Top 5 fun things to do in Calgary this winter

By Cody Battershill
January 10, 2024

Winter weather usually keeps most of us inside hibernating away from the cold and not as active as we are during the spring or summer. But lo and behold, there are several activities in Calgary that will keep your blood pumping even on the chilliest of winter days.

Here are Calgaryism’s top five Calgary winter activities to do in and around the city, including in the foothills and Rocky Mountains to the west.

1. Ice Skating

Embrace Calgary’s winter wonderland by visiting one of the over 70 outdoor skating rinks across the city. With the skating season typically running from November to March, you can enjoy the thrill of gliding on ice at various outdoor rinks maintained by volunteers or community associations.

2. Skiing & Snowboarding

Explore the slopes of Canada Olympic Park (COP) or the nearby Rocky Mountains for skiing and snowboarding activities. While COP is close to home, take your outdoor recreation to the next level and travel about an hour to world-class ski resorts such as Sunshine, Lake Lousie and Nakiska, all reachable in less than three hours of driving from the city limits.

3. Winter Festivals & Events

Immerse yourself in Calgary’s vibrant winter festivals and events, including the BIG Winter Classic, High Performance Rodeo Festival, Chinese New Year, and other seasonal celebrations that showcase the city’s festive spirit and unique winter charm. Many of these events and others not listed are great for the whole family, so check them out!

4. Winter Hiking & Snowshoeing

Embark on winter hikes and snowshoeing adventures amid the picturesque natural landscapes in and around Calgary. With scenic trails and snow-covered landscapes like Nose Hill Park and Fish Creek Provincial Park as well as more advanced trails in Kananaskis Country and Banff National Park, you’ll have a wide variety of tranquil settings to explore whichever way you choose.

5. Indoor Attractions & Cultural Experiences

Discover Calgary’s best indoor attractions such as the Glenbow Museum, National Music Centre, and Military Museums (to name a few), or enjoy a cozy retreat at local cafes and restaurants that offer warm and inviting atmospheres amid the winter season. Banff and Canmore are also home to various resorts and hotels that make for the perfect winter escape, especially for skiing enthusiasts.

Stay Warm and Be Safe!

Winter is a great time to hibernate with family and friends indoors, but also enjoy various outdoor activities most Canadians are accustomed to and love. Please be safe, stay warm and take the necessary precautions when travelling and engaging in activities this winter!

The Calgaryism Real Estate Team wishes you a wonderful winter season!

About Cody Battershill

Cody Battershill is the founder of Calgaryism and a top producing Realtor® at RE/MAX House of Real Estate. Born and raised in Calgary, Cody has a passion for helping his clients accomplish their real estate goals and loves to show off the best that Calgary has to offer! He can be reached at 403.370.4008, on Twitter @Calgaryism and Calgaryism.ca

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