Whether or not you’re ready to say goodbye to winter (we certainly are), there’s one more opportunity to send off the season in style. Franco Winterfest is a winter festival happening in Calgary this weekend at The Confluence, formerly Fort Calgary. There will be classic francophone treats, cultural performances, and activities for all to enjoy. Oh, and it’s free to attend!

What to expect

The event kicks off with an opening ceremony and the raising of the Franco-Albertan flag at 10:15 a.m. What follows is a festive day packed with activities for all ages.

You can expect indoor and outdoor activities such as an ice skating rink, bubble balls, a sumo costume battle, an inflatable castle, and children’s entertainment.

There will also be musical and cultural performances featuring artists showcasing Francophone traditions from Québec, Alberta, Africa, and Indigenous groups.

It’s a jam-packed day, but don’t worry if your belly starts growling. If you get hungry there will be a classic brunch spread available along with maple taffy on snow – a quintessential Canadian treat!

Day Schedule

11:00 a.m. – Festival Opening

11:10 a.m. – Calgary Metis Cultural dancers

11:30 a.m. – Sandra Lamouche (Hoop Dancer)

11:45 a.m. – Trad’Badour (Roger Dallaire & Daniel Gervais)

12:25 p.m. – NGONGI MUSICA

1:00 p.m. – Cultural Parade

1:25 p.m. – FOLKLOFOLIE

2:00 p.m. – Calgary Métis Cultural Dancers

2:20 p.m. – Sandra Lamouche (Hoop Dancer)

2:40 p.m. – Trad’Badour (Roger Dallaire & Daniel Gervais)

3:15 p.m. – NGONGI MUSICA

3:50 p.m. – FOLKLOFOLIE

4:30 p.m. – Festival Closing

Stop by and celebrate winter the French way with tradition, music, and warm community spirit.

Franco Winterfest Calgary

When: Saturday, March 1, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Where: The Confluence, 750 9 Ave SE, Calgary
Cost: Free to attend

Recent Posts:
There’s a lovely footbridge in the heart of Banff that’s perfect for a stroll
Relax in a healing salt cave at this unique wellness spa in Calgary

Alicia Lyons

Alicia Lyons

Staff Writer

Alicia is a storyteller who chased the sun all the way to Calgary and decided to stay. When she’s not writing, she can be found stumbling along nature trails, curling up under a fuzzy blanket with a good book, or finding any excuse to eat.

Read articles