by Eva Kurilova
If you're going to be spending time in Edmonton this winter, don't let the snow keep you inside. Edmonton's coldest months can also be its most enjoyable. Here are 10 Edmonton winter events that can help you make the most of the season. [Photo credit: iStockphoto.com/ghgalal]
The Hawrelak Park Ice Castles are a veritable winter playground for adults and children alike. Open for three and a half months, this acre-sized ice castle kingdom is a true celebration of the season. Of all Edmonton's winter events, a ride down the ice slide is a favourite to many.
One of the most notable Edmonton events following New Year's Eve, Deep Freeze: A Byzantine Winter Festival is a unique cultural celebration the whole family can enjoy. Whether you marvel at artistic displays or try your hand at traditional winter games, Deep Freeze will have you coming back for day two.
Would winter really be complete without an ice carving competition? You'll definitely say no after checking out Edmonton's Ice on Whyte Ice Carving Festival and seeing more than 150,000 pounds of ice turned into beautiful works of art. Don't hesitate to take an ice carving lesson while you’re there!
In early February, Mill Creek Ravine becomes the setting for two evenings of music, dance and storytelling known as Flying Canoë Volant. The celebrations are inspired by the legend of the Flying Canoe, a tale of French-Canadian lumberjacks who used a flying canoe to be with their loved ones on New Year's Eve.
Affectionately called the "Birkie," the Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival is the largest cross-country ski event in all of Canada. No matter your skill level, join the more than 2,000 other participants in a variety of events. You can also just sit back with a warm beverage and have fun cheering!
The longest running of all Edmonton's winter events, the Silver Skate Festival is back for its 26th year. Fun and free for the whole family, the festival celebrates Dutch winter traditions and features events such as skate racing and horse-drawn sleigh rides.
The Ranch Golf and Country Club's Winter Warrior Challenge is a truly Canadian way to close out Edmonton's winter festivities. A five-kilometre obstacle course though snow and ice, Winter Warrior lets you take on Edmonton's winter head-to-head.
Winter may be dark, but the City of Edmonton remains lively and bright. From beautiful light displays to unique cultural celebrations, Edmonton's winter events will keep you entertained all season long.
