WINNIPEG — The countdown to the 112th Grey Cup is officially underway, and while the Saskatchewan Roughriders and Montreal Alouettes prepare for Sunday’s showdown at Winnipeg’s Princess Auto Stadium, fans from across Canada are already filling the city with energy, colour and camaraderie.
Among the early arrivals are Brampton’s own Sheree and Steve Bashak, well-known CFL superfans whose enthusiasm has become a staple of Grey Cup festivities. Even though their beloved Hamilton Tiger-Cats are not competing this year, the couple made the journey — costumes and all — to be part of the annual celebration.
Sheree, a long-time Ti-Cats supporter and season-ticket holder, once again appeared dressed as the Grey Cup itself, complete with a handmade foil hat and custom earrings representing both competing teams. Her husband Steve joined the fun in an inflatable football outfit, adding to the festive atmosphere at Friday’s street festival.
“It’s community and fun and love — and we need more of that in the world,” Sheree said, explaining why she returns year after year. Despite her affection for Montreal’s star receiver Tyson Philpot, she admits she will be cheering for Saskatchewan this time, still feeling the sting of Hamilton’s recent playoff loss.
The Grey Cup weekend also remains a treasured tradition for many families. Toronto resident Barry Ryan has attended the championship with his son Kevin for 25 years, a tradition that later grew to include his grandson James, who now lives in Winnipeg. This year’s game marks another milestone as Kevin’s daughter joins the family tradition for the first time. Their signature mechanic-style jumpsuits — adorned with patches from every Grey Cup they’ve attended — are a fan favourite wherever they go.
Across the festivities, CFL supporters echo the same sentiment: Grey Cup weekend offers a uniquely Canadian celebration where rivalries exist without hostility. “Everyone is wearing their team colours, but there’s no fights,” said Kevin Ryan. “Any other sport and this would be different. Here, it’s all good fun.”
For long-time B.C. Lions fan Kyle Dunn, who is attending his 23rd consecutive Grey Cup, the weekend is all about atmosphere and connection. Now joined by his partner Heather Smith, Dunn says the championship brings people together in a way unmatched by other sporting events. “We’re all here for football. We’re all here to have a good time. It’s uniquely Canadian.”
With thousands of fans descending on Winnipeg, concerts, cooking competitions and team events are adding to the excitement as the city transforms into the temporary heart of Canadian football culture. And as kickoff approaches, many fans — especially those whose teams have already been eliminated — say they simply hope for a thrilling match that goes down to the wire.
The 112th Grey Cup will be played on Sunday, November 16, 2025, promising another unforgettable chapter in the long-standing tradition of Canadian football.