Regina's friendly local roundup | Wednesday, April 8, 2026

Happy Wednesday, Regina! 👋

A late-season Alberta clipper is sweeping through this morning, so give yourself a bit of extra time if you're heading out and check Highway Hotline before any highway travel. The good news is it clears quickly: Thursday is sunny and 6°C, and Friday climbs to 10°C. Spring is close.

A quick heads-up: Regina Transit fares go up today, April 8, with cash fares moving to $3.50 and monthly adult passes to $97. If you missed the details a couple weeks back, check here for the full updated fare schedule.

Now for the good stuff. The Regina Pat Canadians are heading back to nationals. The University of Regina just shipped a piece of made-in-Saskatchewan climate technology all the way to Thailand. The Riders are bringing a preseason game to Saskatoon for the first time in three decades. There is genuinely a lot to celebrate this Wednesday morning.

In today's edition:

🏒 Pat Canadians punch their ticket back to the Telus Cup nationals

🔬 University of Regina ships carbon capture technology to Thailand

🏗️ Regina is processing building permits faster than almost anywhere in Canada

🏈 Riders ticket news: preseason game in Saskatoon for the first time in 30 years

🌾 Regina-based Protein Industries Canada announces major food innovation partnership

📋 Community briefs: 11th Ave final phase, federal infrastructure funding, AGR Members' Show, and TEDxRegina, Street Sweeping underway

📅 Your events guide: April 8-10

🏒 SPORTS

Pat Canadians Are Heading Back to the Telus Cup to Defend Their Title

The Regina Pat Canadians are returning to the Telus Cup national championship after a dominant 5-1 win over the Moose Jaw WINMAR Warriors in the Western Regional final on Sunday at the Co-operators Centre. Maddox Schultz scored twice and Adam Muntain made 29 saves to send the defending national champions back to nationals. Schultz, just 16 years old, set the tone instantly, burying a breakaway just 18 seconds into the game to swing momentum firmly in Regina's favour.

The Pat Canadians went 2-1 in round-robin play before taking care of business when it counted most. The team now has a couple of weeks off before heading to Peterborough, Ontario for the Telus Cup national tournament, with action running from April 20 to 26. Go get it, Regina.

🔬 INNOVATION

Made in Regina: The University of Regina Is Shipping Carbon Capture Technology to Thailand

Here is a story worth pausing on. Under a decarbonization of cement and concrete initiative in Thailand funded by Environment and Climate Change Canada, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization commissioned researchers at the University of Regina's Clean Energy Technologies Research Institute to design and build a carbon capture pilot unit. The unit is being prepared for shipment to Thailand in early April, where it will be used to demonstrate carbon capture, utilization, and storage technology in real-world conditions and help support emissions reduction efforts in Thailand's cement sector, which is working toward net zero emissions by 2050.

Dr. Hussameldin Ibrahim, director of CETRI, noted that the project demonstrates how research at the University of Regina is delivering real-world climate solutions with global impact. University of Regina President Dr. Jeff Keshen added that it highlights the university's expertise in developing practical, exportable clean energy solutions that benefit not only Saskatchewan but the world.

🏗️ CITY

Regina Processes Building Permits Faster Than Almost Any City in Canada

Good news for anyone planning a deck, a basement reno, or a major development this spring. According to the City of Regina, 2,577 permits were approved in 2024, climbing to 2,820 in 2025. In the first three months of 2026 alone, 506 permits have already been issued. What makes Regina stand out is how fast those approvals move. Manager of Partnerships and Permit Services Jonathan Wiens said Regina has some of the fastest review turnaround times in the country, with residential permits often reviewed in as little as 10 days and commercial permits in up to 20 days depending on complexity.

About 94 per cent of applications are now submitted digitally, allowing builders and homeowners to track progress without visiting City Hall. The incentives are real: there is a provincial incentive for secondary suites that can return up to 35 per cent of the project cost, up to $35,000. If you have been sitting on a home improvement project, spring is the time to get started.

🏈 RIDERS

Green and White in Saskatoon: Riders Preseason Tickets Now on Sale

Riders fans in Saskatoon, this one is for you. On Saturday, May 23, the Saskatchewan Roughriders will host the Winnipeg Blue Bombers at Griffiths Stadium at the University of Saskatchewan, marking the first preseason CFL game in Saskatoon in more than 30 years. Tickets went on sale to the general public Tuesday morning at Riderville.com.

With a smaller capacity than a typical CFL venue, this game offers a different kind of experience: tighter sightlines, a louder bowl, and a game-day atmosphere that puts fans closer to the action. For those counting down to the Riders' regular season opener on June 13 against the B.C. Lions in Regina, this is a perfect early taste of what promises to be an exciting year defending the 2025 Grey Cup title. Kickoff is set for 5:00 PM.

🌾 BUSINESS & INNOVATION

Regina-Based Protein Industries Canada Partners with AGT Foods on Next-Generation Plant Protein Products

Regina's Protein Industries Canada has announced a new partnership with AGT Foods and Sweet Nutrition aimed at improving pulse-based ingredients and food products. The collaboration brings together two major players in Saskatchewan's agricultural and food innovation ecosystem, with a shared focus on developing plant-protein products that can reach global markets. The partnership is part of Protein Industries Canada's ongoing work to position Saskatchewan as a world leader in pulse-crop processing and plant-based food development.

Saskatchewan pulses, including lentils and peas, are among the most exported crops on the planet. This kind of research and industry collaboration is exactly what helps keep value-added processing happening here at home rather than elsewhere. It is quiet, important work, and Regina is at the centre of it.

🏗️ 11th Avenue Revitalization Enters Its Fourth and Final Year

Construction on the 11th Avenue Revitalization Project officially resumed April 6, marking the beginning of the final phase of a multi-year downtown upgrade. When complete, the stretch will feature wider pedestrian walkways, improved lighting, and new trees designed to make downtown Regina more walkable and welcoming. Local business owners along the corridor have expressed optimism heading into the final push. If you're heading downtown, expect some detours and consider it a good excuse to support the businesses on and around the block. We’ll all be glad when this project is completed and normal downtown traffic resumes!

💧 Federal Funding Coming to Regina for Major Wastewater Upgrade

The federal government announced on April 7 a significant infrastructure investment through the Build Communities Strong Fund, with Regina's South Trunk Wastewater Upgrade among the highlighted local projects. The upgrade is designed to modernize the city's water systems and increase the city's long-term capacity to support housing growth. For a city that issued more than 500 building permits in the first quarter of 2026 alone, having the underlying infrastructure to match that pace matters.

🖼️ Art Gallery of Regina Members' Show and Sale Is On Now

The Art Gallery of Regina's annual Members' Show and Sale is underway at the Neil Balkwill Civic Arts Centre, and it is one of the best arts events on the Regina spring calendar. More than 100 local artists fill the main gallery with upwards of 400 works spanning ceramics, textiles, sculpture, painting, and more, all available for purchase. Artists keep 70 per cent of every sale, making every piece you take home a direct investment in Regina's creative community. Admission is always free. If you have been meaning to find something original for your walls, this is the place.

More info here : Art Gallery of Regina

💡 TEDxRegina Is Coming This Spring — And the Lineup Looks Exceptional

Mark your calendar for May 29. TEDxRegina 2026 is set for Darke Hall, featuring nine Saskatchewan-connected speakers on a theme called Once Upon Our Future, covering everything from artificial intelligence and food security to space exploration and community leadership. Organizer Moses Anjorin described the event as a moment when Regina feels like it is at the tipping point of something to come. Past TEDxRegina talks have sparked new businesses, partnerships, and community projects long after the event ended. Tickets are available now at tedxregina.ca.

🧹 Spring Street Sweeping Is Underway — Here's How to Stay Ahead of It

Spring cleaning has arrived on Regina's roads. Street sweeping is currently underway across the city, with a second phase targeting residential streets beginning in late April. When crews reach your street, vehicles left in designated no-parking zones can be ticketed $120 and towed. The easiest way to stay ahead of it: download the free Sweep&Plow app to track exactly when sweeping is scheduled for your area. A small thing that can save you a headache.

April 8-10, 2026

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8

🦖 Scotty's Annual Dino Egg Hunt | April 8 - 10 | Royal Saskatchewan Museum, 2445 Albert Street 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM | Admission by donation A perfect spring break activity for the whole family. Search the museum galleries for hidden dinosaur eggs, crack the riddle, and enter to win a dino-themed prize basket. Details

📚 Storytime & Kids Activities | Regina Public Library branches | All day | Free Drop-in story sessions, crafts, and early learning programs running at library branches throughout spring break. Check your nearest branch for times. Details

🍽️ Wine & Dine Regina | April 8-10 | Saskatchewan Polytechnic, 4635 Wascana Parkway April 8 to 10 | Ticketed | A student-led fine dining experience with curated menus prepared by culinary students. One of the more unique and underrated evenings out in the city. Details

🎭 Ridge | Darke Hall, 2255 College Avenue 7:30 PM | $30 to $50 | Youth 20 and under $10 Through storytelling and live music, The Fugitives examine the Battle of Vimy Ridge and its lasting place in Canadian identity. JUNO-nominated music, vivid performances, and a deeply personal piece of Canadian storytelling. Runs April 8 and 9. Tickets and info

📺 The Price Is Right Live! | Conexus Arts Centre, 200 Lakeshore Drive 7:30 PM | $95 to $280 "Come on down!" The legendary TV game show comes to life on stage, with randomly selected audience members playing Plinko, the Big Wheel, and more. Tickets and info

🎸 Wheatus | Casino Regina Show Lounge, 1880 Saskatchewan Drive 8:00 PM | $29.50 to $35.00 The band behind the multi-platinum hit "Teenage Dirtbag" plays live in Regina. A fun mid-week night of early-2000s nostalgia you didn't know you needed. Tickets and info

🎸 Harv & the Accomplices | Bushwakker Brewpub, 2206 Dewdney Avenue 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM | Free Wednesday Folk Night at the Bushwakker brings back this popular Regina family band for a warm set of folk rock. Great pub, great pints, great way to spend a Wednesday evening. Details

🎨 MacKenzie Art Gallery | T.C. Douglas Building 11:00 AM to 5:30 PM | Free admission | Plan your visit

🔬 Saskatchewan Science Centre | 2903 Powerhouse Drive Open daily | 185+ hands-on exhibits | Visit info

🚔 RCMP Heritage Centre | 5907 Dewdney Avenue Regular hours | Visit info

THURSDAY, APRIL 9

🦖 Spring Break Programming | Royal Saskatchewan Museum, 2445 Albert Street 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM | Admission by donation | Details

📚 Storytime & Kids Activities | Regina Public Library branches All day | Free | Details

🍽️ Wine & Dine Regina | Saskatchewan Polytechnic Ticketed | Details

🎭 Ridge | Darke Hall, 2255 College Avenue 7:30 PM | $30 to $50 | Youth 20 and under $10 Second and final night of The Fugitives' powerful storytelling performance about the Battle of Vimy Ridge. Supported by Veterans Affairs Canada. Tickets and info

🎤 Maldita & Guests | The Exchange, 2431 8th Avenue 8:00 PM | ~$48 Filipino pop sensation Maldita brings their catchy hits and high-energy performance to Regina for an intimate, vibrant show at one of the city's favourite alternative venues. Tickets and info

💬 No Level Fields: A Lecture by Bill | The Artesian on 13th, 2627 13th Avenue 8:00 PM A thought-provoking evening of storytelling and ideas at one of Regina's most beloved independent venues. Details

⚽ WCP Cup Adult Tournament | AffinityPlex, REAL District, 1700 Elphinstone Street April 9 to 12 | Free for spectators The Mini World Cup returns. Watch adult soccer teams from across the region compete for the championship in this high-energy multi-day tournament. Details

🎨 MacKenzie Art Gallery | 11:00 AM to 5:30 PM | Free admission | Plan your visit

🔬 Saskatchewan Science Centre | Open daily | Visit info

FRIDAY, APRIL 10

📚 Storytime & Kids Activities | Regina Public Library branches | All day | Free | Details

🍽️ Wine & Dine Regina | Saskatchewan Polytechnic Ticketed | Final night | Details

💃 Dirty Dancing in Concert | Conexus Arts Centre, 200 Lakeshore Drive 7:30 PM | $71.67 to $119.87 The 1987 classic plays on a full cinema screen while a live band and singers perform the iconic soundtrack in real time. A unique film-to-concert experience built for nostalgia and romance. Tickets and info

🎷 Home Brewed featuring Steve Kaldestad | Darke Hall, 2255 College Avenue 7:30 PM | $21.09 to $48.84 The Regina Jazz Orchestra welcomes back Regina ex-pat and Vancouver-based tenor saxophonist Steve Kaldestad for a masterclass in jazz performance in one of the city's most beautiful venues. Tickets and info

🎩 Reveen: The Legend Continues | Casino Regina Show Lounge, 1880 Saskatchewan Drive 8:00 PM | Runs April 10 and 11 The legendary hypnotist and illusionist is back. Whether you're a believer or a skeptic, it is an unforgettable night either way. Tickets and info

🎸 Skrizzly Adams | The Cure Kitchen + Bar, 3806 Albert Street 9:30 PM | $20 advance on Eventbrite | 19+ Heartland rock with Josh McDonald opening the night. Grab your advance tickets — this one is worth it. Tickets

♿ Saskatchewan Wheelchair Rugby Festival | Avana Centre April 10 to 12 | Free for spectators One of the most exciting adaptive sports events of the spring. Come out and cheer on some incredible athletes competing at a high level. Details

🏒 Hockey Sask U13 Prospects Tournament & Sask First Male U18 Tournament | Co-operators Centre, 1700 Elphinstone Street April 10 to 12 | Tournament pass varies Two provincial hockey tournaments running simultaneously — some of the best young talent in Saskatchewan on the ice this weekend.

Sask First U13 | Sask First U18

🎬 RPL Film Theatre | Central Library, 2311 12th Avenue 7:00 PM | Paid admission New titles open each Friday at Regina's best independent cinema. Film schedule

🎨 MacKenzie Art Gallery | 11:00 AM to 5:30 PM | Free admission | Plan your visit

🔬 Saskatchewan Science Centre | Open daily | Visit info

The Pat Canadians are heading back to the Telus Cup to defend their title. What is your read on their chances?

🏆 Back-to-back, no question - this team is built for it

🤞 Cautiously optimistic - I believe in them

🍿 I'll watch every game and stress-eat the whole time

🏒 Wait, we have a team called the Pat Canadians?

Hit reply to let us know, or find us on Facebook and Instagram @QueenCityDigest

Thanks for reading Queen City Digest. Spring is almost here, the Pat Canadians are heading to nationals, and a little made-in-Regina technology is about to travel halfway around the world. There is a lot to be proud of this week. Stay warm on that morning commute, and enjoy a great week ahead.

Next edition: Friday, April 10.

-The QCD Team