Brandon, Manitoba

Brandon (/ˈbrændən/) is the second-largest city in the province of Manitoba, Canada. It is located in the southwestern corner of the province on the banks of the Assiniboine River, approximately 214 kilometres (133 mi) west of the provincial capital, Winnipeg, and 120 kilometres (75 mi) east of the Saskatchewan border. Brandon covers an area of 77.41 km² (29.89 sq mi) with a population of 51,313, and a census metropolitan area population of 54,268. It is the primary hub of trade and commerce for the Westman Region and parts of southeastern Saskatchewan, an area with a population of more than 190,000 people.

The City of Brandon was incorporated in 1882, having a history rooted in the Assiniboine River fur trade as well as its role as a major junction on the Canadian Pacific Railway. Known as The Wheat City, Brandon's economy is predominantly associated with agriculture, as well as health care, manufacturing, food processing, education, business services, and transportation.

Brandon's post-secondary institutions include Brandon University, Assiniboine Community College, Robertson College, and the Manitoba Emergency Services College. Canadian Forces Base Shilo is located 30 km (19 mi) east of Brandon and maintains close ties with the city. Brandon's Keystone Centre, is one of the largest consolidated entertainment, recreation, convention, and agriculture complexes in Canada and is the home of the Brandon Wheat Kings and the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair.