Here's where you can escape winter walking among flowers, fountains, and birds

As recommended by health officials, if you choose to participate in events outside of your home, please adhere to COVID-19 health and safety measures, including proper physical distancing, mask-wearing, and frequent handwashing. If you are sick, please stay home.

The Lougheed House is hosting a fun and free alternative to flying south and spending time on the beach this winter.

The Snowbird Festival features installations and ice sculptures that will warm your heart and spruce up your Instagram feed – although you probably won’t get a tan.

Local artists have created whimsical pieces that make up the “Winter Garden,” popping up on the west side of the Lougheed House for the remainder of February.

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The Winter Garden is home to a floral deer mannequin, a giant flower tea cup, ice benches, and oversized topiaries, and as visitors wander along the footpath, they’re sure to feel as if they’ve arrived in an alternate reality.

 

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On the Lougheed House’s southwest lawn, you’ll find the “Play, Place, & Pretence” pieces, which have been brought to life by seven Calgary artists responding to the theme of fact versus fiction.

Explore a new world right in the heart of the city from now until February 28 at the Snowbird Festival, where visitors are encouraged to look at, photograph, and touch the wide array of installations.

 

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Lougheed House Snowbird Festival

When: February 20 to 28
Time: 7 am to 11 pm
Where: Lougheed House (707 13th Avenue SW)
Cost: Free