Cold weather doesn’t mean staying indoors, because January in Alberta is packed with events, festivals, and performances that make the winter months feel anything but quiet. From snowy mountain adventures to world-class theatre and music, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this month.
Embrace the Mountains
Get ready to embrace winter in the Canadian Rockies this January! In the northern region of the province, check out the Jasper in January Festival. The event, which runs from Jan. 16 to Feb. 1, transforms the town into a snowy playground with something for everyone. Some highlights include winter activities like skiing, sleighrides and snowshoeing. A poutine showdown will get the foodies pumped up, while those who live and breathe Canada’s favourite sport can enjoy some lively pond hockey tournaments.
Meanwhile, Banff and Lake Louise celebrate winter with SnowDays from Jan. 16 to Feb. 8, which features larger‑than‑life snow sculptures, incredible ice art installations, and lots of family-friendly activities. Visitors can stroll through festive streets, enjoy outdoor games, and even watch some skijoring exhibitions on Jan. 18 and 19, where expert skiers are pulled behind horses, showing off tricks and delivering a truly unique mountain town experience.
And if you’re planning to head to Banff, Lake Louise or Jasper for a winter getaway, AMA members save 15% on two-night stays plus receive a $50 dining credit at participating Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.
Visit the Moulin Rouge
Broadway Across Canada’s Moulin Rouge! The Musical is coming to Alberta this January, bringing the “spectacular spectacular” show to both Calgary and Edmonton. The love story of Christian and Satine, featuring famous pop songs from the last century, visits Calgary’s Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium from Jan. 6 to 11, then heads to Edmonton’s Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium Jan. 13 to 18. This tour even features Canadian performers! And remember, AMA members save up to 20% off Broadway Across Canada tickets purchased online, plus receive a drink voucher for the day of the show! (Some restrictions apply.)
High Performance Rodeo
Calgary’s vibrant arts and performance scene will be on display during the High Performance Rodeo Jan. 13 to 31, a winter showcase of theatre, dance, music, film and performance art across multiple venues. The Rodeo is known for championing bold ideas and newer voices in the arts scene, making it a hub for artists and audiences who want to experience something unexpected.
Winterruption YEG
And Edmontonians won’t be left behind when it comes to creativity, energy, and a reason to get out of the house. From Jan. 21 to 25, Winterruption YEG is a music festival that offers an exciting, choose-your-own-adventure-type lineup that keeps Edmonton warm long after the sun goes down. Downtown venues host live music, comedy, theatre, drag, performance art, workshops, and immersive cultural experiences – and there are even all-access wristbands available so you can hit up as many shows as you can.
Explore the Music of Hans Zimmer
For film lovers and symphony fans alike, the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra presents what is sure to be an immersive night with The Music of Hans Zimmer.The Philharmonic are expected to play through some of the most iconic scores by Grammy and Academy Award-winning composer Hans Zimmer, featuring music from blockbuster films like Dune, Interstellar, Pirates of the Caribbean and The Dark Knight. Shows take place Jan. 16 and 17 at the Jack Singer Concert Hall, and AMA members save 15% on online or phone ticket orders for Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra shows.
Alberta’s Best Curlers Compete
This year, the Alberta’s men’s and women’s provincial curling finals will be taking place at one big tournament in Okotoks from Jan. 5 to 11. The event features a week of high-level competition, with all the teams looking to take on not only provincial glory, but also the coveted right to represent Alberta at the 2026 Montana Brier and Scotties Tournament of Hearts.