(Town of Blackfalds)

By Town of Blackfalds

long weekend

Blackfalds Winterfest cancelled due to budget and pandemic

Feb 13, 2021 | 11:01 AM

Winterfest began in 2008, with a few winter activities for families like pond hockey and snowman making contests. The event evolved with the introduction and fan-favourite Penguin Dip in 2014 featuring brave volunteers from around the community raising money for their favourite charity – by jumping into a pool of ice-cold water. From 2014 to 2020, our dippers raised a total of $19,971.25.

The event has only gotten bigger and better throughout the years, with last year’s event bringing in hundreds of people despite the chilly weather. It was initially hosted in Centennial Park, then the Multi-Plex, then the Community Centre. For the past six years, it has been held at the Abbey Centre.

However, due to budget considerations and the current pandemic restrictions affecting all local events, it was decided by Administration and council to cancel this year’s Winterfest.

“I have participated in every Winterfest over the past decade as it is one of my favourites, and its cancellation was not an easy decision for us to make,” shared Sean Barnes, Director of Community Services.

Mayor Poole added that Council has supported this event for as long as he can remember. “I’ll miss the enjoyment this event brings, and I will especially miss watching the brave volunteers as they line up to do their Penguin Dip along with the shocked faces they make as they hit the water. I am looking forward to a future where we all can have community events to bring us together again.”

Last seen March 31

Missing: Eugenie Headman, 66, of Maskwacis

1h ago

mayor hopes to meet housing minister this month

Alberta demands Ottawa back off on housing funding stripped from Red Deer

Apr 02, 2026

Last seen Jan. 15

Missing: Courtney Cattleman, 17, of Maskwacis

Apr 02, 2026

The average budget for Winterfest is $22,000 annually which included wagon rides, ice slides, ice sculptures, and workshops, as well as Kidz Zone indoor inflatables.

This year, we invite you to celebrate Family Day by venturing out to the outdoor skating spaces, taking a sled ride down the many hills, or enjoy a comfortable night in and order from one of our many local restaurants.

Whatever you choose to do, we wish you a happy Family Day weekend and hope you all stay safe and warm.

Town Staff have put together a video compilation of photos and videos from the past 13 years!

(Town of Blackfalds media release)