February Events in Edmonton: Snowshoeing, Festivals & More! [2023]

February is a busy time of year in Edmonton! If you're looking for something to do in the middle of winter, here's a list of four events happening locally, from snowshoeing to music festivals.

Snowshoe & Stargaze

Two activities unique to Edmonton winters are celebrated in this February event, Snowshoe and Stargaze. Part of Elk Island National Park's Dark Sky Experiences, this unique event takes place on Saturday evenings throughout January and February. 

The event starts with a short park interpreter-led snowshoe hike around Astotin Lake, then attendees gather around a campfire as the interpreter talks about different constellations and how to use them to navigate. The park is part of the Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve, so the night sky is exceptionally dark and clear.

Snowshoes and red-light headlamps are included in the sign-up cost of the event. Participants should dress appropriately in warm layers with snow pants and boots.

• February Dates: Saturdays 2/4, 2/11, and 2/18
• Location: Elk Island National Park, 54401 Range Rd 203, Fort Saskatchewan, AB T8L 0V3

International Festival of Winter Cinema

Not only does the International Festival of Winter Cinema (IFWC) take place during winter, but the entire event centers around winter-themed films. Think of mountains, snow sports, winter weather, culture, and more. The IFWC is part of the Silver Skate Festival, one of the best Edmonton winter festivals, and holds the honour of being "the world's only free outdoor winter film festival."

The 2023 event is free to attend. Best of all, the films are shown on a unique giant snow screen, which is exactly what it sounds like: a movie screen made from snow! There will be numerous fire pits, hot cocoa and coffee available for purchase, and attendees are encouraged to bring blankets.

• Date: February 10–19, 2023
• Location: Hawrelak Park, 9330 Groat Rd NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 2A8 

Edmonton Oilers Hockey Games

One thing Edmonton is especially well-known for is supporting its hometown sports teams—especially the Oilers, the local NHL team. For those who may not know, hockey legend Wayne Gretzky played for the Oilers, leading the team to an impressive three Stanley Cup victories in the 1980s. Throughout February, there are four Oilers home games when fans have the opportunity to experience the action and excitement firsthand. 

Regardless of who the visiting team is, the atmosphere inside the Oilers' home arena, Rogers Place, is renowned for being loud and lively. Aside from watching the action on the ice, Rogers Place also has various concessions, merchandise, music, and other forms of entertainment throughout the game.

The cost of attending an Oilers game generally ranges from $50 to $200 per ticket. However, this varies depending on several factors, including the seating section, opponent, and day of the week.

• Dates: 2/15, 2/17, 2/21, and 2/27
• Location: Rogers Place, ICE District, 10220 104 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 0H6

Edmonton Blues Society Winter Blues Festival

The non-profit Edmonton Blues Society (EBS), whose mission is "to be referred to as 'The heartbeat of a vibrant blues community'," hosts the annual Winter Blues Festival every February. Essentially a giant celebration of Edmonton's blues music scene, the festival features a wide range of local and international blues musicians and bands. In addition to several live performances, the Winter Blues Festival also features a humongous dance floor and food and drink vendors. This event is cash only, and there is no ATM available onsite. 

This year's Winter Blues Festival will be held at St. Basil's Cultural Centre on February 25th, and tickets range from $40 to $45. EBS members get an additional discount, and groups can purchase private tables.

• Date: February 25, 2023
• Location: St. Basil's Cultural Centre, 10819 71 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 0X8

Enjoy Edmonton This February

Edmonton in February is an exciting, fun-filled time. Some of Edmonton's most beloved and well-known events are held during winter when the city is blanketed in snow. Here, you'll never run out of things to do and see, even when it's freezing out. Pick an event that fits into your schedule, and take part in what Edmonton has to offer this month!