Residents in Neepawa, Manitoba, have the opportunity to join a community discussion about Canadian literature today, April 13, 2026, as ArtsForward hosts a special event tied to the national Canada Reads competition.
The event, which begins at 7:00 PM at 293 Mountain Avenue, invites local book lovers to gather and share their thoughts on Canadian titles. This gathering coincides with the start of the 25th annual Canada Reads debates, which run from April 13 through April 16, 2026.
The 2026 edition of the national competition features host Ali Hassan and five celebrity champions. This year’s theme, one book to build bridges, focuses on selecting literature that helps connect different perspectives and communities across the country. The debates are being broadcast daily through the official platforms of CBC Books.
ArtsForward continues to act as the central hub for culture in the region under the leadership of Executive Director Yvonne Sisley and Director of Programming Rrain Prior. The venue, which was formerly known as the Viscount Cultural Centre before rebranding in 2016, frequently hosts cultural programming, including recent efforts like the Member Exhibit Gala held in February.
In addition to hosting literary discussions, the organization works to provide a space for community events, including Indigenous Culture Day and collaborations with the local Filipino community. Residents looking to engage with local arts programming can find more information about current and upcoming initiatives through the organization’s office.
