prior to the arrival of Europeans. The first fort was built there in 1738 by French traders.[3] A settlement was later founded by the Selkirk settlers in 1812, the nucleus of which was incorporated as the City of Winnipeg in 1873. During the late 19th century and early 20th century, Winnipeg was one of the fastest growing cities in North America. The University of Manitoba, founded during this period, was the first university in Western Canada.

Winnipeg has a diversified economy, with sectors in finance, manufacturing, food and beverage production, culture, retail and tourism. Winnipeg is a major transportation hub, served by Richardson International Airport.

Recognized as the 2010 Culture Capital of Canada, Winnipeg is a mid-sized city of over 740,000 culturally diverse people, who bring a cosmopolitan, international flair to the city, as well as a warm welcoming spirit. The city’s diverse cultural make-up shines brightly through its globally inspired cuisine, wide array of world-class arts, culture and festivals, many one-of-a-kind shops and trendy boutiques, and widespread opportunity to experience the wonders of nature and breathtaking prairie scenery throughout the seasons. Winnipeg's cultural organizations and festivals include the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Manitoba Opera, Le Cercle Molière, Festival du Voyageur and Folklorama. Professional sports organizations based in the city include the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, the Winnipeg Goldeyes, and the NHL Winnipeg Jets.