Canada’s winter festivals turn the outdoor chills into thrills! Across the country, communities come together to celebrate—making winter a time to embrace the magic of the season.

The Great White North knows how to do winter, transforming snowy landscapes into vibrant, festive celebrations that make the most of the colder months. From coast to coast, winter festivals mark the season in a memorable way. Here’s a look at some of the can’t-miss winter festivals across Canada.

SnowDays Festival – Banff, Alberta

SnowDays brings Banff’s natural beauty and love of adventure together in a fantastic family-friendly winter celebration. Each January, the Town of Banff transforms into a winter wonderland filled with giant snow sculptures, ice carvings, and winter sports activities. The festival attracts outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy activities like snowshoeing, ice climbing, and skiing.

SnowDays Festival 2025 will take place from January 17 to February 2.

Toronto Light Festival

Held in the historic Distillery District, the Toronto Light Festival transforms the city with stunning light installations by both local and international artists. This playful festival brightens up the dark winter nights with curated and interactive light displays, sculptures, and projections that make for an enchanting and accessible experience.

Toronto Light Festival 2025 will take place from January 17 to March 1.

FROSTival – Fredericton, New Brunswick

FROSTival, Atlantic Canada’s largest winter celebration, spans three weekends and offers a wide range of activities across the Fredericton Capital Region. This festival combines both indoor and outdoor events, from art shows and live performances to snowshoeing and beer tastings. It includes both family-friendly events and great date-night options.

FROSTival 2025 will take place from January 23 to February 9.

Ice Magic – Lake Louise, Alberta

Lake Louise’s Ice Magic Festival is a stunning showcase of ice sculpture artistry set against the awe-inspiring Lake Louise and Victoria Glacier. At this frosty festival, professional carvers from around the world compete to create elaborate frozen masterpieces which are then put on display for the viewing pleasure of visitors.

Ice Magic 2025 will take place from January 29 to February 2.

Winterlude – Ottawa, Ontario

One of Canada’s most famous festivals, Winterlude is a three-week celebration that takes over Ottawa every February. The festival’s biggest draw is the Rideau Canal Skateway, which stretches for nearly eight kilometres through the heart of downtown. It also features an incredible ice sculpture competition and a massive snow playground for all ages.

Winterlude 2025 will take place from January 31 to February 17.

Carnaval de Quebec – Quebec City, Quebec

Quebec City’s Carnaval is one of the largest and oldest winter carnivals in the world, with roots dating back to 1894. Held annually in late January through early February, it is a lively fusion of traditional Quebecois heritage and pure winter fun. Activities include snow baths, ice canoe races, and plenty of maple taffy.

Carnaval de Québec 2025 will take place from February 7 to 16.

Festival du Voyageur – Winnipeg, Manitoba

Festival du Voyageur is a ten-day celebration of Canada’s fur-trading history, with a focus on French-Canadian culture and traditions. This festival dives deep into the era of voyageurs (canoe-travelling fur traders) with historical reenactments, folk music, hearty food, and period clothing. Step back in time with this immersive experience!

Festival du Voyageur 2025 will take place from February 14 to 23.

Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of outdoor sports, the artistry of ice sculptures, or the glow of light displays, these winter festivals offer a variety of experiences that make the cold season something to look forward to.