5 Calgary festivals to look forward to this winter
Calgary is known for having amazing festivals, and winter is no exception. Even when the temperatures drop and snow piles up, the city comes alive with celebrations.
From live music performances and art displays to high-energy sports and shows, here are five Calgary festivals to look forward to this winter.
High Performance Rodeo
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The High Performance Rodeo is a three-week festival right in Calgary, where you can find a ton of theatre, dance, comedy, and music performances all across the city. It’s the largest festival of its kind in Western Canada.
When: Jan. 13 to 30, 2026
Where: Various locations across Calgary
Chinook Blast
Chinook Blast/Shutterstock
Chinook Blast is back this year, and it’s going to be fantastic. You can find amazing light and art displays, live music performances, night markets, skating, performances, and more. It runs for just over two weeks!
When: Jan. 30 to Feb. 16, 2026
Where: Eau Claire Plaza — 101 Barclay Parade SW
Block Heater
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The Calgary Folk Music Festival is bringing its winter celebration right to The Confluence this year. Watch as they transform the riverside into a music hub featuring a ton of artists across multiple stages and a massive, heated 1,000-person tent.
When: Feb. 5 to 7, 2026
Where: The Confluence — 750 9th Ave. SE
YYC Hot Chocolate Fest
YYC Hot Chocolate Fest/Facebook
If you love hot chocolate, you’re going to love this festival. The YYC Hot Chocolate Fest is a community fundraiser event where establishments sell hot chocolate to try and win the title of YYC’s best hot chocolate, the best spirited hot chocolate, most creative hot chocolate, worth the drive or the cup that runneth over award. $1 to $3 of every hot chocolate sold goes towards Calgary’s Meals on Wheels.
When: Feb. 1 to 28, 2026
Where: Various locations across Calgary
Skijor
Skijor Canada
Touted as the “greatest show on snow,” Skijor is one of Calgary’s most unique festivals. The two-day event combines speed, skill, and tricks as skiers are pulled across snow-covered fields in a thrilling race. Apart from the intense sport, spectators can also enjoy a marketplace, fondue and food trucks, wood fires, craft beers, and a skijor party.
When: Feb. 21 to 22, 2026
Where: The Confluence — 750 9th Ave. SE