Looking to rekindle (or awaken!) your Nordic spirit? From iconic celebrations to magical winter wonderlands, Canada’s 2025 winter festival lineup has something for everyone. Whether you’re into dog sledding, reimagined winter sports, or exploring breathtaking ice palaces, these festivals are sure to ignite your love for the season.
"Igloofest in Montreal, Quebec
Dates: 18 January to 10 February 2025
Turn Montreal’s Old Port into an icy dance floor at Igloofest! This weekend outdoor festival with top DJs invites revelers to pull out their wildest winter outfits (think neon ’80s ski suits) and brave the cold for a night of unbeatable vibes.
Whether you’re an electronic music lover or just looking for an unforgettable night under the stars, Igloofest guarantees a unique experience where the heat of the party takes the chill out of winter.
For families: Quebec Winter Carnival with Bonhomme, Quebec
Dates: 26 January to 11 February 2025
The Carnaval de Québec is the ultimate family winter tradition! Follow the Bonhomme Carnival through the historic cobblestone streets of Old Quebec and take part in festivities that are more than a century old. Enjoy ice canoe races, impressive snow sculptures, thrilling ice slides, whimsical night parades, and the world’s largest snowball fight!
Parents can enjoy traditional French Canadian traditional food and maple treats at the Sugar Shack, while children enjoy interactive activities throughout the carnival. The Quebec Winter Carnival is one of the biggest winter festivals in the world and promises to be an unforgettable experience—as long as you’re dressed for the occasion!
For winter fun: Winterlude in Ottawa, Ontario
Dates: 2 to 19 February 2025
February in Ottawa wouldn’t be complete without Winterlude! This annual festival celebrates the joys of winter on the frozen Rideau Canal—the world’s largest free outdoor natural ice rink. See intricate ice sculptures, enjoy family activities in the giant Snowflake Kingdom play area and warm up with hot cocoa.
In the evening, Confederation Park lights up with dazzling displays showcasing Canada’s cultural diversity, including works by local Indigenous artists.
For a taste of Métis culture: Festival du Voyageur in Winnipeg, Manitoba
Dates: 16 to 25 February 2025
Winnipeg celebrates Manitoba’s Indigenous culture and pioneer history at the Festival du Voyageur, the largest Francophone event in Western Canada. Immerse yourself in a world of immersive activities: five stages of live music, snow sculptures, folk dancing, portage races and traditional campfires. The highlight? A reconstruction of an 1815 fort at the Fort Gibraltar Heritage Site, bringing the fur trade era back to life.
An all-in cultural experience, this festival lets you explore the traditions of Francophone and Indigenous artists first-hand.
For craft beer lovers: Toronto’s Roundhouse Craft Beer Fest, Ontario
Dates: 17 and 18 February 2025
For a winter adventure in Toronto, head to the Roundhouse Craft Beer Fest in the heart of downtown. This festival brings together Ontario’s finest craft brewers, each serving their creations in an inviting outdoor setting. With over 40 beers to sample, food trucks and an après-ski vibe, this event is perfect for anyone looking to sample the best of Canada’s craft beer scene in a unique, frosty setting.
For the awe-inspired: Montreal en Lumière, Quebec
Dates: 22 February to 4 March 2025
Immerse yourself in the luminous wonder of Montreal en Lumière! This festival brings creativity to life with visual art installations, musical performances, theatre and circus arts in the heart of Montreal’s Quartier des Spectacles. Foodies will love the special menus created by international chefs, while art lovers can enjoy Nuit Blanche, a free marathon of art and culture that keeps the city alive until dawn with nearly 200 activities. Don’t miss the illuminated Ferris wheel or the giant ice slide that attracts thousands every year.
For spring ski fans: Whistler’s World Ski & Snowboard Festival, British Columbia
Dates: 6 to 15 April 2025
Whistler transforms into one giant playground for the World Ski & Snowboard Festival. Watch elite athletes compete in the World Skiing Invitational and AFP World Championships, attracting top pros and enthusiasts from around the world right here in British Columbia. But it’s not all sport! Whistler Blackcomb is transformed into an open-air venue with concerts, art performances and interactive workshops for all ages."
Cover photo credit: Stéphan Poulin/Bonjour Québec
Source: https://experience.transat.com/canada-winter-festivals/