February is full of local events and activities Calgarians can take part in regardless of the weather. With the Family Day weekend and Valentine’s Day also taking place during this month, these activities are a great way to celebrate while staying safe.
YYC Hot Chocolate Fest
When: February 1 – 28, 2021
Where: Various cafes and restaurants in Calgary
The annual YYC Hot Chocolate Fest in support of Calgary Meals on Wheels is back again in 2021. Calgarians are invited to sample hot chocolate from restaurants and cafés throughout the city to support the local charity as well as local businesses. Those interested in tasting some of the entries for 2021 are encouraged to visit each vendor’s website for the most up-to-date hours and follow all health restrictions and guidelines. Participating vendors this year include cafes like Vendome, Euphoria and Hexagon Cafe as well as restaurants like The Coup, Lina’s Italian Market and Cravings Market Restaurant.
Chinook Blast
When: February 11 – 28, 2021
Where: Chinook Blast Hub and various locations around Calgary
2021 marks the inaugural year for Chinook Blast, a city-wide outdoor winter festival that encourages Calgarians to brave the winter weather and take advantage of the chinook days our city is known for. Through a display of socially distanced, outdoor displays and attractions, visitors can safely take part in the individual activities and events taking place at the Chinook Blast Hub in an outdoor park, or at any of the event partner sites throughout the city. Outdoor patios will have fires available for visitors to warm up at, outdoor art and light installations will be available to view, walking tours will be offered at unique locations, and more. Interested participants are encouraged to visit the event website for the most up-to-date details and COVID-19 guidelines.
Family Fishing Weekend
When: February 13 – 15, 2021
Where: Various stocked lakes around Calgary (see map here)
Twice a year, Albertans are welcome to try fishing without purchasing a sportfishing license – during the Family Day weekend in February, and during the second week of July after Canada Day. Fishing can be a great activity for the whole family to enjoy, regardless of experience or skill-level. While a license isn’t required for fishers during this weekend, it is important to remember that all regular fishing regulations are still in effect. Fishing also isn’t available for free in National Parks, so be sure to visit the link here and this map of stocked lakes to find an available spot to fish close to Calgary. To get children even more engaged in this activity, the My Wild Alberta has also put together a GoFISH! challenge online to help teach people about responsible angling.
Virtual Locked Library
When: February 14, 2021
Where: Online
Calgary’s popular Locked Library event is back – this time virtually! Purchase tickets in advance and complete the virtual adventure game at any time between 12:00 p.m. and 11:59 p.m. The theme for this event is “Secret Agent” and will take participants approximately two hours to complete a series of clues and activities to complete the secret mission. Participants will need to have access to a laptop, computer or tablet with internet connection. The game is designed to be able to play on your own or virtually with family and friends over a video or phone call. One $42 ticket provides an Access Pass for one screen, so there are no end of options for how to safely play with other family and friends. Visit the event website for more details on how to play.
Snowshoeing Clinic
When: Every Friday (snow dependent)
Where: Bow Habitat Station
Ever wanted to learn how to properly snowshoe? Adults and children are welcome to try out this classic winter sport, perfect for all experience and skill levels, on the trails at Pearce Estate Park. Registration for the clinic is $11 + GST per person and is required in advance and can be done online or over the phone at 403-297-6561. The snowshoeing lessons are available every Friday, so long as there is enough snow on the ground. Times are available from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. For larger groups, private lessons are available. Snowshoes can also be rented for those interesting in exploring the trails and wildlife on their own for $6 a pair.
