Grande North Winter Festival 2026 goes Jan. 9-11

Jan 2, 2026 | 7:00 AM

Grande Prairie’s annual winter event returns next week.

The Grande North Winter Festival will transform multiple downtown locations into a winter playground filled with attractions like live entertainment, winter sports, and ice sculptures.

“Winter has always been part of who we are as a northern community, and the Grande North Winter Festival shows how much we can enjoy the season when we experience it together,” said City of Grande Prairie Mayor, Jackie Clayton. “This festival brings people outdoors, supports local partners, sparks economic activity and strengthens the connections that make Grande Prairie such an energetic and welcoming place to live.”

This year’s festival features:

The Acoustic Cabin and Ice Bar at Bonnetts Energy Centre featuring live music, entertainment and winter cooking demos with local chefs, creating a warm and lively gathering place throughout the weekend.
Aquatera Ice Slides at the Montrose Cultural Centre, a favourite for families and thrill -seekers looking for classic winter fun.
TC Energy Ice Carving, where visitors can watch skilled carvers transform blocks of ice into stunning works of art.
Chippers Ice Carving Lessons, offering hands -on opportunities to try carving with guidance from local experts. Sponsored by Frontier Mitsubishi.
Canadian Tire Skating Oval, giving skaters of all ages a chance to enjoy a smooth, outdoor loop in the heart of the festival.
Ortho 101 Crokicurl, blending curling and crokinole into an easy and entertaining winter game for all skill levels .

The Grande North Winter Festival goes Jan. 9-11.

by Nathaniel Leigh