Welcome to winter in Fort McMurray!
Winter in Fort McMurray is a simple reality, where snow arrives early and stays for many months. The northern lights playing in the starry sky above drifts of sparkling snow is a sight locals know and love. Winter sports enthusiasts are often drawn to our city because of the opportunities for snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and skiing.
Did You Know… The coldest temperature ever recorded in Fort McMurray was -53.3°C (-64°F) on December 31, 1933!
Because the winters are so long here, Fort McMurrayites plan many festivals and fun activities for the colder months. Here’s our roundup of the best winter activities in Fort McMurray this year.
The Craze Presented By Syncrude
December 31, 2019
This family-friendly event allows you to ring in the new year (and the new decade!) with your little ones. Held on MacDonald Island Park, the party runs from 12 noon to 5 pm and has a variety of fun events plus live entertainment. Don’t miss the “meet & greet” with Paw Patrol’s Skye and Chase!
https://www.macdonaldisland.ca/events/craze
Diamonds & Denim New Year’s
December 31, 2019
For a more adult New Year’s party, pick up tickets to the Royal Canadian Legion’s gala. Dress up your favourite pair of jeans with your glitziest jewelry or sparkliest cowboy shirt, and dance the night away to live music by Old Skool. Dinner is at 7 pm and the band starts at 9 pm. Call 780-743-2329 to purchase tickets.
https://www.rmwb.ca/living/Events-and-Festivals/Community-Calendar.htm#/?i=1
Quality Hotel New Year’s Eve Celebration
December 31, 2019
Ring in the new year with a jazzy, mardi gras-themed party! This adults-only bash features a photo booth, champagne reception, and dinner, plus live tunes from Dan Gillies as well as Friends of Jack. Treat yourself by booking a suite at the Quality Hotel, and you can retire to your room once the ball drops.
Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour
January 9-10, 2020
The Banff Centre’s Mountain Film Festival travels to Fort McMurray in January, featuring a selection of environmental, action, and adventure films from the festival. The tour stops for two days at Keyano College to show award-winning and audience favourite films showcasing the mountain world, with different films shown every night.
https://maccalendar.ca/event/banff-centre-mountain-film-festival-world-tour-2/?instance_id=111103
Skiing At Vista Ridge
Closed Christmas Day & New Year’s Day
Vista Ridge is open for the season! Season passes are on sale, and many runs (including the Syncrude Terrain Park and the Beginner’s Area) are now open. The Tube Park is set to open later in the season. For hours, ski conditions, and lesson information, call 780-799-SNOW.
http://vistaridge.ab.ca/about/hours/
Happy Holidays from Coldwell Banker United
Colin Hartigan and all the agents at Coldwell Banker United would like to thank the clients who made 2019 such a great year. We extend warmest wishes from our homes to yours, and hope that the new year brings peace, joy, and comfort to all. Happy holidays from Coldwell Banker United!