Activities & Locations

What to do? 

Birdwatching

Winter’s a great time to watch for birds in and around Edmonton. The Edmonton Nature Club has lots of local birding information, and even hosts winter field trips to look for feathered friends.

Freezing bubbles

Yes, freezing bubbles! The temperature has to be at least -10°C, but colder is better. There are many recipes online, but here’s one to try: one part water, four parts dish soap, and a dash of light corn syrup. Try blowing the bubbles onto a table or other cold surface and watch ice crystals form in them.

Full-moon walk

Go for a walk by the light of the moon. The full moon seems extra bright in winter when its light shines off the snow. Bundle up and have a magical outdoor experience.

Ice Fishing

For ice fishing spots around Edmonton, check out the recommendations on the Tri-Region Tourism page.

Kicksledding

Used in Scandinavian countries for getting around in the winter, kicksleds can also be great for festival fun and winterfest races. Community groups can borrow kicksleds from their Neighbourhood Resource Coordinator (contact 311 to find your NRC).

Scavenger hunt  

Everything looks and sounds different in the winter. Head to a local park or the river valley to find things you can’t see in summer – animal tracks, icicles, frozen ponds. What will you find in our winter wonderland?

Stargazing

Winter is a great time for stargazing – the sky gets dark earlier, the stars are brighter, and if you’re lucky, you’ll see Northern Lights. Try to find a spot away from the streetlights for the best view. The Observatory at the Telus World of Science and the University of Alberta Observatory both have public viewing hours.

Outdoor winter parties

For more active outdoor ideas, see the Frosty Fun section of the Be Social Toolkit.