Members of the Canadian Armed Forces descended from a helicopter on Sunday afternoon at The Forks, carrying the prestigious Grey Cup. This event signaled the start of Grey Cup week, known as the CFL’s premier annual celebration, leading up to the championship game on November 16 at Princess Auto Stadium in Winnipeg.
Kristin Orvis, who attended the event and will be at the Grey Cup game, described the week as a massive celebration and a major party. The upcoming game at Princess Auto Stadium is already sold out, with thousands of fans expected to attend. In addition to the game, various events are taking place in downtown Winnipeg as part of the Grey Cup Festival, offering both free and ticketed activities.
Anticipated economic impacts from the festivities are significant, with an estimated boost of over $90 million in economic activities, including $8.2 million in provincial tax revenues, according to a provincial spokesperson. Nellie Kennedy, the province’s Minister of Sport, Culture, Heritage, and Tourism, emphasized the event’s role as a significant economic driver, boosting local businesses and showcasing Manitoba on a national scale.
Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham echoed these sentiments, highlighting the potential for businesses to thrive during the Grey Cup week. Local establishments, like Devil May Care on Fort Street, are gearing up to capitalize on the influx of visitors to downtown Winnipeg, hoping to showcase their offerings to a broader audience. The brewery’s general manager, Colin Koop, expressed excitement about the opportunity to attract new patrons and promote their unique products during the festivities.
With a surge of visitors expected in Winnipeg from across Canada, businesses like Devil May Care are optimistic about the economic benefits. Manitoba Hotel Association president and CEO Michael Juce noted that while there is still available hotel space in the city, football fans are advised to secure accommodations promptly. Despite the absence of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers from this year’s championship game, fans are enthusiastic about participating in the festivities and celebrating the CFL’s pinnacle event.