U/D’s Winter Pop-Ups are back and will take place on January 28, 2024 and February 18, 2024 from 1 – 4 p.m. Enjoy free outdoor winter fun with an exciting array of entertainment, music and activities for all ages. Read on to find the fun to be had at each event!
Everything to Expect at the January 28 Winter Pop-Up:
Live Ice Carving Demonstrations
Experience the magic of winter with live ice carving demonstrations by Julian Lee, a skilled professional styrofoam, clay, stone, wood and ice visual artist. The average ice sculpture can take four to six days to complete, but watch as Julian transforms large blocks of ice into stunning sculptures right before your eyes! This is an educational and exciting must-see for all ages this winter! To see some of Julian’s amazing past creations, visit his website here.
Observe live ice carving demonstrations on January 28 from 1 – 4 p.m. at U/D’s Winter Pop-Ups.
Free S’mores Kits
Gather around and warm up at the Winter Pop-Up at the wood-burning fire pit with complimentary s’mores kits for roasting (while quantities last). Not to be confused with the fire features in place at Central Commons Park, this wood-burning fire pit is the ultimate s’more cooking station, brought in specifically for the Winter Pop-Up events. Roast your marshmallows to perfection and enjoy this classic treat with your friends and family. The free s’mores kits are only available while quantities last, so be sure to indulge early and don’t miss out on this tasty treat!
DJ GOODBAR at the Central Commons Park Pavilion
Anticipate a high-energy and fun afternoon with talented local musician DJ GOODBAR at U/D’s Winter Pop-Ups. DJ GOODBAR will be elevating the atmosphere and creating the ultimate winter soundtrack live at University District. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you skate around the rink and enjoy local music that sets the mood for dancing, skating and more! Find DJ GOODBAR on Instagram @djgoodbar.
Everything to Expect at the February 18 Winter Pop-Up:
Free S’mores Kits
Sure to be a crowd favourite, the s’mores kits (while quantities last) will return for the February U/D Winter Pop-Up! Whether you missed the January Pop-Up or you couldn’t resist coming back for more, s’mores are the perfect sweet treat for a wintery Sunday afternoon!
Sledge Hockey Demonstration
U/D retailer AdaptAbility and The Straz Strong Foundation, founded by former Humbolt Bronco and adaptive athlete Ryan Straschnitzki, have joined forces for an interactive sledge hockey demonstration at U/D’s February Winter Pop-Up! Join us for the unique opportunity to try your hand at maneuvering a sledge, a specialized sled mounted on two runners used in sledge hockey! This demonstration is a fun and educational opportunity to learn about sledge hockey and the importance of adaptive sports.
Skating at Central Commons Park
No matter which U/D Winter Pop-Up you attend, be sure to bring your skates and enjoy a winter day at University District’s Central Commons Park outdoor ice rink. Skating is the perfect way to finish the afternoon as the sun goes down on U/D’s Winter Pop-ups, but the University District ice rink is open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., so the fun can continue even after the event concludes!
Enjoy ice skating with friends and family at University District’s Central Commons Park.
Enjoying U/D’s Winter Pop-Up events is easy to do, with the convenience of free heated underground parking. University District offers free two-hour surface lots and a free three-hour heated underground parkade (entrances are beside Save-On-Foods and Staples). License plates must be registered at one of the Calgary Parking Authority machines located at each lot and in the parkade.
After The Pop-Up
Wrap up your day at U/D’s Winter Pop-Ups by exploring the Sunday specials at University District’s restaurants surrounding Central Commons Park. If you’re hoping to warm up with a hearty meal, check out Borough Bar and Grill’s prime rib dinner starting every Sunday at 5 p.m. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, enjoy 69 cent wings all day every Sunday at The Canadian Brewhouse. To keep the good times rolling, head to The Banquet for bowling, games and $9.99 pizza Sundays, or visit one of the many other dining establishments on University Avenue.
Other Upcoming Events:
On February 17, 2024 from 12 – 5 p.m., visit University District as we celebrate the launch of our newest builder, Jayman BUILT. Jayman is officially launching Magna, a new luxury concrete-built condo building where residents can enjoy premium finishes and amenities that complement easy living. You can learn more about this development at the public builder launch event at the University District Discovery Centre (4410 University Ave NW) next month.
For more information about all of U/D’s upcoming events, visit this link.
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