Winnipeg Whiteout Street Party expanding for Friday’s Jets game

Winnipeggers will have another chance to party outside Bell MTS Place as the Winnipeg Jets look to land a series win Friday.

The Whiteout Street Party is expanding to become the biggest one yet.

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An additional television screen, expanded venue as well as additional vendors and washrooms will all be in place for the 4:30 p.m. party opening on Friday.

Economic Development Winnipeg  said the capacity will be increased by more than 50 per cent to allow even more Winnipeggers to celebrate.

“We’re going to continue to tweak the layout of this street party to make sure we do the best possible job we can every time,” CEO Dayna Spiring said Monday.

The party zone capacity was previously increased from 6,000 to 10,000 people for game two as well as an added a family-friendly, alcohol-free zone behind the Millenium Library.

Now, Graham Street will also be closed to allow more access.

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“Additional entry and exit points will allow for greater site access and movement, including new entry points on Graham and Hargrave, as well as Graham and Smith,” a release from Economic Development said. “This is in addition to existing entry points at Portage and Donald, and St. Mary and Donald.”

Friday is also 4/20 — the day cannabis advocates gather at the legislature to celebrate pot. Winnipeg police said as long as the pot protest stays at the legislature — everything should be fine.

“4/20 we don’t see as a huge conflict,” Insp. Nick Paulet said.

“Perhaps a migration of a crowd from the ledge to the party, which for the most part as long as everybody is obeying the law would be a welcome addition.”

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As for whether or not organizers plan to open Bell MTS Place for viewing away games, True North’s Kevin Donnelly said they would consider it.

“As we look at (round two) series in the future coming ahead, if needed, we would do it for sure.”