Canadian Ice Climbing Festivals to Start 2023
From coast to coast, there are plenty of opportunities to participate in an ice climbing event before spring
Photo by: Tim Banfield
Canada’s ice climbing communities have a long tradition of hosting events, and after a few years of organizers struggling to bring people together, it seems things are back to normal.
Festiglace: As Quebec’s premier winter event, this festival draws climbers from around North America. It takes place at the amazing Pont Rouge from Feb. 17 to 19. For more info visit here.
Southern Ontario Ice Fest: This popular event is going into its eighth year and will take place from Feb. 10 to 12. Climbers will meet up at a fun outdoor area before coming together for a night of presentations. See here for more info.
Nipigon Ice Fest: This is one of Canada’s longest running events, which takes place on the north shore of Lake Superior in the town of Nipigon. Ice climbers can enjoy steep routes in Orient Bay and Kama Bay. The festival begins on March 4. For more info visit here.
Lillooet Ice Fest: This is a relatively new event which started before the pandemic. Ice climbers can celebrate local routes during the day while watching presentations at night in Lillooet. It will take place from Jan. 20 to 22. For more info visit here.
Laclu Ice Fest: On March 11 and 12, this Manitoba event will be taking place for its second year. Organized by Alpine Club of Canada Manitoba and Club d-Escalade de Saint -Boniface, you can find more info here.
YEG Snow and Ice Fest: This Edmonton event will take place on an artificial ice climbing wall in the city on Feb. 11. “Edmonton’s first winter recreation festival centred around an urban ice-climbing wall,” per the Alpine Club of Canada. More information below.
Nova Scotia Ice Fest: This event is still in the works, but it sounds like it will take place in February. Follow along here for more info.
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