Overdose Awareness Day Events in Winnipeg (2026)
- 11 hours ago
- 2 min read
International Overdose Awareness Day, held on August 31 every year, is the world's largest annual campaign to end overdose, remember without stigma those who have died and acknowledge the grief of family and friends left behind.
Drug overdose deaths are at a crisis in Manitoba. In April 2026, Winnipeg's Fire and Paramedic Service responded to three times as many opioid-related calls as April the previous year. Front-line organizations including Main Street Project have called on the province to declare a public health emergency after a spike in drug-related deaths.
The theme for International Overdose Awareness Day 2026 is "25 Years On. Still Needed," marking the campaign's 25th anniversary and the reality that overdose is preventable, but the solutions that work aren't always seen, shared or embraced.
Here are events we know of in Winnipeg where you can stand together with our community, or get training on how to help someone suffering drug poisoning. If you know of more events, please share them to our calendar.
Overdose Awareness Day Events
No artistic experience is needed—all supplies provided.
Thu Aug 27th 10:00am - 12:00pm
Nine Circles Community Health Centre, 705 Broadway
Honour the loved ones we have lost to overdose and drug poisoning. Sharing circle is open to Women and gender diverse folks. Sacred fire is open to all.
Fri Aug 28th 1:00pm - 3:00pm
640 Ellice Ave
Smudge and stroll through the streets of West Broadway, moving toward the Legislature building to the official rally.
Mon Aug 31st 10:30am - 12:00pm
Meeting at 333 Maryland St.
Listen to advocates speak to the current weight of the toxic drug crisis and its effects.
Mon Aug 31st 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Manitoba Legislative Building
Free Drug Poisoning Training
West Central Women's Resource Centre, 640 Ellice Ave
Registration not required. Open to women and gender-diverse folks
Sport Manitoba, 145 Pacific Avenue
Registration required. Open to people who live or work in central Winnipeg. Use code freepass1
Acorn Family Place, 222 Furby St
Registration required.
