Seasonal Activities Coming to U/D

The seasons are changing, and winter will soon be coming to U/D. Whether you love or hate the snowy season, there is lots to do at University District over the next few months!

Coming up in U/D

Skating at Central Commons Park 

Enjoy a winter classic this season with skating at Central Commons Park. Central Commons Park offers a picturesque outdoor skating experience nestled at the heart of U/D. With its refrigerated rink and festive lights, it’s the perfect spot for a romantic evening skate or a family outing. Central Commons Park ice rink is open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.. Stay tuned for the 2023 opening details. For more information on Central Commons Park, please visit the U/D website.

University District Night Market – Holiday Edition

Mark your calendars! A summer favourite, the U/D Night Market, is back with a festive twist. Join us on Nov. 30 and Dec. 7 for the U/D Night Market – Holiday Edition, where you can explore an array of seasonal delights! Discover a unique curated selection of over 35 local artisans while enjoying the twinkling lights of U/D and entertainment. It’s a perfect way to get into the holiday spirit, spend time with friends, and hunt down some holiday treasures. The Night Market – Holiday Edition is free to attend and runs from. Hours of operation are 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Nov. 30 and Dec. 7. For more information, visit this link. 

Check out these events around U/D

Spooky Mini Golf  at Winsport 

Happening from Thursday-Sunday until Oct. 31, Winsport is inviting people and their families to get into the Halloween spirit and dress up in their favourite costumes for mini golf. Winsport has transformed their intermediate 18-hole mini golf course into a Halloween extravaganza suitable for all ages.

The course takes approximately 60 minutes to complete. For more information and tickets, visit this link. 

Oval After Dark at the Olympic Oval

Prepare for an eerie evening as the Olympic Oval undergoes a terrifying transformation for its 3rd annual Oval After Dark event on Thursday, October 26, 2023, from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.. This isn’t your average Halloween celebration; it’s a chilling and thrilling experience for those who crave a fright. The Oval invites you to skate, but beware, for it’s a night designed to test your courage. Expect a night filled with bone-chilling surprises, ghastly sights, and the opportunity to skate with other daring souls. For those brave enough to book, click here for more information.

Christmas Craft Sale at Varsity Community Centre

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with a visit to the Varsity Community Centre’s Christmas Craft Sale! This event will feature over 45 local vendors showcasing handmade jewellery, woodcrafts, knitting, crocheting, home décor, artwork and so much more! The Christmas Craft Sale will be held on Nov. 17 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Nov. 18 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Don’t miss this perfect opportunity to support local businesses, find the perfect gifts and get in the holiday spirit. For more information, please visit the Varsity Community Centre website.

Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing at Confederation Golf Course

Embrace the tranquillity of winter by exploring the scenic trails at Confederation Golf Course. Strap on your cross-country skis or snowshoes and venture into a snowy wonderland. It’s a peaceful and refreshing way to connect with nature during the winter months. If you don’t have the equipment, don’t worry! Rentals are available at Sports Rent. To check trail statuses and for additional details, please visit the City of Calgary’s website. 

While you are there, don’t miss the Lions Festival of Lights, which opens on November 25 at 6 p.m., and then nightly from 5:30 p.m. to midnight until January 8, 2024. For more details, visit the Lions Festival of Lights website This dazzling display of holiday lights and decorations is sure to set your holiday spirit alight!

Tobogganing in St. Andrews Heights at 2504 13th Ave. N.W.

Are you seeking a fun, free and frosty snow day? Grab your magic carpets, sleds and GT Snow Racers and head to the city-maintained tobogganing hill at 2504 13th Ave. N.W. in St. Andrews Heights. Tobogganing offers an exhilarating way to get outside with loved ones without spending a dime—what could be better? The tobogganing hill in St. Andrew Heights is the perfect location for endless thrills and unforgettable memories this winter. More information on the St. Andrews Heights tobogganing hill can be found on the City of Calgary’s website. 

Ice Biking at Bowness Park

For a truly unique winter experience, try renting an ice bike at Bowness Park! Ice biking is a fun alternative to skating, suitable for all ages and skill levels. What is an ice bike? Imagine a bicycle mounted to a base, with the front wheel replaced with skates and the back wheel surrounded by skates. Thanks to its broad base, no balancing skills are necessary! Just pedal and steer like riding a standard bike. Ice bikes can be rented from the Skate Shop for $12/half-hour or $20/hour. For more information on ice biking, check out the City of Calgary’s website. 

Winter is a magical time in and around University District, with a wide range of activities and events to make the most of the snowy season. So, bundle up, gather your friends and family, and make the most of the winter wonderland!