While the snow may have started to melt away we still have several weeks of the chilly season left on the calendar and the events are aplenty! From light displays to ice caves, parts of Alberta still look and feel like a frozen wonderland. In celebration of that, here are 10 things to do before winter ends in Calgary.
WINTERFEST
Featuring a variety of exciting and very different events Sylvan Lake’s Winterfest is back and just as fun as ever. While many activities such as their snow maze and ice slides are dependent on the weather, their ‘Pass the Poutine’ contest, fishing derby and cultural workshops are still on. Check it out!
When: Saturday, February 19th – 21st, 2022
Where: See directions here
Time: 8 pm – 9 pm
Cost: Prices vary per activity
CHINOOK BLAST
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From the GLOW light festival to activities and concerts, Calgary’s Chinook Blast is one of the year’s most anticipated events. Until Febrary 27th, check out the best in local art, music theatre and recreation at a number of venues around the inner city.
When: Until Sunday, February 27th
Where: Downtown Calgary
NIKKA YUKO JAPANESE GARDEN WINTER LIGHTS FESTIVAL
Under thousands of lights and a blanket of stars, wander Alberta’s enchanting Nikka Yuko Garden – one of the most beautiful places not only in the province but in all of North America. Known best for its flower gardens, this incredible destination will light the night until the end of February. Don’t miss it!
When: Until March 19th
Where: Corner of 9th Ave S &, Mayor Magrath Dr. S, Lethbridge
CALGARY ZOO PENGUIN WALK
Warm your hearts, even in the coldest temperatures. This winter, from now until mid-March animal lovers will have the unique opportunity to waddle with the city’s cutest and chilliest creatures – the Penguins of the Calgary Zoo! This event is weather permitting, so make sure you check out their website before heading out!
When: Until mid-March (weather depending)
Where: 210 St. George’s Drive NE, Calgary
Time: 10:30 am
Cost: $29.95+
OLYMPIC PLAZA SKATING RINK
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Clasp a hand and dig your skates into the ice. As Calgary’s only refrigerated outdoor rink Olympic Plaza is still frozen and open to the public – but hurry! It won’t be long until the area is melted down and dried out for the spring.
Where: 228 8 Ave. SE, Calgary
Time: 6 am – 11 pm
NIGHTRISE
An event that encourages a new and inspring perspective, the Banff Gondola’s Nightrise brings the mountains to life with lights, projections and incredible storytelling. For more information and tickets, check out the link above
When: Until March 12th
Where: 100 Mountain Ave, Banff, AB
Time: 5 pm
Cost: $56
MALIGNE CANYON
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Located in Jasper National Park, Maligne Canyon is a sight to behold. Covered in Ice and metres underground these magical caves are unlke anything you’ll see in the summer time, so check it out while you still can!
Where: Directions here – Jasper National Park, AB
Time: 9:30 am and 1 pm
Cost: $69 / Adult
MT. NORQUAY TUBE TRAIL
Not everyone is comfortable on a pair of skis, which is why we’re a big fan of the ount Norquay tube park! Enjoy the breeze and hit the hills for an adrenaline-inducing activity that will delight the entire family.
Where: #2 Mt Norquay Rd, Banff
TOP DECK SKATING RINK
With 2 rinks and an opportunity to do some good, outdoors folk are encouraged to go for a glide at Southcentre Mall where they’ve converted a parade into a skating rink! For more information check out the link above.
When: Thursday, February 3rd – March
Where: 100 Anderson Rd SE, Calgary (Upper deck of the North East Parkade)
Time: Thursday and Friday – 3 pm to 7 pm | Saturday and Sunday – 11 am to 7 pm
Cost: $2 per person
FAIRMONT CHATEAU LAKE LOUISE ICE BAR
Bundle up and start the car! This Winter head to the mountains for a brew with a view. From now until the bar literally melts away, check out the Chateau Lake Louise’s magically delicious ice bar and grab a cold one!
When: Until mid-April (weather permitting)
Where: 111 Lake Louise Dr, Lake Louise, AB
Time: 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Whew, there you have it, friends. 10 things to do before the end of this winter in Calgary. Hurry! You’ve only got a few weeks left!
