Unfortunately for Edmontonians, the month of November often brings about the unofficial start of winter. No matter who you are, how long you have lived in the city, or even how much you love the season, approximately six months of snow and frigid temperatures can bring down even the happiest person. Fear not, winter does not have to suck. Yes, I said it. There are plenty of seasonal and cozy activities to help you make the most of this otherwise drab time of year.
- Go Skating at One of Edmonton’s Many Outdoor Ice Rinks
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As quite possibly the least athletic person on the planet, I’m not one for skiing, snowboarding, playing hockey, or pretty much participating in any winter sports. That being said, I love nothing more in the winter than to go to an outdoor skating rink, lace up my skates, and finish the whole experience off with hot cocoa. In Edmonton, my favorite skating rink is Victoria Park Iceway–it is seriously stunning at night! If you are in need of skate rentals, The Hawrelak Park Skating Rink has got you covered. Not only is this a great way to boost your winter spirits, but skating also makes a great, romantic, and affordable date night as well.
You can find more information about skating in Edmonton here.
- Explore The Ice Castles
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If you have ever been on any type of social media in the winter, I am willing to bet money that you have seen several photos of the infamous Ice Castles. Located in Hawrelak Park, this stunning ice sculpture is lit from all angles. It features tunnels, thrones, fountains, and even slides for you to explore. Not only is it an awesome, unique, and relatively affordable way to spend an afternoon or evening, it is literally the photo op of your Instagram’s dreams.
- Cozy Up in One of Many Cute Cafes
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As you probably know, it gets ridiculously cold in Edmonton. The best way to warm up on an especially cold day? Nursing a warm and delicious beverage in one of the city’s many cafes. Some of my favorites include Remedy Cafe who’s chai latte is by far the best in the city, Square 1 Coffee which has a comfy and cozy vibe, and District Cafe which serves up some seriously delicious baked goods.
- Try Your Hand at a New Hobby
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When you’re stuck at home because of a snowpocalypse and frigid temperatures, what better to occupy your time than trying out a new hobby. Not only is this more productive than binging Netflix, but you may also actually find something that you truly enjoy. While I have recently embraced my inner elderly woman and started knitting, the options are endless. Love to doodle? Perhaps bullet journaling is for you. Love a good scone or a cupcake? Try your hand at baking. Anything goes. If you’re looking for inspiration, check out Pinterest!
- Attend A Winter Festival
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Not only is Edmonton a winter city, but it is also regarded as the “Festival City”, and for good reason! Over the next couple of months, the city will host an abundance of diverse festivals. These festivals are a unique–and often cheap–way to get out of the house during a time where there is little else to do. Examples include Boardwalk’s Ice on Whyte which is an ice carving festival occurring in late January and Glow which is an indoor light festival taking place in November and December.