The Forks is testing out a new initiative called Play at The Forks to get Winnipeggers of all ages outdoors and moving, all to get a response for future activities.

Play at The Forks is a pop-up initiative to test out play elements in the CN Stage and Field area. Activities include basketball, soccer, table tennis and a painted playground, and all of them are free to enjoy—including the equipment.

"We are always looking for new and interesting ways for people to enjoy The Forks. Testing play elements at CN Stage and Field throughout the summer will help us build future programming and amenities for this space based on public feedback," says Sara Stasiuk, CEO, The Forks North Portage.

Bright polka dots near CN Stage and Field will signal where each of the four elements is located: basketball under CN Stage, soccer in CN Field, Table Tennis on top of the berm in the field and a painted playground along the east path next to the field.

Soccer balls, table tennis paddles and balls and basketballs are available to sign out with a piece of ID from Bee2gether Bikes, located at the northwest corner of The Forks Market.

Everyone who plays and fills out a short survey will be entered to win a $100 Forks gift card. The survey is to get community feedback on what elements work and what needs to be changed. Each play area has QR codes on the signs that lead to the survey.

Play at The Forks will run throughout the summer until the weather starts to cool in the fall. All elements are open to the public for pick-up games only and are not intended for league play.

Some public programming is planned. Check The Forks event calendar for details.

Play stations will be cleaned up if the CN Stage and Field is booked for a large event and will be set back up once the event has ended.