The University of Manitoba turns 150 in 2027, and we are planning a series of events and programs to celebrate and commemorate the occasion. Our campuses, situated on the original lands of First Nations and Métis, are the catalyst for the leaders and dreamers Manitoba depends on, and discoveries that have impacted the world. You—our students, staff, faculty and alumni—are the thread running through it all. This is an early peek at what is being planned, and this is your invitation to be part of a once-in-a-lifetime year. Explore what's ahead and share your UM Moment with us! 
 

Share your UM moment
Four archival images separated by a decorative ribbon shaped. From left to right: aerial view of Fort Garry campus in the early 1900s; Dancers at a grad Pow Wow in 2025; Students lounging in the 70s; two women in a science lab in the mid 20th century.

UM150

Join us for this once-in-a-lifetime year!

UM150 Signature Events and Activities

UM150 is a year-long celebration of everything the University of Manitoba has been, and everything it is yet to achieve. From a special kick-off with our students, faculty and staff on both campuses to a supersized Homecoming and community-wide Bisons Block Party, to an inspiring exhibit at the Manitoba Museum, public art and acts of service across the province, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re a student, staff, faculty, retiree, alum, donor or simply a proud Manitoban—UM150 belongs to you. Join us in 2027 and be part of the story.

four people posing in front of a balloons and marquee light up letters.

UM150 Kick-Off

Students, faculty, staff and retirees – the anniversary starts with you! On February 26, 2027, join us for special kick-off events and be the first to cut the cake and get your hands on UM150 apparel and more. You don’t want to miss being a part of the moment the anniversary begins.

Date: February 26, 2027
Who: Employees, students, retirees
Registration: Opens January 2027

The Disrupters, a group of university alumnae who persisted in an inequitable world.

History Exhibit

150 years of discovery, impact and community. In partnership with the Manitoba Museum, UM150 presents a multi-sensory exhibit telling the university's story in the context of Manitoba and world history— the firsts, the proud moments, the difficult ones, and how our past informs our future. Journey through the moments that made us, and the ideas that will shape the world to come.

Dates: May to November, 2027
Who: UM community, schools and general public
Tickets: Details on discount admission and free nights released in fall 2026

Four people posing at a homecoming game in their Bisons gear.

Homecoming and Bisons Block Party UM150 edition

Homecoming is always a celebration, but UM 150 is turning it up. The annual Bisons Block Party goes supersized with activities, archives, tours, Bisons football and soccer, music, art and a major concert headliner you don't want to miss. This is the community birthday party of the century, and everyone is invited.

Date: September 18, 2027
Who: UM community, general public
Registration: Opens January 2027
 

Online Photo Collage

No matter where your UM education has taken you, your story is part of ours. For UM150, we are building a collective photo mosaic, and we need 10,000 photos to make it happen. Get ready to submit your favourite photo (or ten) and a line or two about your UM moment. The mosaic will allow you to search other photos for classmates, favourite professors and familiar faces from across the years. Together, our photos will form a single image that celebrates and commemorates 150 years of people, place and pride. 

Date: Mosaic opens online February 26, 2027 
Who: Everyone!
 

Bisons Give Back

150 years of being part of this community inspires action. For UM150, we are asking our Bisons—students, faculty, staff, retirees and alumni—to complete 150 acts of kindness and service across Manitoba or wherever they live! Put on your thinking cap, get ready, and even gather a group! You will be able to register your act online, access materials and apply for a small fund to help bring your project to life. Let's show the community what Bisons do best.

Dates: February to December 2027
Who: UM alumni, students, faculty, staff and retirees
Details posted to the website fall 2026.
 

Billy on the Road

Manitoba's most beloved Bison is hitting the road. In Summer 2027, UM mascot Billy is travelling to festivals and events across the province to spread some serious Bison pride. Keep an eye out—Billy might be coming to an event near you.

Dates: Summer 2027

UM 150 Magazine

We are bringing back a special print edition of UM Today the Magazine. Mailing to alumni, inserting in the Free Press and Brandon Sun, and sharing with major partners like the Manitoba Museum and alumni-owned businesses. Complete with a calendar of anniversary events and full of amazing stories and photography, the magazine will blanket the province.

Date: On stands and in mailboxes March 2027

Public Art Installation

As part of UM150, we are commissioning an alum artist to create a permanent public art installation on campus, reflecting our history, our diversity and the future we are building together. Rooted in Manitoba materials and sustainable practice, this installation will become part of our story and make UM a destination for art lovers across the city.

150 Years of UM

The UM Science building on Broadway St in the early 1900s.

Explore the moments that defined UM’s journey from a small examining university to a globally recognized centre for research, learning and community impact. In this timeline, you’ll encounter stories of resilience during war and natural disasters, breakthroughs that changed lives around the world, and voices that pushed the university to be more inclusive and just. 

Journey through 150 years of UM

My UM Moment

We are all part of UM’s history. As we celebrate the university’s 150 years we invite you to share your most memorable moment of working, studying, and being part of this community.

Tell us about yourself

What is your name?

What is your connection to UM?

I am...
(please specify)
My connection to UM is...
Program and grad year (example: Bachelor of Science, 1997)
What is your faculty or department?
Email address

Notice Regarding Collection, Use, and Disclosure of Personal Information by the University  Your personal information is being collected under the authority of The University of Manitoba Act. The information you provide may be used by the University for the purpose of sharing your UM Moment during the 150th anniversary celebrations. Your personal information will not be used or disclosed for other purposes, unless permitted by The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA). If you have any questions about the collection of your personal information, contact the Access & Privacy Office (tel. 204-474-9462), 233 Elizabeth Dafoe Library, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N2.

Your UM moment

My most memorable University of Manitoba moment is...

  • Watching the Bisons Women’s Volleyball team capture the 2025 U SPORTS National Championship was an unforgettable experience. I can still hear the roar of the herd the moment the team secured their first national title in 11 years. The determination and teamwork on display during the final game and throughout the entire season reflect the very best of our university and reminded me how Bisons sports bring our community together. From the student‑athletes and coaches to the dedicated fans cheering them on, the victory was a proud moment for our entire community and a powerful example of the excellence that defines UM.

    Michael Benarroch

    UM President

  • "Too hard to pick one... The first would be traveling to Churchill for the Churchill Marine Observatory groundbreaking in August 2024. The second would be the PRAIRIE Biologics Accelerator groundbreaking earlier this year, two career milestones for me!"

    Sofia Danakas

    Staff

  • "As a student, forgetting I drove my car to campus and jumping on the bus outside Tier, waking up the next morning thinking my car was stolen and reporting to the police!"

    Susan Mainella 

    Alumni, Staff

Contact us

UM Events Team

rsvp@umanitoba.ca