Your Travel Guide for Exploring Peace River, Alberta this Winter
Nestled in the heart of Alberta, Peace River emerges as a hidden gem that truly comes alive during the winter season. This picturesque region transforms into a winter wonderland filled with a unique blend of events, experiences, and festivals. To help plan your next adventure, we’re bringing you a winter travel guide packed with all the best Peace River events!
Annual Holiday Events
If you choose to spend the holiday season in Peace River, you’ll be delighted to find a diverse array of annual festivities you and your family can enjoy to make it an extra special Christmas.
Every year, the town of Grimshaw puts on an amazing Christmas parade, including a special tree light-up ceremony and a Chamber Polar Express. There are so many festive floats to see and of course, a chance to wave at the one and only - Santa Claus!
If you love shopping for the perfect Christmas gift, the Peace River Farmers Market holds many Christmas Markets during the holiday season. Here, you’ll be able to browse a wide range of local products such as hand-crafted jewelry, home decor, and even sweet treats like locally sourced honey.
Last but not least, Lac Cardinal Regional Pioneer Village Museum hosts an annual Old Fashioned Family Christmas Event. This family-friendly event is completely free and includes horse-drawn sleigh rides, caroling, craft activities, dog sled rides, snowshoeing, and delicious cookies and hot chocolate!
Carnaval de St. Isidore
Did you know that the Peace River region has one of the most vibrant Francophone communities in Alberta? It’s true, and to celebrate this, every year people come from across Canada to enjoy “Carnaval de St. Isidore”, a unique winter festival dedicated to showcasing Francophone culture.
The festival is happening February 16, 17 & 18, 2024 and features everything from snow sculptures and bonfires to sleigh rides and tobogganing, and of course - amazing food! Try all of the most popular French Canadian foods like poutine and snow taffy; a treat made by pouring toffee on the snow and rolling it on a stick to eat! Learn more about Carnaval de St. Isidore.
Alberta Hockey Pond Championships
For those seeking a fun outdoor activity and a taste of the true Canadian winter experience, the Alberta Hockey Pond Championships in Peace River is a must-do! This three-day event offers a chance to celebrate the sport of hockey and to take it back to its true origins.
With 15 outdoor ice rinks, teams from all over Canada arrive in Peace River to play in the tournament set amongst the beautiful snow-capped trees. If you’re not in the tournament, you can attend to watch the games or take part in other activities like dog sledding, curling, ringette, or watch the ATV and dirt bike ice races.
If you’re worried about staying warm, just head to the onsite heated tent which also features a beer garden, delicious food from a local restaurant, and hot chocolate or coffee from Tim Hortons!
This event is truly unique and not to be missed! This year the Alberta Hockey Pond Championships will be held on March 8, 9 & 10, 2024, click to learn more or register.
Coast Grimshaw Hotel & Suites is conveniently located at the junction of Highway 2 and Highway 2A, a five-hour drive North of Edmonton. This beautiful region is easily accessible by car or by air and is the perfect place to embrace winter and enjoy all the best activities. Plus, Coast Grimshaw Hotel & Suites features an indoor pool with a waterslide, pet-friendly accommodations, and spacious suites with kitchens for those longer stays, everything you need to relax after a day of adventure is here!
