Embracing Winter: How Edmonton Transforms into a Seasonal Wonderland
By Ashaan Jiwani on November 19, 2024
When winter arrives in Edmonton, the city doesn’t sleep – it comes alive with a blinding white. Many people around Edmonton awake in shock when the snow comes suddenly one morning. Despite this, the city still celebrates the cold. For people who also enjoy this cold spirit, here’s a list of things you can do in spite of this chill.
Winter Festivals
Edmonton’s winter festivals are well-loved and well-known around the city. Here are some you should visit if you enjoy the comforts of winter.
- Deep Freeze: A Byzantine Winter Festival: This family-friendly event has ice and snow sculptures, live music, and tasty food. It mixes Ukrainian and French-Canadian traditions.
- Silver Skate Festival: Held temporarily in Laurier Park, this 10-day festival has ice skating, snow sculptures, winter sports, and cultural activities. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors.
- Chiseled (Formerly Ice on Whyte): Held at the Ice District see ice carvings by international artists and try ice carving yourself, and enjoy some warm drinks at the fire.
Outdoor Activities
If you like staying active in the snow, Edmonton is a prime location for those who love snow sports.
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Visit Snow Valley, Rabbit Hill, or Sunridge Ski Area for skiing and snowboarding. These places offer short paths for beginners and challenging runs for experts.
- Cross-Country Skiing: Check out Edmonton’s many cross-country ski trails. The River Valley and Gold Bar Park have scenic routes for all skill levels.
- Ice Skating: Whether you like outdoor rinks or indoor arenas, Edmonton has many places to skate. Victoria Park is a popular outdoor spot, while the Ice Palace in West Edmonton Mall is a good indoor option.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a culture lover, or someone who enjoys the warmth indoors, Edmonton has something for you in winter. Embrace the season and see why Edmonton truly is Canada’s Festival City. From its vibrant festivals to its engaging activities, there’s always something happening to keep the winter blues at bay. Discover more about what makes Edmonton special by visiting the Explore Edmonton Winter Festivals page.