Jasleen MahindruWinter in Edmonton has a reputation. As an international student who came to this country four winters ago, I dreaded getting frostbite in the first five minutes and experiencing the kind of wind that whispers personal insults. Now I know better, because I know it’s worse. But I also know that it only takes a few well-timed adventures — and possibly a good pair of socks — to discover how winter in Edmonton can be less of a burden and more of a bragging right.
Here are five ways (other than leaving the country, of course) to make the most of the season, Canadian-Prairie style:
1. Hit the ice — preferably somewhere scenic
Whether it’s the Victoria Park Oval or a neighbourhood rink lovingly maintained by volunteers with shovels and questionable playlists, skating is arguably Edmonton’s most democratic winter pastime. You don’t need much: skates, balance, and the willingness to fall in public. The reward? That perfect glide under clear prairie skies, the crunch of fresh ice, and the quiet sense that maybe winter isn’t so bad.
2. Visit the Ice District for something other than hockey
Sure, Rogers Place is a hot spot when the Oilers are at home, but the surrounding Ice District also becomes a lively winter hub. Outdoor events, holiday markets, and the kind of people-watching that makes you forget your eyelashes are freezing together. It’s urban winter energy at its best — bright, loud, and constantly trying to convince you to buy a branded toque.
3. Embrace the River Valley before it hibernates
Edmonton’s river valley trail system doesn’t close just because the temperature dips. In fact, it gets better. Snow-covered trees turn everyday walks into small cinematic moments, and the trails are ideal for winter running, fat biking, or simply strolling with a thermos of something warm. The key is layers, many layers. Think “walking laundry pile” and a great pair of boots, and you are ready.
4. Warm up in a local café (the real winter sport)
Ask any Edmontonian, and they’ll admit winter is just an elaborate excuse to drink more coffee. Independent cafés across the city go full cozy this time of year: soft lights, steamy windows, and mugs big enough to double as hand warmers. Whether you’re thawing out between errands or hiding from the cold entirely, Edmonton’s café culture is peak winter survival.
5. Chase the northern lights like a local
You don’t need to drive hours north to catch the aurora — sometimes they show up right over the city. The best viewing can happen on a short trip outside Edmonton, like Elk Island National Park and the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area, where the sky is darker. Or, even right from your bedroom window, the show can be spectacular. Bundle up, bring a friend, and pretend you planned the whole thing instead of frantically checking apps for aurora alerts.
Winter in Edmonton doesn’t have to be something you endure. With the right attitude — and occasionally the right long underwear — it can actually be one of the most charming times of the year. After all, not every city offers a season that quite literally sparkles.
