Things to do in Calgary this Winter: Your Ultimate Guide
As winter blankets Calgary in a layer of snow, the city transforms into a vibrant playground of activities perfect for all ages. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a family looking for fun, or simply someone who wants to enjoy the season’s beauty, Calgary has something for everyone. Here’s a roundup of must-do winter activities to embrace the chilly season.
Tube And Ski At WinSport
Head to WinSport to experience the thrill of skiing or snow tubing on the Olympic slopes. Whether you're a seasoned skier or a first-timer, the stunning runs provide the perfect backdrop for a day of fun. Grab your gear and hit the slopes! Looking for an alternative to skiing? WinSport is a great spot for tubing, something everyone will enjoy!
Tubing at Winsport (source: Winsport)
Explore North Glenmore Ice Trail
For a unique skating experience, don’t miss the North Glenmore Ice Trail. This scenic loop is perfect for skaters of all skill levels and is surrounded by beautiful views of the park and city skyline.
Left: North Glenmore Ice Trail (source: Glenmore Park Community Association) Right: Calgary Hot Chocolate Festival (source: Aryn Toombs)
Enjoy Delicious Hot Chocolate At The Calgary Hot Chocolate Festival
Warm up with some of the city’s best hot chocolate at the Calgary Hot Chocolate Festival. Local cafes and chocolatiers compete to create the most delicious and inventive hot chocolate concoctions.
Details: February 1-28, 2025
Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary
Experience something truly unique by visiting the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary. This special place offers different tour options where you can learn about and interact with these incredible animals in a safe environment. From self-guided sanctuary walks to interactive tours, there’s a tour option to suit everyone!
Left: Yamnuska Wolf Dog Sanctuary (source: Yamnuska Wolf Dog Sanctuary) Right: Ice Biking at Bowness Park (source: The City of Calgary)
Ice Biking At Bowness Park
If you’re looking for an adventurous twist on winter cycling, try ice biking at Bowness Park. Ice bikes are bikes where the front wheel has been replaced by skates, and the back wheel is surrounded by skates. With these ice bikes, you can glide along the frozen trails for a thrilling ride.
Details: Opening December 20th (depending on ice conditions)
Calgary Zoo-Zoolights
Visit the Calgary Zoo for a memorable winter outing. the Zoolights display is a popular nighttime attraction that adds a festive flair to your visit, with the zoo transforming into a winter wonderland.
Details: November 15, 2024-January 5th, 2025
Left: Calgary Zoo Lights (source: Calgary Zoo) Right: Christmas Markets (source: Tourism Calgary)
Christmas Markets
Calgary's Christmas markets are a must-visit for holiday cheer. Check out:
- Millarville Chrismtas Market
- Inglewood Night Market
- Calgary Christmas Market
- Bowness Holiday Craft Fair
- Spruce Meadows International Christmas Market
- Granary Road's Christmas Market
- Saskatoon Farm Christmas Market
Explore local crafts, delicious food, and festive treats that make for perfect holiday gifts and experiences.
Go Ice Fishing
For a unique winter experience, try ice fishing! Calgary’s Alberta Fishing Charters offers fully guided ice fishing packages that allow you to enjoy the activity without the need for expensive gear. It’s a great way to spend a day outdoors.
Left: Ice Fishing (Source: To Do Canada) Right: Fat Tire Biking (source: Calgary Herald)
Fat Tire Biking
If you’re up for a challenge, take on the snowy trails with fat tire biking. These specially designed bikes provide the stability and traction needed for an exhilarating ride through Calgary’s winter landscape. You can rent them from Bow Cycle, & they are a great way to spend a day while you are in Calgary.
Sledding
Relive childhood memories or introduce your kids to the joy of sledding. Find a local hill and grab your toboggan for some exhilarating fun. The City of Calgary website has a comprehensive list of locations for sledding & important safety tips to ensure you stay safe while having fun.
Left: Sledding (Source: Daily Hive) Right: Ice Magic Festival (Source: Banff & Lake Louise Tourism)
Take A Trip To Lake Louise For The Ice Magic Festival
Make a day trip to Lake Louise to experience the Ice Magic Festival. This spectacular event showcases incredible ice sculptures and offers various activities that celebrate winter in one of Canada’s most stunning locations.
Calgary’s winter season is filled with endless possibilities, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or festive celebrations. Embrace the cold and make the most of what this beautiful city has to offer this winter!