👑 RSO farewell, Royal Road Race, Incredibly Hip

Regina's friendly local roundup | Friday, May 8, 2026

Happy Friday, Regina! 👋

Spring has officially arrived in the Queen City, and this weekend is bringing it in style. We are looking at 18°C today with a slight chance of showers, then clearing beautifully for Mother's Day weekend: 14°C and sunny Saturday, and a lovely 19°C on Sunday. After the long winter, this is exactly what we ordered.

There is a lot happening this weekend, and a lot to celebrate. City council made one of the most significant decisions about Regina's entertainment future in a generation on Wednesday night. The Roughriders are officially back on the field. And it is Mother's Day weekend, which means the Royal Road Race, the outdoor farmers' market returning to Pat Fiacco Plaza, a Tragically Hip tribute at Casino Regina, a Star Wars double feature at RPL, the RSO's farewell concert for their beloved conductor, and a city that is very much in the mood to celebrate the people who matter most. The events section this week is the biggest we have ever published. There is something for everyone.

Let's get into it.

In today's edition:

🏟️ Brandt Group gets the keys to REAL District in a transformational 8-3 vote
🏈 Riders training camp is underway as the Grey Cup champions begin their title defence
🌸 World Ovarian Cancer Day is today, and Saskatchewan is stepping up its investment
🌎 Regina hosted North American leaders this week for a major trade conference at Hotel Saskatchewan
❤️ A new Ronald McDonald House is coming to Regina, and your McHappy Day purchase helped make it happen
📅 Your biggest-ever QCD events guide: The Incredibly Hip, RSO farewell, Royal Road Race, outdoor farmers' market kickoff, Star Wars at RPL, CRAWL-A-PALOOZA, and much more across three days of Mother's Day weekend.

🏟️ CITY & DEVELOPMENT

Brandt Group Approved to Buy Brandt Centre, Queensbury Centre and More in Historic REAL District Vote

Regina city council voted 8-3 on Wednesday night to approve the sale of nine major REAL District assets to Brandt Properties, owned by the Semple family. The deal sees Brandt pay a combined $6.4 million for properties including the Brandt Centre, Queensbury Centre, Canada Centre Building, and the Ag-EX Building. Brandt also takes on responsibility for $79 million in capital repair liabilities for the buildings, as well as the approximately 700 REAL District employees, whose existing collective agreements will continue. If finalized as proposed, the city will pay Brandt $9 million in operating costs over the first two years, and Brandt commits to investing at least $15 million in the buildings during that period.

🏈 RIDERS

The Green and White Are Back on the Field: Roughriders Begin 2026 Training Camp

The Saskatchewan Roughriders opened rookie minicamp in Saskatoon on Wednesday as the defending Grey Cup champions took their first on-field steps of the 2026 CFL season. Main training camp opens Sunday with veterans reporting, followed by a preseason game in Calgary on May 18 and another against Winnipeg at Mosaic Stadium on May 23. Camp wraps with a week in Regina from May 25 to 29, with the regular season opener set for June 13 against the B.C. Lions at Mosaic Stadium.

All eyes are on quarterback Trevor Harris as he looks to lead the Riders to their first-ever title repeat, with much of the core that delivered the 2025 Grey Cup championship returning for another run. The Riders also added four Saskatchewan-born players to camp, including University of Saskatchewan quarterback Jake Farrell through the CFL QB Internship Program. Farrell led the Huskies to a 3-0 record as a starter in 2025, throwing for 647 yards and eight touchdowns before a memorable Hardy Cup performance. Green and white is about to be everywhere. It is going to be a great summer.

🌸 HEALTH

Today Is World Ovarian Cancer Day, and Saskatchewan Has Invested $2 Million in the Fight

Friday, May 8 is World Ovarian Cancer Day, and it is a fitting moment to highlight Saskatchewan's commitment to the cause. Saskatchewan has contributed $2 million to Ovarian Cancer Canada since 2020, supporting research and clinical trials that benefit patients by improving diagnosis, treatment options, outcomes and survival rates for women across the province. Those dollars are funding real progress for the roughly 3,100 Canadians diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year, a disease that remains the most deadly gynecological cancer in the country.

Ovarian cancer is often called a silent disease because symptoms are easy to overlook in the early stages. Early detection dramatically improves outcomes, and the research funded through initiatives like this one is narrowing the gap. If you or someone you love has concerns, a conversation with your doctor is always worth having. Today is a good reminder to check in. For more information on ovarian cancer awareness and support resources in Saskatchewan, visit ovariancanada.org.

🌎 TRADE & COMMUNITY

150 North American Leaders Came to Hotel Saskatchewan This Week. Here's Why That Matters.

Regina spent the first week of May hosting some of North America's most senior trade and business leaders. International leaders from Mexico, Canada and the United States gathered at Hotel Saskatchewan on May 6, 2026, to discuss energy, food and manufacturing security at the NASCO Conference, standing for North American Strategy for Competitiveness. Premier Scott Moe delivered the keynote address at the annual continental reunion, which drew nearly 150 senior political and business leaders to discuss priorities in agriculture, mining, food and energy security.

In 2025, the United States and Mexico accounted for 56.6 per cent of Saskatchewan's total exports, with a combined value of $24.6 billion. Saskatchewan MLA Travis Keisig, the province's NASCO representative, called it an opportunity to highlight the province's strengths in natural resources, critical minerals, energy, and agriculture. Regina hosting this reunion is a meaningful signal: this city and this province are very much at the table in conversations shaping the future of North American trade.

❤️ COMMUNITY

A New Ronald McDonald House Is Coming to Regina, and McHappy Day Helps Make It Happen

Wednesday, May 6 was McHappy Day across Canada, and for Saskatchewan families, this year's fundraiser carried extra significance. A brand new Ronald McDonald House is currently under construction in Regina, adding to the existing Saskatoon location and the Family Room in Prince Albert. Ronald McDonald Houses provide accommodation, meals, and wellness support so families can remain close to their children during extended medical stays, and a Regina location will be a real difference-maker for southern Saskatchewan families facing long journeys for a child's care.

This year marked the 32nd annual McHappy Day event for McDonald's Canada, with every food and beverage purchased on May 6 generating funds for Ronald McDonald House programs across the country. Over the past 32 McHappy Day events, more than $111 million has been raised to support over half a million Canadian families. If you stopped by McDonald's on Wednesday, thank you. If you missed it, you can still donate directly at ronaldmcdonaldhouse.ca

Mother's Day Weekend, May 8 to 10, 2026

FRIDAY, MAY 8

🎵 The Incredibly Hip | Casino Regina Show Lounge | 1880 Saskatchewan Drive | Doors 7:15 PM, Show 8:00 PM | Main Floor $35 / Balcony $33 + taxes
The Incredibly Hip has been one of Canada's most respected Tragically Hip tributes since 2014, and every show since Gord Downie's passing in 2017 has been a true celebration of his legacy. If the Hip means something to you, this is the Friday night you have been waiting for. Tickets →

🎭 Little Red Warrior & His Lawyer | Globe Theatre | 1801 Scarth Street | 7:30 PM | Paid admission | Written and directed by Governor General Award-winner Kevin Loring, this satirical farce blending Indigenous land politics, love, and sharp wit has been getting strong notices. The run continues through May 17. Tickets →

😂 Pass The Hat: Crowd Work Comedy | The Exchange | 2431 8th Avenue | Doors 7:30 PM, Show 8:00 PM | $10 advance / $15 door | Regina's beloved monthly stand-up institution goes full crowd-work tonight, meaning no setlists and no safety net. Local comedians riffing entirely off the audience makes for one of the most unpredictable and fun nights out in the city. All ages and licensed. Tickets →

🎸 CRAWL-A-PALOOZA | Multiple Venues | 8:00 PM onward | Check ahead for cover
Regina's favourite multi-venue music crawl takes over the city Friday night. Start with Tiny and Causeway at The Lancaster at 8:00 PM, move to Mr. Moya and Stoned Groove Boogie Band at The Cure Kitchen + Bar at 9:30 PM, then wrap the night with Black Thunder and Brass Camel at O'Hanlon's Irish Pub at 11:00 PM. A great way to explore the city's live music scene all in one night. Check each venue for admission details.

👗 Art of Connection Fashion Show | Conexus Arts Centre | 200 Lakeshore Drive | 6:30 PM | Check ahead for tickets | A fashion showcase event at one of Regina's premier performance spaces. Check ahead for ticket availability and details before heading out. Conexus Arts Centre →

🎬 RPL Film Theatre | Regina Public Library | 2311 12th Avenue | Paid admission
Two screenings tonight: Barefoot Gen at 4:30 PM and Chrissy at 7:00 PM. One of Regina's best independent cinema experiences, right in the heart of the city. Film schedule →

🏒 Hockey Saskatchewan Female Futures Tournament | Co-operators Centre | Runs May 8 to 10 | Saskatchewan's future female hockey stars take to the ice for a full weekend tournament at the Co-operators Centre. A great outing for families who love the game. Check the Hockey Saskatchewan schedule for game times. Details →

🖼️ Heartland Artists Guild Spring Show & Sale | Uplands Community Centre | 20 Weekes Crescent | Free admission | Browse original paintings, photography, resin art, and mixed media from local Saskatchewan artists. Running both Friday and Saturday, and a great place to find something meaningful for the mom in your life this weekend. Event info →

🏃 Regina Spring Classic | Canada Games Athletic Complex | 3025 McDonald Street | All day, May 8 and 9 | Check ahead | Meet info →

🌺 Regina Floral Conservatory | 1450B Fourth Avenue | 12:00 PM to 4:30 PM | Admission by donation | Opens at noon on Fridays. A warm, fragrant stop before heading into your evening, and a lovely early Mother's Day outing. Visit info →

🔬 Saskatchewan Science Centre | 2903 Powerhouse Drive | Spring hours | Paid admission | Visit info →

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

SATURDAY, MAY 9

🏃 Royal Road Race | RCMP Training Academy | 5907 Dewdney Avenue | Opening ceremonies 8:45 AM, races start 9:00 AM | Paid registration | Now in its 12th year, the Royal Road Race has donated over $301,000 to local charities since it began. The course runs entirely within the RCMP Academy grounds with 5K, 10K, 3K Family Run, and 1K Mini-Mountie options. All 5K and 10K finishers receive a Hillberg & Berk sparkle ball earring set as a Mother's Day tribute. A wonderful morning to get outside and be part of your community. Register →

🌾 Regina Farmers' Market Outdoor Season Kickoff | Pat Fiacco Plaza | Downtown Regina | 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM | Free
The outdoor market season is back, and there is no better way to start a Mother's Day Saturday morning than a stroll through downtown with fresh local produce, baked goods, coffee, and the warm buzz of the community returning to the plaza. Welcome back. Market info →

🐦 World Migratory Bird Day | Saskatchewan Science Centre / Wascana Centre | 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM | Free | One of the best free family events of the spring. Wascana is one of the finest urban birding spots in Canada, and this annual celebration brings guided activities, conservation learning, and special Wings Over Water 3D screenings to mark the return of migratory birds. Get outside and look up. Event info →

🛍️ Mother's Day Market | Bunge International Trade Centre, REAL District | 1700 Elphinstone Street | 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM | Free | Over 140 local vendors, food trucks, handmade gifts, coffee, and spring finds spread across the REAL District grounds. One of the best ways to spend a Mother's Day weekend morning in Regina. Runs both Saturday and Sunday. Event details →

💃 VIEW Dance | Bunge International Trade Centre, REAL District | 1700 Elphinstone Street | Runs May 7 to 10 | Check schedule for performance times
Regina's premier dance showcase event is running all weekend at the REAL District grounds alongside the Mother's Day Market. Check ahead for individual performance times and admission details. Details →

🏋️ SASKCLASSIC Bodybuilding Competition | Conexus Arts Centre, Convention Hall | 200 Lakeshore Drive | 11:00 AM | Check ahead for admission
Saskatchewan's top bodybuilding competitors take the stage at Conexus Arts Centre for a full day of competition. A great spectator event if you have never been to a bodybuilding show before. Event info →

🎬 RPL Film Theatre | Regina Public Library | 2311 12th Avenue | Paid admission
Two screenings today: Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace at 1:00 PM and Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith at 7:00 PM. May the Fourth was last week, but Regina is still celebrating on the big screen. Film schedule →

☕ Mother's Day Tea: A Ruby Jubilee | Momentum Cafe | 2:00 PM | Check ahead for tickets and reservation | A lovely afternoon tea put on in celebration of Mother's Day weekend. A warm, community-spirited way to spend a Saturday afternoon with someone special. Check ahead with Momentum Cafe directly for availability and details. New Dance Horizons

🖼️ Heartland Artists Guild Spring Show & Sale Day 2 | Uplands Community Centre | 20 Weekes Crescent | Free admission | Event info →

🏃 Regina Spring Classic Day 2 | Canada Games Athletic Complex | 3025 McDonald Street | All day | Meet info →

🏒 Hockey Saskatchewan Female Futures Tournament Day 2 | Co-operators Centre | Check game times | Details →

🎉 RLT Centennial Gala | Regina Performing Arts Centre | 1077 Angus Street | Doors 6:00 PM | Paid admission | Regina Little Theatre celebrates 100 years of community theatre with an evening of pageantry, performance, and nostalgia at the RPAC. A milestone evening for one of Regina's longest-standing artistic institutions, and a night that belongs on any theatre lover's calendar. Details →

🎭 Conservatory Musical Theatre Showcase | Darke Hall | 3435 Wascana Parkway | 6:30 PM | Check ahead for tickets | Local performing arts students take the stage at one of Regina's most beloved intimate venues for an evening of musical theatre. Also runs Sunday at 3:00 PM. Details →

😂 Yuk Yuk's Comedy: Lori Ferguson-Ford | Fibber MaGee's | 8:00 PM | Check ahead for tickets and cover | A proper Saturday night stand-up show from one of Canada's most established comedy brands. Lori Ferguson-Ford brings the laughs to Fibber MaGee's for an evening worth showing up early for. Check with Fibber MaGee's directly for ticket details.

🎵 Ka Lok: Album Release Show | The Exchange | 2431 8th Avenue | Doors 7:30 PM | $20 advance
Ka lok is the solo electronic project of Regina multi-instrumentalist Dalton Lam, and tonight he celebrates his debut album live on home turf with support from Dead Ex Girlfriends and Charlie Holmlund. All ages and licensed. Tickets →

🎭 Little Red Warrior & His Lawyer | Globe Theatre | 1801 Scarth Street | 7:30 PM | Paid admission | Tickets →

🎻 RSO Classics: Echoes of a Decade | Conexus Arts Centre | 200 Lakeshore Drive | Doors 6:30 PM, Show 7:30 PM | Paid admission | The final Classical concert with beloved RSO Music Director Gordon Gerrard marks the close of a remarkable chapter for the orchestra. The evening features internationally acclaimed Canadian violinist Timothy Chooi performing Barber's Violin Concerto, followed by Mahler's Symphony No. 1. A once-in-a-decade evening for anyone who loves live orchestral music in this city. Tickets →

SUNDAY, MAY 10 — Happy Mother's Day! 🌸

🍳 Mother's Day Brunch | Conexus Arts Centre, Convention Hall | 200 Lakeshore Drive | 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM | $54.88 adults / $32.93 children 10 and under / complimentary 3 and under (ticket required) | Executive Chef Leo and his culinary team have put together a proper spread: prime rib carving station, eggs Benedict, house smoked salmon on asparagus, chermoula roasted chicken, fresh pastries, and chocolate dipped strawberries from the Centre's own bakery. A full, festive way to celebrate the day. Tickets →

🛍️ Mother's Day Market Final Day | Bunge International Trade Centre, REAL District | 1700 Elphinstone Street | 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM | Free | The market wraps up Sunday with 140+ vendors and food trucks. Last chance to find that perfect gift. Event details →

💃 VIEW Dance Final Day | Bunge International Trade Centre, REAL District | Check schedule for times | The weekend-long dance showcase wraps up today alongside the Mother's Day Market. Check ahead for Sunday performance times. Details →

🏒 Hockey Saskatchewan Female Futures Tournament Final Day | Co-operators Centre | Check game times | Details →

🎭 Conservatory Musical Theatre Showcase | Darke Hall | 3435 Wascana Parkway | 3:00 PM | Check ahead for tickets | Details →

☕ Mother's Day High Tea | Cafe Francais | 3:30 PM | $63 per person + taxes | Reservation required | Cafe Francais' three-course dine-in high tea is one of the most elegant ways to treat someone this weekend: spinach and sun-dried tomato quiche, raspberry sorbet in a lemon cup, and a full high tea tier of French macarons, crème brûlée, frangipane tarts, and savory bites. Limited seating. Call 306-757-2233 or email [email protected] to reserve. Reserve →

🎵 The Legendary Patsy Cline Show | Casino Regina Show Lounge | 1880 Saskatchewan Drive | 7:30 PM | Paid admission | Amberley Beatty brings Patsy Cline to life in full: the western style, the evening gown, the red lipstick, and the voice. A stunning tribute show to close out Mother's Day evening in style. Tickets →

🎬 RPL Film Theatre | Regina Public Library | 2311 12th Avenue | Afternoon matinee | Paid admission | Film schedule →

🔬 Saskatchewan Science Centre | 2903 Powerhouse Drive | Spring hours | Paid admission | Visit info →

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

It is Mother's Day weekend and Regina is absolutely stacked. What is the plan?

🏃 Running the Royal Road Race Saturday morning
🎻 Dressing up for RSO's farewell concert with Conductor Gerrard
🌾 Hitting the outdoor farmers' market for the first time this season
🎸 Starting with the Hip on Friday and not stopping until Sunday

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

What a week it has been for this city. The REAL District deal, Riders camp, a world-class RSO send-off, the outdoor farmers' market making its return downtown, and the most packed Mother's Day weekend we can remember. Celebrate the moms in your life, get outside in the sunshine, and enjoy everything the Queen City has to offer this weekend :)

Next edition: Monday, May 11.

-QCD