Things to Do in January in Edmonton
Embrace the magic of a new year! Kick off 2024 like a true Edmontonian by climbing colossal walls of ice, gliding across unique outdoor rinks (ODRs), experiencing iconic winter festivals, and much more.
Brrr-ing in the Year with a Winter Festival
A Byzantine Winter Bash
Forge your way to the Deep Freeze Festival to watch winter magic unfold before your eyes! Celebrate Ukrainian, Indigenous, and French-Canadian cultures with winter panache, delicious food, captivating art, culture, and fun – including races in actual deep freezers! Take a stroll through the Alberta Avenue District (90-95 Street, 118 Ave) where breathtaking ice sculptures come alive, melodies fill the air, and culinary treasures await at every turn.
January 20-21
Chiseled: Edmonton's International Ice Carving Competition
Experience Chiseled: Edmonton’s International Ice Carving competition – formally Ice on Whyte – in the ICE District! See the work of some of the world’s elite carvers. Artists are given 34 hours and 15 blocks of ice to complete their sculpture, with the full splendour revealed on the final day!
January 18-20
The Spirit of Celebration
Whisky lovers, get ready to experience whisky drinking in a whole new light! From distillers and master blenders, to a variety of other whisky experts, the Edmonton Whisky Festival is your signature event to meet and greet experts in the field. For one night only, this event features over 175 globe-trotting varieties including selections from Ireland, Scotland, Canada, and the USA.
January 17
Winterruption
Bust out your parkas and dancing shoes for Winterruption! This multi-venue music and arts festival's lineup is a melting pot of talent from near and far. Featuring the Latin vibes of Making Movies from Kansas City, Toronto's psychedelic rockers Hot Garbage, Montreal's fluid hip hop artist Waahli, Calgary's buzz metal band Wake, R&B sensation Janette King from Toronto, and more incredible acts.
January 24-28
Outdoor Thrills
Discover Elk Island
Just a mere 35-minute journey from downtown unveils a winter wonderland unlike any other! Elk Island National Park dazzles with a symphony of snowy adventures, whether you’re into outdoor winter sports, hiking, stargazing, or snowshoeing. Embark on a guided journey with Talking Rock Tours to discover little-known facts about the park and its wildlife, or carve your own tale on the pristine surface of Astotin Lake, as you glide and twirl on skates for hours.
The Full Moon Birkie
Experience a magical evening of cross-country skiing under the light of the full moon at the Full Moon Birkie! The trails at Cooking Lake Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area are the perfect place to enjoy a winter adventure. Whether you're a seasoned skier or new to the sport, you'll love the chance to explore Birkie-land in the heart of the beautiful outdoors.
January 27
ACC Edmonton Ice Wall
This winter adventure will take you to cool new heights! The ACC Edmonton Ice Wall is the perfect activity for frosty thrill-seekers. With a climbing structure four times bigger and double the height, reaching a staggering 18 meters, get ready for an adrenaline-pumping, heart-racing experience like never before. Gear up on-site with rentals and lessons available. For experienced climbers, they can try honing their skills with the new drytooling walls.
The ODR Awaits
Edmonton offers an unparalleled outdoor skating experience amidst breathtaking landscapes! Glide through the trees of the river valley along Victoria Park or Rundle Park's ice paths (skate rentals available at Rundle Park Family Centre), or skate under the downtown lights at City Hall (free skate rentals available on Saturdays and Sundays). The ICE District Plaza is home to Edmonton’s newest outdoor rink, open to the public daily! Make sure to check out the City of Edmonton website for locations, hours, and conditions before you go.
Arts & Culture
Made in Italy
Made in Italy whisks you away to 1970s Jasper, where an Italian teenager dances through dual cultures with passion and ambition. Dive into this mesmerizing solo act, pulsating with disco beats, enchanting vocals, and a cast of unforgettable characters! Don't miss this vibrant journey of self-discovery and rhythm at the Citadel Theatre!
January 6-28
Mean Girls
Direct from the heart of Broadway, Mean Girls emerges as a theatrical masterpiece, a harmonious blend of the genius of Tina Fey's storytelling, Jeff Richmond's melodious compositions, Nell Benjamin's evocative lyrics, and the visionary direction and choreography of Casey Nicholaw. Catch this iconic show at the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium!
January 9-14
The Drawer Boy
Head to the Varscona Theatre to experience The Drawer Boy! Watch as a city actor immerses himself in rural tales while weaving them into his groundbreaking play. Witness the transformative power of art as it reshapes the lives of two farmers, and brace yourself for a journey where the lines between reality and narrative blur, leaving you captivated.
January 27
Let's Go, Oilers!
Witnessing one of Edmonton's iconic hockey teams in action is a truly Canadian experience. Catch the Edmonton Oilers or the Oil Kings as they race to win their respective leagues. Between the two teams, you'll find plenty of thunderous slapshots and gripping penalties to make for an action-packed January!
Various Dates in January
Metis Crossing
Embark on a day trip to Métis Crossing to be transported back in time! Discover how the Métis lived as trappers, learn about historical families and their homes, understand how plants are used as medicine, and much more. Take in inspiring experiences including the 'Visions, Hopes and Dreams Wildlife Park', the horse-drawn wagon ride, and 'Tales from the Trapline'. A treasure trove of discoveries await!
Edmonton's Best Hotels
Ready to level up your next Edmonton adventure with a some extra spending cash? Edmonton’s Best Hotels offers the best accommodations at the best price!
Book and receive free rewards:
- Stay one night and receive $50
- Stay two nights and receive $150
- Stay three nights and receive $225