Deep Freeze Festival 2026: Embracing Winter's Magic on Alberta Avenue

Edmonton's winter landscape is set to transform as the Deep Freeze: A Byzantine Winter Festival returns to the Alberta Avenue District on January 17 and 18, 2026.

This annual event celebrates the Olde New Year by blending timeless traditions with contemporary creativity, offering a unique experience that captures the beauty of winter and the spirit of community.

Festival-goers can immerse themselves in the vibrant cultures that make up the fabric of the Alberta Avenue District, including Ukrainian, French Canadian, Franco African, Indigenous (Métis, Inuit, Cree), Latin American, and Asian influences.

Wander through the event to discover artistic creations, a homestead village, and musical celebrations that will delight your senses with music, art, and delectable treats.

One of the festival's highlights is the Pipon Village, where visitors can try on snowshoes, roast bannock over an open fire, and enjoy rich cultural storytelling passed down through generations.

For those seeking excitement, the Deep Freezer Races offer a thrilling spectacle, while live performances showcase music, dance, and storytelling that reflect the heritage and artistry of Edmonton's diverse communities.

Art enthusiasts will marvel at intricate ice sculptures and installations that celebrate the beauty and resilience of the season.

Embrace moments of connection as you sip hot cocoa, roast hotdogs over open flames, or explore artistic creations that capture the essence of winter.

Deep Freeze offers a heartfelt way to mark the Olde New Year by bringing people together in celebration of creativity, culture, and community.

The festival is scheduled to take place on January 17 from 12 pm to 10 pm and January 18 from 12 pm to 6 pm, along 118 Avenue between 90 and 95 Street.

Admission is free, with donations gratefully accepted.

In addition to the festival's attractions, the Alberta Avenue District has seen significant developments in recent years.

The Alberta Avenue Business Association represents over 250 businesses along 118th Avenue, offering a wide array of stores and services.

These businesses are a mosaic of people who take pride in their family-owned cafes, service shops, food markets, restaurants, and retail shops.

Recent initiatives, such as the expansion of the Alberta Avenue Business Improvement Area, have provided financial support to local businesses, enhancing the vibrancy and appeal of the district.

For instance, La French Taste, a French bakery owned by Anthony Cucchiara, has benefited from these programs, allowing for renovations and increased accessibility.

Community efforts like the We Believe in 118 coalition have also contributed to making Alberta Avenue a safer and more inviting place to live, play, and do business.

These initiatives aim to increase business communication and collaboration, fostering a strong sense of community.

As you plan your visit to the Deep Freeze Festival, take the opportunity to explore the Alberta Avenue District's diverse offerings.

From unique dining experiences to local art galleries, the area provides a rich cultural tapestry that complements the festival's celebrations.

For more information about the festival and its schedule, visit the official Deep Freeze Festival website.

Come celebrate winter, tradition, and the Olde New Year at Deep Freeze: A Byzantine Winter Festival—where art and culture shine in the heart of Edmonton.