Updated August 28, 2026
Wits End Wednesdays
The 2026 Backyard Season
Sat, Aug 29th: Scott Cook - 1:30pm
When we heard that our old musical buddy Scott Cook was passing through town on his way elsewhere, we just couldn't NOT have him play here. A troubadour in the truest sense of the word, Scott brings songs of the human condition, including some of the best protest songs around. Scott was part of our Nolan-Cook-Nolan aka Ramblers Choir project a couple of years ago.
Gates 1:30 | Music 2:00 | $25 by etransfer to ian.mattey@gmail.com to reserve your spots
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Wed, Sep 2nd: Romi Mayes Duo
THIS SHOW MOVED TO THE PARK THEATRE!
Romi returns to Wits End for the first time since 2020 - where does time go?! There's grit and gravel in Romi's voice and songs - not for the faint of heart for sure. Grant Siemens will be slinging guitar, so you know just how much of a treat you're in for! a Special Guest will open.
Gates 7:00 | Music 7:30 | $25 by etransfer to ian.mattey@gmail.com to reserve your spots
Wed, Sep 9th: Benj Rowland
The enigmatic, quirky and downright lovable Benj Rowland returns to the backyard for the third year in a row, which is just fine by us as he is one of our favourites and we know he's become one of yours too! We love the contemplative, yet wryly humorous songs and the fact that Benj plays several instruments at the same time - truly a one man band. Oh, and Hurdy Gurdy!!!
Gates 7:00 | Music 7:30 | $25 by etransfer to ian.mattey@gmail.com to reserve your spots
presents:
Zachary Lucky
Monday, Dec 7th
Zachary Lucky may well be Canada's hardest touring musician - a true road dog bringing his passion for songs and stories carried along on his deep voice that is just the right combination of smooth and gravel.
A native of Saskatchewan, his music has won critical acclaim in Canada and Europe and is as genuine as it comes!
Co-presented by Avalon Arts, Wits End, and Sidestage
at Sidestage, 700 Osborne Street, Winnipeg
Doors 7:00pm | Music 8:00pm | Seated Show | $25 +taxes & fees
A Not So Christmas-y Christmas Show
Wednesday, Dec 17th
More an idea than a reality at this point but we're giving you a heads up so you can save the date in your calendars. Here's what we can tell you:
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The show will be at the Park Theatre
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The theme of the show will celebrate family, friends, peace, and community
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It will be fully seated (max 250)
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Cara Luft will be central to the night but there will be others!
Doors 7:00pm | Music 8:00pm | Seated Show | Details to Follow
also recommends:
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Sep 13 | WECC: Carsie Blanton w/The Burning Hell
Sep 13 | WECC: Carsie Blanton w/The Burning Hell. Looking for a few 'Hell, Yeahs!'? this woman tells it like it is.
Sep 17 | Sidestage: David Alpert EP Release w/Brad Micholson opening. These two opened a couple of our backyard shows
Sep 18 | Sidestage: Sean Burns & Lost Country - Album Release. Good 'Ol Fashioned Country.
Sep 21 | Avalon Arts*: J. Plank (just a few spots left)
Sep 24 | Burton Cummings: Lyle Lovett & The Small Large Band
Oct 1 | Park Theatre: Women Songwriter Extravaganza - great line up! Presented by Sure Shot Bookings
Oct 2 | Avalon Arts*: Jake Lauzon w/ Alanna Jenish & Joanna Bronson
Oct 22 | Park Theatre: East Pointers - if you love East Coast sound! Presented by the Winnipeg Folk Festival.
Nov 21 | Burton Cummings: Bros. Landreth - local legends and all-around benefactors of the music community
Dec 17 | Park Theatre: Jacob Brodovsky - Album Release. Presented by Real Love Winnipeg
*Avalon Arts is a house concert series. The hosts rely on their email list and word of mouth to promote their shows, so if you want to connect with them, connect with us and we'll put you in touch.