We get it, winter in Alberta feels like it’s 100 months long. But hey, that can be a good thing if you’ve got the right information. For example, there are some super fun festivals popping up around the province over the next few weeks that simply couldn’t exist in any other season. So, rather than wishing winter away, why not dive in and enjoy everything it has to offer? If we know one thing in this province, it’s how to do winter right. From ice sculptures at Lake Louise to snowmobile races on Alberta Beach, these winter events will have you embracing the cold and all of the fun it can bring like never before. Grab your mittens, and let's dive into Alberta's coolest upcoming happenings.
Lake Louise Ice Magic Festival (January 29-Feb 2)
Kick off your next winter adventure with a visit to the incredible Lake Louise Ice Magic Festival held at the Chateau Lake Louise. This enchanting festival showcases world-class ice carvers crafting their breathtaking creations right before your eyes. The magical setting of Lake Louise, surrounded by towering snowy peaks, adds an extra layer of beauty. Sip on a hot drink while admiring the intricate sculptures, enjoy a skate on the lake, or take a romantic horse-drawn sleigh ride. The Ice Magic Festival is pure winter perfection, and you’ll feel like you're at the centre of a snow globe. The artistry, ambiance, and unbeatable views make this a must-have item on any winter bucket list.
Crimson Lake Winterfest (February 15)
Take the plunge and head to Rocky Mountain House for the Crimson Lake Winterfest and the annual Freezin’ For A Reason Polar Bear Dip, a Family Day tradition you don't want to miss. Enjoy sleigh rides, snowshoeing, and winter crafts. There's truly something for everyone. And the highlight of the weekend? A lively polar plunge for those brave enough to take the icy dip. It's a perfect way to connect with your family while enjoying Alberta's great outdoors. Plus, the brave polar plungers are always fun to cheer on. Or maybe you’re one of those brave plungers? Let’s see it!
Sundre Winterfest (February 16-17)
Get ready for small-town charm and big-time fun at Sundre Winterfest. The weekend's highlights include sleigh rides, live music, ice sculptures, and the Mountain Survivalist Competition, where teams of two are judged on their winter survival skills. The event brings the community together in true Alberta spirit, with warm hospitality, tasty food, and the chance to connect with the community over a shared love of winter activities and togetherness. We’re beginning to sense a sleigh ride theme? So you should probably try one of those.
Alberta Beach SnoMo Days (February 15-17)
SnoMo Days is the ultimate snowmobile lover's dream. It’s held at Alberta Beach and returns for its 45th anniversary this year. This action-packed weekend features family games, snowmobile races, car racing on ice, monster trucks, pony rides, fireworks, and a massive roaring bonfire to warm up. If you're a fan of motorsports and winter fun, SnoMo Days will rev your engines. For those who love a good time, there's live music and a beer garden to keep the energy up. It's a great mix of adrenaline-pumping stunts and laid-back winter fun. This is one jam-packed winter weekend you can’t miss.
Carnaval de St. Isidore (February 14-16)
Embrace Alberta’s Francophone community at Carnaval de St. Isidore in northern Alberta. This lively festival offers everything from maple taffy made on snow to traditional French Canadian live music and dancing, winter games, a log sawing competition, sleigh rides, and, of course, Poutine. The blend of cultural heritage and winter fun is a unique experience that will leave you smiling.
Snow Fever (Feb 15-17)
Snow Fever turns Cold Lake into one big winter party with activities for the whole family this Family Day Weekend. Think outdoor skating, a giant ice slide, a maple sugar shack, and wagon rides. New this year is the inaugural Cardboard Sled Race, where teams of two work together to build their best and most creative cardboard sled and then race to determine the fastest and furthest travelling sled. You don’t want to miss this unique and lively event.
Winter Magic Festival (February 7-23)
Over 2 weeks, Winter Magic Festival in Hinton is packed with winter sports, axe throwing competitions, a fat bike race, and a Hawaiian Luau to warm your toes and your hearts. It's the perfect excuse to extend your winter celebration over multiple days with so many entertaining events. Grab your family and friends, and mark your calendars. If you’re not in the area, you might just want to plan a visit.
UIAA Ice Climbing World Championship & YEG Ice Fest (February 27- March 2)
Edmonton's Louise McKinney Park transforms into an icy playground for The UIAA Ice Climbing World Cup and YEG Ice Fest all in one weekend. The world's best ice climbers will be coming to Edmonton to compete in lead ice climbing and speed ice climbing, showcasing their exceptional skills and bravery. Watch as climbers scale towering ice walls and even try your hand at beginner climbs. There's live entertainment and food trucks to keep your energy high. Witness the world's best ice climbers in action and perhaps discover a new winter hobby.
Britanny Burr is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for the Great West Media & Southern Alberta Newspapers Cool Winter Guide advertising feature. The Cool Winter Guide is a special feature about winter activities, bucket list adventures, winter attractions, events, and road trip-worthy food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
