February 1
The Big Paint Workshop is part of Strathcona’s Support Local Campaign. On February 1 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., you can take part in the workshop with your family and friends and learn a brand new skill. Decorate a tray using chalk paint with Annie Sloane. The tray will brighten up your home and can make an amazing gift, too.
February 1 – 7
Honestly, is there anything better than poutine? Make your way around the city as you search for the best poutine Edmonton has to offer, from February 1 to 7. Although it’s hard to beat the classic combination of cheese and gravy, we dare you to try some of the other ambitious flavours like the Animal Style poutine from Central Social Hall or the Perogy poutine from 1st RND.
Saturdays & Sundays
Replenish your pantry at the Downtown Farmers’ Market, and enjoy fresh produce, locally raised meats and ready-to-eat meals. The market is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays.
February 4
The Grindstone Theatre has been making waves online with its comedy skits. But did you know you can also take a class with the cast? Polish up your comedic talents with some of the funniest people in the city. The winter term for the drama classes begins on February 4.
February 4
Join the experts from Beaverhill Bird Observatory to learn about owls on February 4 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Learn what owl species live near you and what they eat. Ed’s favourite owl fact is that a group of owls is called parliament.
February 5 – 14
Nothing could keep the Deep Freeze: A Byzantine Winter Festival from happening. This year, from February 5 to 14, the winter wonderland will be spread out across seven Alberta Avenue community leagues, as well as at Borden Park. Grab your winter wear, a mask and enjoy a socially distanced festival that is part of Edmonton history.
Streaming anytime
You can’t visit the theatre but Canadian classic, Mary’s Wedding, is available to stream online. The story explores a love like no other the moves from Alberta’s prairies to First World War battlegrounds. And on Valentine’s Day weekend, the theatre is holding a fundraiser performance filled with love songs.
February 5 – 27
Head over to the Alberta Council for the Ukrainian Arts (ACUA) for a new exhibition featuring Elena Scharabun and Svitlana Kravchuk. Scharabun is a fibre artist, working primarily with threads and fabrics, sewing them into something new. Kravchuk brings the traditional to the modern by deconstructing concepts of folk traditional and social trauma. The exhibition opens on February 5.
February 6 & 7
The Chinese New Year marks the beginning of the new year on the lunar calendar. The holiday is generally celebrated in a large group with family and friends. However this year, consider having a virtual celebration. For your banquet, try the seven lucky foods for their symbolic meanings: fish (prosperity), dumplings and spring rolls (wealth), good fortune fruit (fullness), rice cakes (high income/position), noodles (happiness/ longevity) and sweet rice balls (family togetherness). Kingsway’s virtual Lunar New Year Celebration takes place on February 6 and 7 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Remember NOT to clean your home on New Year’s Day (February 12), as superstition has it that you’ll sweep away all your good fortune.
February 7
Get outside and get active with a snowshoeing session at the Biodiversity Trail in Beaver Hills on February 7. Choose from a guided or at-your-own pace exploration of the 1.9 loop trail. Pre-registration and masks are required for this free winter event.
February 7 – 14
Running is a great activity, but if, like Ed, you’re not an avid runner and need an incentive, then this race is for you. Ed’s favourite type of running is while holding a tub of ice cream in the summer (the trick is to get home before the ice cream melts away). But the Dine and Dash Race has gone virtual. You have the luxury of running either the 10k, half marathon or a full marathon at your own time. And after, you get to celebrate your run with delicious post-run meals by amazing local restaurants. You have until February 6 to register and you can complete your race at any time from February 7 to 14.
February 12 – 21
With restrictions in place, the skiing festival has gone online from February 12 to 21. Register online to participate in the festival. You can ski, skate, cycle, run, snowshoe or walk in the 4, 8, 13, 31 or 55 kilometre events. Compete against thousands of people around to world for a chance to win a cross country ski weekend in the Rockies (take that trip when we can, well, travel again) and much more.
February 12 – 28
Edmonton’s longest running winter festival is back at Hawrelak Park this month, from February 12 to 28. You can skate a little, make a snow angel, have a snowball fight, or walk through the park and enjoy the public art. Either way, this festival is sure to ignite your love for winter.
Check schedule for dates
Cooking is a great way to de-stress, and the results are always yummy. If you’re looking for new recipes to try, downtown culinary school Get Cooking has virtual classes. With these classes, you have the option to either follow along with the chefs or take notes and cook at your own pace.
February 13
Can you feel the love tonight? Watch the King and Queen of Hearts Pageant as contestants perform for the crown on February 13 at 7 p.m. There will also be performances from previous title holders and other community members. Or sign up to compete yourself and put those Tik Tok dance moves to use!
February 13 – 14
Clay painting is a great way to get your creative juices flowing, and cupcakes make it even better. Book a time slot at Clay and Cupcakes from February 13 to 14 for a romantic painting date with your partner.
February 13 – 21
With Family Day coming up, what better way to celebrate it than with the Cold or Cozy Show from February 13 to February 21. Spend the day outside doing your favourite winter activities with your family, and then warm up with some board games, puzzles, movies and toys.
February 13 – 28
This winter, patios in Strathcona and downtown are playing host to Ice on Whyte Festival until February 6. The sculptures are part of a self-guided tour. You could also combine the sculpture tour with a food tour for a day that will entice your palate and your eyes from February 13 to 28.
February 14
Ah, Valentine’s day. This year’s might be a little different, but let’s break the pattern shall we? If you live with your partner, cook your favourite three-course dinner together. Or order take-out from your favourite local restaurant. Wear your favourite, most expensive outfit, do your hair and make-up, and get ready for your date. If you are unable to see your partner in person, order the same meals for a Zoom date. And remember to get something chocolate for dessert, too.
Sundays
Are you getting your steps in this winter? If not, maybe join a hiking group on Sundays. It’s a great way to stay active, and there’s no running at all. And there’s a new hike every time you go.
February 15 – 20
Twin Park’s Annual Winter Carnival is held online this year from February 15 to 20, all day long. Join the bingo game or online crafting before heading out for the scavenger hunt and hot chocolate.
February 20
If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, the Market Off Whyte on February 20 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. is the place for you. The crafts market features local craftspeople and artists, each with their own unique styles.
Check schedule for dates
There are tons of art programs available in the city for all ages and abilities. So find your niche, and get crafting!
February 26
The Evolution Wonderlounge is hosting an all trans and non-binary show, Metamorphosis, on February 26 at 7:30 p.m. All proceeds from the show go to Camp Dragonfly. Although the in-person seating is limited, you can still watch the show online.
February 26 – 28
Crystals are going through a boom right now. There’s a (totally unscientific) belief is that if you have a problem, chances are that there’s a crystal that can help you. From February 26 to 28, the Gems, Rocks and Crystals Show has crystal grid forms, salt lamps and anything else you might need for your crystal collection.
