travelalberta.com 1 51° 10’ 41” N 115° 35’ 56” W Vermilion Lakes WINTERLUST: CRAVING A DIFFERENT KIND OF NIGHTLIFE

2 travelalberta.com 3 51° 26’ 44.61” N 116° 9’ 13.77” W WINTERLUST: A YEARNING TO CONQUER MOUNTAINS

4 travelalberta.com 5 FIND THIS PLACE ON GOOGLE EARTH 51° 09’ 33.6” N 115° 33’ 57.1” W IN THIS ISSUE 10 - Make Tracks at the Camrose Nordic Centre WINTERLUST: 14 - Finding Warmth from the Inside Out 18 - A Wild Experience It’s that time of the year when we start 20 - Chocolate and The City pulling out the winter gear, polishing our boots, waxing our skis and boards 24 - Vacation Packages and hunting for that missing mitten. 30 - RUNNING TOWARD THE LIGHT Winter is just around the corner and the excitement is building. 36 - Encounter the Aurora in Northern

So what do we mean by “winterlust”? Basically, it’s 40 - Tongue on the Post that insatiable thirst for the things you love to do in winter – whether it’s curled up and cozy in front of a 46 - #explorealberta crackling fire in a backcountry lodge or carving your way down the mountain in waist-high fresh powder. 48 - RED BULL CRASHED ICE It’s something different for each of us but most of COMES TO us are consumed by it at this time of year. 54 - Francophone Culture Sparkles So if you’re craving winter adventures in Alberta – in Northern Alberta your personal favourites or something brand new – you may have a case of winterlust. In these pages you will find stories that we hope will inspire you to explore your own definition of winterlust. Then all you have to do is (remember to breathe).

6 travelalberta.com 7 It gets both dark and bright around 4 p.m. Cold, yes. Dark, yes. Boring, never. We’ve done this winter thing a time or two before, so we know how to light it up. Stroll down Candy Cane Lane or ice skate in the glow of City Hall’s coloured lights. Start exploring today.

exlore edoto.co

8 travelalberta.com 9 MAKE TRACKS AT THE CAMROSE

NORDIC CENTRE Snow falls lightly on the groomed track as by MIKE FISHER our breath curls into the crisp morning air. Aside from a “chick-a-dee-dee-dee” birdcall, there is silence. Up ahead near the spruce trees, a mule deer watches us. We’re beginners trying cross-country skiing in Camrose but the scenic location makes us feel as if we’re backcountry explorers in raw wilderness.

The small city just 97 km southeast of Edmonton off Hwy 13 is a little-known gem for cross-country skiers. We discovered it by word of mouth when asking friends where we could learn to cross-country ski. We wanted a location that wouldn’t be too out of the way or too busy, yet it has some comfortable hotels and cozy restaurants. Camrose fit the bill.

A GREAT PLACE TO START The Camrose Nordic Centre has 18 km of trails groomed by ski club volunteers. There’s a mix of trails along with flats and hills so that all skill levels and all ages have something to play on. As beginners, we stayed on the big flat area outside the Stoney Creek Centre day lodge. Our instructor taught us basic movements to begin with, including learning how to get up after falling down. Well, that sure came in handy. Being life-long alpine skiers, we’re experienced going downhill, but we discovered our skills didn’t automatically transfer to cross-country’s thinner skis, less rigid boots and different mounting system. Cross-country skiing is a winter sport we wanted to check off our list, a way to get out into the country and get in shape without venturing into the backcountry. While there are talented skiers at the club, there are also beginners like us, so we found it isn’t intimidating for those starting out.

10 travelalberta.com 11 JOIN THE CLUB To get the most out of the Camrose Ski Club, we decided to join it. We did so by registering online (camroseskiclub.com). The cost of weekly adult cross-country ski lessons included a year’s membership. Now is the best time to join because membership has almost tripled to 300 over the past few years. In addition to the skiing, there’s the option to sign The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise The Fairmont Banff Springs The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge up for a biathlon and a natural luge course that comes off a ski jump. If you visit from out of town you can ski for free (if need be, you can rent gear at a local sports shop). There is camaraderie at the club and we found it a great way to meet the locals. That’s who gave us this tip: after WINTER RATES Your winter getaway starts here. skiing, we skate a few blocks away STARTING FROM Escape this winter and explore the unique heritage and unspoiled beauty of the world’s most on Mirror Lake, where there’s a leisure extraordinary natural surroundings. Here, Fairmont’s magnificent iconic properties – The Fairmont rink and one set up for shinny. If you * Chateau Lake Louise, The Fairmont Banff Springs and The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, each a visit, you might find us there. destination unto itself – offer unsurpassed elegance and comfort, exquisite dining, world-class skiing $209 and warm, engaging service. *Per room, per night. Rates vary based on property and are subject to availability at time of booking. 1 888 270 4436 | fairmont.com/jasper | fairmont.com/lakelouise | fairmont.com/banffsprings

Local Canadian - Norwegians CAMROSE would go on a ski hike each TA_Winter_Magazine_2014_halfpage.indd 1 7/28/2014 1:50:39 PM spring down the Stoney Creek SKIING Valley that ran through town. STEEPED The ladies wore high boots laced to the top that rose over their IN HISTORY ankles, using skis made of oak or THIS COULD BE YOU hickory. Norwegian settlers would Camrose is a historical destination help children to build small ski ET SI C’ÉTAIT VOUS... as well as a winter playground jumps and tournaments became for cross-country skiing. The a part of local winter carnivals. Camrose Ski Club founded in These days, the Nordic culture 1911 by Scandinavian settlers is carries on in events such as the one of the oldest cross-country annual Ole Uffda Classic Loppet, ski clubs in Canada. traditionally held in January. Last The University of Alberta year, some 200 people of all ages Augustana Vikings athletes now participated during this terrific train here. This is where Olympians family-oriented event. such as Justine Nordmo and Kari Engstand (Lake Placid, 1932) and SPECIAL EVENTS Glen Rupertus (, 1988 and Lillehammer, 1994) got their start. This winter, the club is hosting the We came for the cross-country Calforax Cup biathlon races January skiing, but in the club’s early days 31 and February 1, 2015, as well as ski jumping attracted spectators the Alberta Cup Cross Country Ski 780.922.5790 looking to be wowed by the daring races February 7-8, 2015. Everyone parkscanada.gc.ca/elkisland Norwegian flyers. A ski jumping is invited to come out and watch. parcscanada.gc.ca/elkisland hill made of natural snow with a If you want to volunteer and meet wooden takeoff was built in 1920. some of these famed locals, just In the 1930s, skis were often contact the club. They’ll be happy homemade from old wooden barrels. to meet you.

travel alberta winter 2015 ad.indd 1 25/07/2014 10:57:49 AM 12 travelalberta.com 13 Olds Cowboy & Co. 5111 48 Street Mon – Sat: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed Sundays

Bean Brokers Cappuccino Bar 5104 46 Avenue Mon – Fri: 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. FINDING Sat: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sun: 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

WARMTH Sylvan Lake Spinnakers Coffee Bar #109 5227 Lakeshore Drive FROM THE Daily: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Red Deer Dose Coffee Company 4912 50 Avenue by JOANNE ELVES Mon – Fri: 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. INSIDE OUT Sat: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sun: 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Yes, I am a coffee snob. I just can’t buy coffee that was bubbled in a vat or handed through a window. But my aversion to drive-thru coffee shops has done me a favour. It’s helped me find some amazing coffee on main street Alberta. Cupper’s Coffee & Tea 1502c 3 Avenue South Mon – Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sat: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed Sundays

It only takes an extra SYLVAN LAKE to appreciate the subtle flavours. also takes coffee seriously. The The Penny Coffee House THE SECRET IS THE COOKIES Great fresh pastries and wholesome Station Coffee Company offers big 331 5 Street South Mon – Fri: 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. minute to drive straight to lunches are available too. tables, soft sofas or intimate corners the heart of town to find Sat: 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Warm up after a skate with German to chat leisurely over fresh baking – Sun: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. friendly folks pouring rich, cookies and the perfect latte at LETHBRIDGE so many choices! fresh roasted and made- Spinnakers Coffee Bar along the THE STRAIGHT GOODS only-for-me coffee. Here shores of Sylvan Lake this winter. COCHRANE I cannot avoid the delicious toffee Opening the door to Cuppers in FOR COZY COFFEE LOVERS Madhatter Coffee Roastery are my favourites so you crunch sugar cookies Silvi makes Lethbridge brings an aromatic wave 513 3 Street SE can find a great cup-a- every morning and neither can the of freshly roasted coffee. Nirvana When the fireplace is roaring in the Mon – Fri: 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. locals. If there are any in the display for a coffee freak like me! Following corner and it’s snowing outside, Sat: 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. joe wherever your winter Sun: 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. case you better scoop them up. my nose brought me into a full-on there is no way I am leaving my table Holiday hours may vary wanders take you! shop of coffee paraphernalia. Could at the Cochrane Coffee Traders. RED DEER this be true? A whole wall of go- The big log cabin in the heart of The Station OLDS GET A PERFECT DAILY DOSE mugs! While the barista concocted MEDICINE HAT Cochrane is great to rendezvous 644 2 Street SE COPPER POTS OR my morning fix, I wandered the TWICE BLESSED with family. The shelves are full of Mon – Fri: 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CINNAMON BUNS? Dose Coffee Company in downtown rows of mugs, canisters and pots. freshly roasted coffee and I never Sat: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Red Deer is a full stop. No grab My husband surveyed and sipped What was to be a quick stop in the leave without a bag of their signature Closed Sundays My go-mug is usually drained by the and go. Rolland is a craftsman samples of their fresh roasts of heart of Medicine Hat had us linger Cowboy Coffee. time we near Olds. A quick flip of the measuring the perfect amount of beans representing the best coffee over coffee twice! The Madhatter I love coffee all year around but Cochrane coin has us going to either Cowboy ethically acquired freshly ground growers in the world. Don’t expect Roastery on 3rd Street drew us in in the winter a hot mug of locally Cochrane Coffee Traders & Co. for espresso crafted from the beans to draw that rich caramel food to nosh at Cuppers but if you with the temptation of a foamy latte brewed Joe is my favourite. After 114 2 Avenue West classic tall copper machine or, to coloured crema from the machine. go to their sister store – The Penny made with espresso roasted twenty all I always say “it doesn’t matter if Mon – Fri: 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Bean Brokers Cappuccino Bar for a A slow pour of foamy milk creates art. Coffee House, the same coffee footsteps from where it was poured. you think the mug is half full or half Sat: 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. fresh mug of brew and a gooey sweet Who can drink such a masterpiece? will accompany delicious meals A few blocks away we stumbled empty… there’s clearly room for Sun: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. cinnamon bun. I can and I do – but ever so slowly or pastries. upon a new funky coffee shop that more coffee.”

14 travelalberta.com 15 Snow Days Mid-Week Ski & Board Package 30% OFF* Lift tickets and regular room rates with our mid-week rewards

Must be reserved in advance: 1.800.661.1933

98 Geikie Street, Jasper Jasper Inn & Suites [email protected]

R *Valid Sunday through Thursday during the 2014/15 winter season. The Inn Restaurant Not available on holidays, Friday or Saturday nights. Offer subject to room availability.

WHAT’S MORE EXCITING THAN SLIDING DOWN? SLIDING DOWN AGAIN.

The giant ice slide is just one of the exhilarating experiences waiting for you at Edmonton’s Ice on Whyte Festival. Come and see how we’re making ice cool.

Stay at a participating Southside Hotel to receive your FREE passes to Ice on Whyte. Visit us at www.iceonwhyte.ca to choose your accommodations and learn more about the icy-est festival in Edmonton. (2 adult passes and 2 child passes per stay) TAKE A LOOK IN THE REARVIEW MIRROR GASOLINE ALLEY MUSEUM OPEN ALL WINTER • HERITAGEPARK.CA

16 travelalberta.com 17 Come enjoy our winter Y playground S

A WILD A

EXPERIENCEMEETING THE WOLF DOGS L by MEGAN KOPP L WATCH THE YOUTUBE VIDEO Wolfdog Sanctuary with the Planet D AN T A F Alberta is full of wild you’re standing.” I passed through and Nova are high content. Kaya is His aunt is one of the Calgary Zoo F double gates to the row of brown mid-content and Nikki is more German wolves. Nova was born in 2012 at a experiences, but deck chairs set out in front of the shepherd than wolf. breeding facility in the United States. Yamnuska Wolf Dog shelter in one corner of the two- With five dogs of her own, Georgina His cousin is Ghost, the “direwolf” from Theme rooms Sanctuary was new acre enclosure. One wolf dog lay notes that “dogs can be impulsive, but the television show Game of Thrones, stretched out a few metres away. they are not really decision-makers. a Northern Inuit and relatively new to me. Two others watched from beneath Wolf dogs on the other hand are breed that resembles a cross between starting at the trees. Georgina came in with a constantly making decisions. They are a German shepherd and a malamute. I turned off Highway 1A near Cochrane plastic bag of treats in her hand and problem-solving animals.” The main Georgina passed out a handful Book today ! and shifted gears as tires crunched walked out into the enclosure before goals of the sanctuary are to educate treats to each of us to feed the on gravel for the short drive along the returning with two more wolf dogs people about responsible wolf dog animals. Kaya and Nikki were up close $198* Visit castlevacations.ca to start planning your winter mountain foothills to the sanctuary. Approaching at her heels. As she sat in the chair ownership and to dispel myths and personal in a flash. Zeus and adventure this season! eight-foot high fences with a two-foot beside me and launched into her surrounding wolves and wolf dogs. Nova held their distance, but snapped and include overhang and wolf dogs watching talk, the animals settled. I took my up flying treats mid-air. Kuna held off your choice between closely, nerves I didn’t realize I had camera out of its bag. YAMNUSKA’S PACK until the second round. Kaida – a little kicked into gear. dragon of a wolf dog pup – came out two packages. A tour of the facility involves going WHAT IS A WOLF DOG? The Yamnuska pack are rescues, after treats were finished. inside the enclosure to meet, feed, given up by owners who realized that Far too soon, our time was done. photograph and learn about rescued I learned that wolf dogs are not always dealing with a wolf dog is nothing like I’m already planning another visit when wolf dogs. Joining two couples from half wolf and half dog. Wolf dogs having a dog. Dogs can be trained. my friends come to town next year. Calgary, I listened carefully as our are usually the result of intentional Wolf dogs? Not so much. guide Georgina de Caigny gave us breeding. It’s easier to breed two wolf While Georgina spoke, I snapped the lowdown on how the experience dogs than a wolf with a dog. It makes pictures of these beautiful animals. skicastle.ca I 1-888-SKI TONS would work. sense that the higher the content of Kuna was born in May 2009 KEEP IN MIND *Details at Fantasylandhotel.com , AB “When you go in, walk over to wolf in the animal, the more wolf-like in Saskatchewan, coming into The sanctuary is unable to the chairs and sit down. The wolf its behaviour and appearance. For Georgina’s life as an 11-week-old accommodate drop-in visits, 1-800-RESERVE

Photo credit: Al Heidel Al credit: Photo dogs won’t come up to you if example Zeus (pictured above), Kuna surrender. Zeus is part Arctic wolf. so you need to book ahead. Offer valid until December 18, 2014 You can do this online at yamnuskawolfdogsanctuary.com 18 travelalberta.com 19 CMR_TAGuidewinter2014_print.indd 1 2014-08-05 9:53 AM EPIPHANIE CHOCOLATES In a small, charming shop of the sort you might to expect to see in the movie Chocolat, chocolatier Debra Fleck CHOCOLATE and her husband John craft tiny works of chocolate art by hand. Try the flat-topped chocolates with images made of edible ink printed on sheets of cocoa butter. AND THE CITY As delicious as they are beautiful. 1417 - 11 Street SW epiphaniechocolate.com WHERE TO by JULIE VAN ROSENDAAL | Calgarians have a long-running appreciation for good GET YOUR FIX quality chocolate, with an appetite for well-crafted IN CALGARY bars, nibs and truffles we like to give, bake with and nibble after dinner. The city is like a box of chocolates; with this hand-picked selection of local chocolatiers, you might not know what you’re gonna get – but you’ll know the getting’s good. OLIVIER’S Having operated a candy factory here since 1909, Olivier’s is CHOCOLATERIE Calgary’s version of Willy Wonka. The Inglewood institution BERNARD CALLEBAUT makes their own version of delicious hedgehog chocolates – never mind seconds, you’ll want thirds! Chocolaterie Bernard Callebaut has been a sweet institution since the first store opened across from Mount Inglewood, 1316 - 9 Avenue SE Royal Village in 1983. Now owned by Cococo Chocolatiers, Banker’s Hall, #265, 315 - 8 Avenue SW oliviers.ca many of the chocolates they produce in their Calgary factory | (and flagship store) are the same ones that made them famous in the eighties. Try the classic hazelnut cup – the dark chocolate cup filled with hazelnut paste has been on offer since the beginning. PAPA CHOCOLAT

1313 - 1 Street SE bernardcallebaut.com After 27 years running his chocolaterie, Bernard Callebaut has | reinvented himself as Papa Chocolat, crafting a new, smaller line of high-quality chocolates filled with unique, hand-picked ingredients. Try the Winston (as in Churchill) – a dried grape marinated in fine malt whiskey, then wrapped in semi-sweet ganache and tucked into a shell.

#226 - 10816 Macleod Trail S | papachocolat.ca CHOKLAT Choklat in Inglewood is the only chocolate maker that let’s you choose the chocolate, filling and coating – and there are almost a thousand combinations! Love is defined as peanut buttercream dipped in dark chocolate rolled in cocoa nibs. WICKED CHOCOLATE 1327 - 9 Avenue SE sochoklat.com | Chocolatier Sue Burgess is known for her chocolate shots – chocolate shells filled with pure maple syrup, wine or liquor. Make sure you eat it in one bite as they are completely liquid inside. Enjoy the maple shot, trust me you’ll like it!

7711 Macleod Trail S | wicked-chocolate.com

20 travelalberta.com 21 51° 15’ 16.6” N 115° 59’ 47.8” W Lodge WINTERLUST: THE FREEDOM TO DRIFT OFF COURSE

22 travelalberta.com 23 vacation packages

Rediscover the Joy of Flight Aero Space Museum of Calgary Package includes: Who doesn’t wish they could fly? Discover Canada’s • Admission for up to two adults aviation adventure and enjoy seeing aircraft up close and four children to the museum while hearing the roar of a modern jet overhead. • 24 aircraft on site Everything from Canada’s first powered aircraft to $25 • Housed in a Second World the majestic “Queen of the Sky” Lancaster are on War Drill Hall display just a short hop from the airport. COME 4629 McCall Way NE, Calgary | 403-250-3752 [email protected] | asmac.ab.ca

Rate is not applicable for special events. Rate includes GST. Single admission prices are also available. Please check our website for hours of operation and special events. Stay and Shop TOGE THER Sheraton Cavalier Hotel Calgary Package includes: Stay one night with the Stay and Shop Package and • One night Traditional Accommodation starting at receive One $75 gift card valid at Chinook Centre, • One $75 gift card valid at Chinook Market Mall, The CORE or Cross Iron Mills. Centre, Market Mall, The CORE or $185 Cross Iron Mills

2620 32 Avenue NE, Calgary | 403-291-0192 [email protected] | sheratoncavaliercalgary.com

Subject to availability. Not valid with any other offers. One gift card per night, per package booked. Valid Thursday to Sunday only from November 13, 2014 to January 18, 2015. Shopaholics Getaway Coast Plaza Hotel Calgary Package includes: Shop ‘til you drop at CrossIron Mills, The Core or • Breakfast for two and one starting at Chinook Centre. Spend a relaxing night in one of night’s accommodation our spacious guestrooms, enjoy refreshments in • $75 shopping voucher Barrington’s Lounge and breakfast at Horizon Bistro. $179 • Complimentary beverages in Barrington’s Lounge

1316 33 Street NE, Calgary | 403-248-8888 [email protected] | calgaryplaza.com

Based on double occupancy in a comfort room. Subject to availability. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Valid Friday, Saturday and Sunday until January 18, 2015. Package price does not include GST and is subject to applicable taxes. Gift certificate not valid for cash. Stay & Play Casino Package Medicine Hat Lodge Package includes: Welcome to ’s only four-star hotel. • One night accommodation Featuring twin giant waterslides, full service casino, • Complimentary deluxe continental luxury day spa, restaurants, lounges and so much breakfast for two more. We have something for everyone. Come relax $99 • $20 in Casino Chips and enjoy some fun.

1051 Ross Glen Drive SE, Medicine Hat | 403-529-2222 | 1-800-661-8095 [email protected] | medhatlodge.com

Subject to availability. Cannot be combined with any other promotions. Valid until March 31, 2015. Package price does not include GST and is subject to applicable taxes.

24 vacation packages

Ski & Stay Package Juniper Hotel & Bistro Package includes: Experience quality time on the slopes of Mt. Norquay and • One night of accommodation then relax at the Juniper Hotel, just minutes away. Enjoy our at the Juniper Hotel outdoor hot tub, après ski fireside and complimentary ski • Two adult full day ski or per$79 person, storage, all from our unique natural setting. snowboard lift tickets for per night MAKE Mt. Norquay Ski Resort 1 Juniper Way, Banff | 1-866-551-2281 [email protected] | thejuniper.com

Based on double occupancy in a standard room. Subject to availability. Available from Sunday to Thursday only. Not valid on holidays or long weekends. Valid until May 30, 2015. Package price does not include GST and is subject to applicable taxes. Upgrades available from $20. TRACKS Family Adventures By Dogsled! Howling Dog Tours Ltd. Package includes: Book the Unleash the Musher tour, and receive one • Two hour tour with snack free child (age 2-5) - a $40 value! Sleds with no and beverage save children can apply the discount of equal value to • Transportation included their sled. The winter season runs from December from Canmore or Banff $40 through April. All tours run in the Spray Lake • Personalized service with Provincial Park. one guide per sled

#105, 712 Trail, Canmore | 1-877-DOGSLED (364-7533) [email protected] | howlingdogtours.com

Minimum 2 adult prices per sled. Subject to availability. Not valid during high season: December 20-31, 2014; January 1-4, 2015; February 14-16, 2015; April 3-6, 2015, and every Saturday. Maximum 2 sleds per discounted booking. Offer ends March 31, 2015. Package price does not include GST and is subject to applicable taxes. Scrooge Ski Package Mountain Park Lodges, Jasper Package includes: If you’re wanting to pinch a few pennies, but want • Accommodation and hot breakfast to give your spirit a lift, then this unique Jasper • Lift Ticket ski getaway is right for you. Valid Opening Day to • 15% off additional meals at December 18, 2014. Mountain Park Lodges $139

1-888-852-7737 [email protected] | mpljasper.com

Based on a standard room at the Marmot Lodge, per person, double occupancy. Other room types and prices available. Limited availability. Not valid with any other offer. Does not include taxes. Blackout dates and some restrictions apply. Spec“tubular” Family Fun Mystic Springs Chalets and Hot Pools Package includes: Canmore’s Ultimate Family Resort is offering a • Tubing for two adults and spectubular time in a two bedroom/two bathroom two children at Mt. Norquay chalet! Connect and laugh as only a family can • Two free pool noodles for the $269for a family while tubing down a mountain and then swimming outdoor heated pool of four in Canmore’s largest outdoor heated pool! • One night in our two bedroom two bathroom chalets

140 Kananaskis Way, Canmore | 403-609-0333 [email protected] | mysticsprings.ca

Subject to availability. Cannot be combined with any other offers or special packages. Valid November 17 to December 18, 2014 and from January 5, 2015 to April 30, 2015. Midweek or weekends. Not valid on Holiday Weekends. Package price does not include GST and is subject to applicable taxes.

travelalberta.com 27 vacation packages

Snuggle in the Snow Georgetown Inn & Suites Package includes: Stay in our unique Victoria Suites while snuggling in front of • One night in a Victoria Suite your own fireplace and/or in your very own private two person equipped with fireplace and Jacuzzi tub. Enjoy some red, white or sparkling wine while jacuzzi tub $199per couple sharing a Ploughman’s appetizer platter. Wake up refreshed • Bottle of red, white or sparkling and marvel at Canmore’s winter beauty while feasting on wine with a Ploughman’s our “Famous Stuffed French Toast” or other scrumptious Appetizer Platter breakfast items. • Breakfast for two COZY 1101 Bow Valley Trail, Canmore | 403-678-3439 [email protected] | georgetowninn.ca

Subject to availability. Cannot be combined with any other offers or special packages. Valid from November 17 to December 18, 2014 and from January 5, 2015 to April 30, 2015. Not valid on Holiday Weekends. Package price does not include GST and is subject to applicable taxes. Wellness Weekend Retreat! UP Diamond Willow Artisan Retreat Package includes: A weekend of creativity and relaxation awaits you in Alberta’s • Two nights (shared) luxury beautiful foothills. Try a watercolour sampler, hands-on cooking accommodations, all meals included class, and a relaxing yoga session, all in a luxurious country • Three wellness-based classes: $495 inn. Two nights (shared) accommodations, wholesome meals creative, nourishing, nurturing and refreshments and three classes. Please call for availability • See other offerings at Diamond and to book a weekend of YOU time! Willow’s website

224 133 Highway 546 (5 km west of Turner Valley) | 403-933-5755 [email protected] | diamondwillowartisanretreat.com

Based on shared occupancy. Subject to availability. Valid until May 31, 2015. Package price does not include GST and is subject to applicable taxes. May qualify for PD points/reimbursement. Bring pals or come on your own. Waterton Winter Adventure Waterton Lakes Lodge Resort Package includes: Come stay in Waterton this winter and experience • One night in a standard room the serenity of the park. Relax, restore and indulge • Dinner at Vimy’s Lounge & Grill in delectable food from Vimy’s Lounge and Grill. To $119 • Your choice of snowshoes, for two enhance your package, add ski or snowshoe rentals persons cross country skis or backcountry to experience some of the best backcountry and touring skis if upgrading cross-country touring in Canada.

101 Clematis Avenue, Waterton Park | 403-859-2150 [email protected] | watertonlakeslodge.com

$149 with ski/snowshoe rentals. Valid November 10, 20 to December 18, 2014 and from January 30, 2015 to April 30, 2015. Not valid on Holiday Weekends and is subject to availability, based on double occupancy, cannot be combined with any other offers or special packages, dinner voucher $20 value per person. Rocky Mountain Adventure Resort Package includes: Tucked into the southwest corner of Alberta in the • 40% off a mid week stay in , Castle Mountain Resort has Castle Mountain Ski Lodge everything you need for an adventure in the snow! • 40% off mid week lift tickets $222per couple Spend your day in the endless powder and then at Castle Mountain Resort relax in the cozy Castle Mountain Ski Lodge. • 30% off mid week snow equipment rental package skicastle.ca | 1-888-764-8667 castlelodge.ca | 1-888-627-5121

Image: Al Heidel alpenland.ca | 403-627-5389 Based on double occupancy. Subject to availability. Pre-booking required. Discount only applies if booking a full package. Valid from December 12, 2014 to April 6, 2015. Blackout dates from December 24, 2014 to January 5, 2015 and February 16 to 20, 2015. Package price does not include GST and is subject to applicable taxes.

28 travelalberta.com 29 ON THE HUNT FOR THE AURORA BOREALIS IN ALBERTA by MEGHAN WARD

30 travelalberta.com 31 The Cree call them the dance of the spirits. Enthralled by the magic of the northern lights, one Alberta photographer is on a mission to capture them in extraordinary settings – a task that often involves an exhilarating chase.

It was a cool night on May 31, 2013, With the impressive north face of When the fog descended and didn’t when professional photographer Paul reflected in the serene relent, he decided to switch locations. Zizka left his home in Banff to drive water below, the lights continued to For 30 minutes after leaving Herbert to Herbert Lake, a small body of water dance. The fog moved in and out of Lake, the fog was so thick he couldn’t along the world-famous Icefields the valley bottom, adding drama to see more than 100 metres. “But when Parkway in . an already spectacular scene. I emerged out of the cloud at Castle Eagerly, he glanced upwards through Mountain, the sky was just filled with the windshield, checking the skies at green,” he recounted. Feeling like regular intervals. All forecasts predicted he’d won the lottery, he shot along the aurora borealis, aka the northern FOG FANNED the TransCanada Highway and lights, would put on a show – perhaps Bow Valley Parkway until his chase the best one of the year. “I knew I was FROM THE took him to Vermilion Lakes around on the verge of what could be one 1:30 a.m. Low clouds ebbed around of the greatest photo ops I had ever SUMMIT OF the imposing summit of encountered,” Paul explained. as the lights streaked the sky. At this To capture the lights, he would CASCADE point, the display had been going on need clear skies and total darkness. for three hours, non-stop. He parked on the roadside next to MOUNTAIN The hunt didn’t end there. the lake and made his way along the Already satisfied with his images, shoreline to the south end, hoping WHILE AURORA Paul could now flex his creative for a clear view to the north. Though muscles and take his time. His last the sun had set, remnant light still PIROUETTED stop took him to an open meadow. illuminated the sky and a thick fog Nearby, a plume of fog fanned from lingered eerily down low. His camera BEHIND PATCHES the summit of Cascade Mountain, at the ready, he settled in to wait while the aurora pirouetted behind for nightfall. OF CLOUD patches of cloud. Enthralled, Paul Finally, dusk turned to darkness. sat in the frame, centered at the Around 10:30 p.m. Paul saw a base of the triangular peak, and greenish glow out of the corner of Paul knew he was in the hot seat. captured a self-portrait. his eye. Suddenly the sky above Setting his exposures to 30 seconds, When all was said and done, him was overflowing with the aurora – he observed the shifting lights while Paul Zizka had driven 150 kilometres green and purple pillars darting across his camera processed, hoping they throughout Banff National Park and a star-filled backdrop. But something would stay out long enough for him photographed the northern lights for odd was happening. The display to capture them. “When you’ve been almost five hours running. He has covered such a vast part of the sky chasing aurora for long enough chased the aurora many times since, that the best show was happening and you know it’s a once a decade but that night’s display stands as his behind him. Quickly, he scrambled event, you have to make it count,” most memorable quest to date. to the other side of the lake. he recalled.

32 travelalberta.com 33 atmosphere. The colours change amount of ambient light in the sky. WHAT CAUSES depending on the type of particles At the South Pole, the lights THE AURORA that are colliding – yellow-green due are called the aurora australis or to oxygen and blue to purplish-red southern lights. BOREALIS? due to nitrogen, for instance.

DID YOU KNOW? The aurora is an optical phenomenon characterized by colourful displays In 1619 Galileo named this natural of light in the night sky. It is caused light display the aurora borealis by the collision of charged solar wind after the Roman goddess of particles with the gaseous particles dawn, Aurora, and the Greek in the Earth’s upper atmosphere and name for the north wind, Boreas. magnetic field. The lights are most Viewing the aurora is usually visible towards the poles because best experienced not at dawn the magnetic field is weaker there, but late in the evening and past allowing solar particles to enter the midnight, when there is the least

#albertadarkskies contest Capture The Brilliance Of Alberta’s Dark Skies for a chance to win the Shooting Stars Grand Prize Package, including a four-hour evening workshop with award winning nature photographer Paul Zizka, two nights at Fairmont Banff Springs plus a $500 gift certificate and $300 in gas cards.

Post your photo to Instagram or Twitter using #albertadarkskies and tag @travelalberta to enter. Contest entries run from November 20, 2014 to January 18, 2015, winner will be chosen January 26, 2015. Must be 18+ and a Canadian Resident. For more information visit TravelAlberta.com/albertadarkskies

With regard to any photograph submitted to this Contest, the owner of the photo retains all copyright. By uploading any photograph to the Contest, you grant (or warrant that the owner of such materials expressly grants) Travel Alberta a world-wide, royalty-free, irrevocable and non-exclusive right and license to use, copy, adapt, transmit, communicate, publicly display and perform, distribute and create compilations and derivative works or merchandise from any such submitted photograph to promote the Contest. You represent and warrant that you have the right to grant the license set out above. See contest rules and regulations for more details (travelalberta.com/albertadarkskies). ©iStock.com/TommL

FORECASTING TOOLS aurorawatch.ca solarham.net ON THE WEB A free aurora email alert system Raw data and summaries from the University of Alberta forecasting the sun’s activities Zizka relies on more than camera Follow @aurorawatch on Twitter to cleardarksky.com equipment to capture the northern get instant updates on aurora activity Accurate cloud cover forecasts lights. He recommends these from the University of Alberta. for much of Alberta web resources to maximize your spaceweather.com darksitefinder.com aurora watching: All celestial events in one Maps that help you find handy place skies with low light pollution

34 SHARP COLOURS SURGE LIKE A MULTI-HUED CURTAIN IN THE WIND. THEY MULTIPLY AND MORPH, SOARING ENCOUNTER OVER US LIKE AN EXPLODING RAINBOW. OUR GROUP OF PARKA-CLAD AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHERS CAN’T HELP BUT THE AURORA HOLLER AND CHEER. I AIM MY CAMERA EXCITEDLY AT THE SHIMMERING PURPLES, PINKS, REDS AND GREENS.

IN NORTHERN • Because you’re that much closer The setting: just 15 km outside by MIKE FISHER Fort McMurray in a clearing of boreal to the North Pole, the richness and forest on a crisp winter night. The variety of colours can outperform ALBERTA scene: we feel as if we have our own what you’ll see in more southern private viewing, as the phenomenon parts of the province where known as the aurora borealis puts sightings occur. on a memorable midnight show. • The area has generally warmer The area surrounding Fort McMurray temperatures and more clear nights lies within the southern portion of the between September and mid-May zone of maximum occurrence, so it’s than other aurora destinations one of the best places to view the in Canada. northern lights. Fifteen of us are here with Alta-Can Aurora Tours, which has • Alta-Can Tours promises that been showing off the aurora to visitors guests have a 90 per cent chance for more than 20 years at their well- of seeing aurora activity during a equipped viewing sites. three-night stay. Alta-Can’s professional photographer • Darkness in the area lasts longer helped me mount my digital camera on Banff Lake Louise Tourism / Paul Zizka than some of the other northern Bringing families together. 403.264.2705 EscapE to your backyard Experience Calgary’s favourite holiday tradition. Be amazed Located at 7,200 feet, the Sunshine Mountain by 1.5 million Christmas lights 403.539.2000 F 403.539.2000 Lodge provides 360 degree panoramic on display for you and T

your family to enjoy. Canadian Rocky Mountain views in the heart File Description: ZOOLIGHTS ad Colour: CMYK of Sunshine Village Ski and Snowboard Resort. This fi le was prepared by le was prepared This fi

a tripod and suggested I might get a lights destinations during the spring, Nov. 21, 2014 to Jan. 3, 2015

better shot looking to the northeast. so it can be viewed later from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. nightly Docket: CZO-3753 Size: 2.722” X 11” I learned the aurora usually starts in into the year. the northeast and moves over the northern sky to the west. It can That’s lucky for us, because after this sometimes be gone in minutes, so excursion, we plan to return for a tour I was ready to act fast. in the spring. Alta-Can is the only Viewing Alberta’s northern lights aurora tour in the world that offers WINTER EDITION ALBERTA TRAVEL near Fort McMurray has a wow factor spring viewing tours (altacan.ab.ca). Buy your tickets at: www.skibanff.com because of several advantages, WATCH THE YOUTUBE VIDEO calgaryzoo.com/zoolights

CALGARY ZOO Client: CALGARY Date: AUG 6, 2014 Publication: 1-87-ski-banff (1-877-542-2633) Northern Lights Tour – Travel Alberta, Canada including the prime location.

36 travelalberta.com 37 8.5” x 11”, plus 0.125” bleed, 0.25” safety area Outdoor skating trail Snow luge Cross country, Snowshoe & Fat Bike Trails Easy access backcountry huts Kicksledding Alpine Skiing & Snowboarding Rental equipment

& more

Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, Alberta

38 travelalberta.com 39 TEMPERATURES HAVE you won’t want to miss this one. artists register, each act could debut Think summer folk fest without the two or three original songs. It’s an PLUMMETED, DARKNESS mosquitoes, perspiration or crowds, exhilarating evening to take part ENVELOPS THIS NORMALLY- for a fraction of the cost. in, and the prospect of discovering SUNSHINY PRAIRIE TOWN A variety of unique, family-friendly Western Canada’s emerging talents makes it a consistent crowd pleaser. AND SNOW BLANKETS THE concert series. From Monday through The main event also promises a DRAMATIC CLAY CLIFFS OF THE Friday, local cafés and bistros play full house. Headliners have included host to afternoon and evening shows. musicians such as the award-winning TONGUE SOUTH SASKATCHEWAN RIVER. Past performers include acclaimed J.R. Shore and the Jury and John Wort IT’S JANUARY IN SOUTHERN acts such as The Wailin’ Jennys, Hannam. What makes Saturday night’s Danny Michel and Michael Bernard gala concert so special is the venue, ALBERTA AND IT’S DEFINITELY Fitzgerald. It’s a rare opportunity to which is located in the heart of the WINTER OUTSIDE. sample talented artists in some of city’s historic clay district. A national Medicine Hat’s cosiest venues, like and provincial historic site, Medalta is ON THE the Madhatter Roastery. This a ceramics factory, working studio and MEDICINE HAT’S Inside, soft light illuminates the face of charming, independently owned industrial museum. WINTER FOLK FESTIVAL a young singer-songwriter. Her voice atmosphere ideal for live music. RETURNING TO THE SCENE by ADRIENNE BEATTIE warms the souls of the small audience The adventurous will want to OF THE CRIME gathered for this intimate performance pencil in Friday’s singer-songwriter – one of more than 20 concerts in a night. It’s a festival favourite, and Here’s how it went down last year: POST weeklong line-up. Indeed, it’s anything not just because it’s free. Musicians with $15 in my pocket and my but cold at the Tongue on the Post from across Western Canada have weekend free, I headed to Medalta Folk Music Festival in Medicine Hat. been known to brave cross-country to investigate the festival’s Saturday You heard right – a folk music winter driving conditions just for lineup. On the day’s roster were festival in the depths of winter. And this event. Depending on how many musical performances, workshops and

CANADA Calgary ALBERTA Lethbridge Fort Macleod BRITISH COLUMBIA Pincher Creek

WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK

Border Crossings MONTANA Glacier Babb National Park St. Mary’s USA o the Sun Road Going t

Kalispell Browning

40 travelalberta.com 41 © & TM 2014 Lucasfilm Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Used Under Authorization.

Showcasing items from four different films, a crafts market. Since at least one of straight away invited us to participate. this exhibition is far more than a display of the concerts is scheduled outdoors in He’s a big fan of throat singing and his MEDICINE HAT IN THE MIDDLE movie costumes, props and artwork. Real the courtyard, my toque, down jacket energy was contagious. archaeological artifacts, photographs, and a thermos of hot chocolate joined OF WINTER? YES, PLEASE! videos and educational materials me for the journey. from National Geographic and the IT TURNED OUT TO In the quiet spaces between Visitors can make a week of I resolved to be daring and signed up internationally-renowned Penn Museum Saturday’s side stages, festival the festival enjoying Medicine for Don Hill’s throat singing workshop, BE A MEMORABLE HOUR. compliment the exhibition with a wealth of goers should be sure to check Hat and its surrounding which I hope will be offered again this historical and cultural facts and objects. THE VIBE IN THE ROOM out the Folk Store. The market attractions. Embrace winter in year. He held two – one for musicians is sponsored by the festival and the Badlands and pack a pair and one for the not-so-musically- WAS PURE CREATIVITY. can be found in the reception of snowshoes. If you can walk, inclined, like me. I recognized Don’s OPEN DAILY gallery at Medalta. It features you can snowshoe, which name from his time as a radio host for We tested our voices with some 780-451-3344 CKUA and CBC. The workshop was basic vocalizations that he guided us local artisans, crafters and makes this a great activity for popular and with space for only 40 or through and soon we’re all playing and makers selling their pottery, the whole family. Police Point Telusworldofscienceedmonton.ca/Indy START PLANNING YOUR TRIP 50, I was lucky to have nailed a spot. experimenting together using gongs, apparel, photography, honey, Park Interpretive Nature Centre AT TOURISMCANMORE.COM It turned out to be a memorable bells and a 26-string Chinese zither. coffee, fibre arts, musical offers snowshoe rentals, self- hour. The vibe in the room was pure Laughter resonated throughout the instruments and gifts. The guided tours, and year-round creativity. The brick walls and ceiling, impressive acoustic space and too Folk Store adds another exhibits and programming. wooden floorboards, scant lighting soon, the workshop came to an end. dimension to the festival and Feel winter crunch beneath and unamplified space set the scene. I felt so invigorated afterward. Definitely provides a recharging break your feet as you amble through Don praised the health benefits of want to take it to the next level this year. from the performances with a the river valley and take in the singing, demonstrating the techniques The 2015 festival runs January 20-25. children’s activity table, snacks wide open prairie sky, peaceful of overtone harmonics and almost Get your tickets at topfest.ca and refreshments. quiet and magical snowscape.

42 travelalberta.com 43 51° 15’ 30.16” N 115° 49’ 59.22” W Johnston Canyon WINTERLUST: A DESIRE TO FREEZE PERFECT MOMENTS

44 travelalberta.com 45

explore alberta For a more extensive list # of Alberta events visit travelalberta.com SOUTHERN CALGARY ALBERTA & AREA

November 7-December 20 November 27 November 21 The Lion, The Witch and The A Night at the Museum Light Up Okotoks Wardrobe: Rosebud Theatre Shopping Event Okotoks Rosebud Lethbridge okotoks.ca rosebudtheatre.com galtmuseum.com November 22-December 21 November 19-21 December 3-21 Once Upon a Christmas Victorian Prairie Christmas Christmas Tree Cutting Calgary Stirling Cypress Hills Provincial Park heritagepark.ca stirling.ca albertaparks.ca/cypress-hills November 21-January 3 November 21-December 20 ENMAX Zoolights NORTHERN Cowboy Christmas Show CENTRAL Calgary EDMONTON Hillspring calgaryzoo.com ALBERTA gcbd.ca ALBERTA & AREA December 6-7; 13-14 Spirit of Christmas Festival Bragg Creek November 21-December 18 November 22-23 November 15-16 visitbraggcreek.com November 28- January 7 Northern Spirit Light Show ALBERTA Canadian Rockies Snow Battle SnowFest Enchanted Forest ROCKIES Jasper Red Deer January 8-11 Fort Saskatchewan gptourism.ca canadianrockiessnowbattle.ca visitreddeer.com WFG Continental Cup of Curling fortsask.ca Calgary February 11-15 November 27-December 31 November 27-December 7 curling.ca/2015continentalcup-en December 6-7 World Snowmobile Invasion Christmas in Canmore Vermilion Winter Fair Luminaria Whitecourt Canmore Vermilion Edmonton worldsnowmobileinvasion.com tourismcanmore.com thegoodlifeinstitute.ca devonian.ualberta.ca

February 27, 28 and March 1 January 10-February 8 December 3-7 January 23-February 1 winterPLAY Snowdays 2014 Canada Cup of Curling Ice on Whyte Fort McMurray Banff Camrose Edmonton woodbuffalo.ab.ca banfflakelouise.com curling.ca/2014canadacup-en iceonwhyte.ca

February 28-March 1 January 16-18; 24-25 December 5 February 6-8 Winter Festival of Speed Ice Magic Festival Sounds of the Season The Flying Canoe Adventure Lac La Biche Banff Red Deer Edmonton classsicwheels.org banfflakelouise.com rdc.ab.ca exploreedmonton.com March 13-15 January 30-February 1 February 7-8 February 13-22 Alberta Pond Hockey The MEC Ice Climbing Festival Choko Pro Racing Series Silver Skate Festival Championship Wetaskiwin Edmonton Grimshaw Banff banfflakelouise.com history.alberta.ca/reynolds silverskatefestival.org albertapondhockey.com

46 travelalberta.com 47 RED BULL CRASHED ICE COMES TO EDMONTON WINTER 2015 by SHELLEY ARNUSCH

THE MOVE TO WESTERN CANADA MARKS A NEW ERA FOR CRASHED ICE— QUEBEC CITY HAS BEEN THE PRIMARY CANADIAN HOST FOR THE TOUR SINCE ITS DEBUT IN 2001 BUT THIS WINTER IT’S EDMONTON’S TURN

48 travelalberta.com 49 You don’t have to spend very long Particularly when you factor in the in Edmonton to see that this is a city 100,000-plus spectators that past that knows how to embrace winter events have drawn. and find the fun in it. So it’s not The move to Western Canada surprising the action-sport execs at marks a new era for Crashed Ice. Red Bull deemed Edmonton an ideal Quebec city was the primary host spot for its high-octane Crashed Ice since its debut 13 years ago. series this winter. TAILOR-MADE CRASHED ICE 101 FOR EDMONTON For those who aren’t familiar with The track, which will launch from the Crashed Ice, here’s a crash course. Shaw Conference Centre, is sure Part of the sporting arm of the to be as fearsome and spectacular global energy-drink manufacturer as expected. However, the draw Red Bull, Crashed Ice is the premier of Crashed Ice is as much about race series for the nouveau sport of the festival atmosphere as it is the ice cross downhill. It’s essentially adrenaline rush, says James Jackson a fusion of hockey and ski/boarder of Edmonton Events, the bureau cross that pits heats of four skaters charged with attracting and staging against each other on a downhill large-scale sporting and cultural ice course containing banked turns, events to the city. jumps and rollers. The top two With its clear winter skies, strong finishers in each heat survive to race skating tradition and picturesque again, while the bottom two are river valley setting, all the elements culled from competition, until the are in place for Edmonton to write field of 64 skaters is whittled down an exciting new chapter in Red Bull’s to a final four. Crashed Ice saga. Picture sitting in the good seats “You don’t need a hockey at an NHL game and watching two background to appreciate this event,” players chase a puck down the ice Jackson says. “We really want to and barrel into the boards behind engage the entire province. This isn’t the goal, then imagine those players just for Edmonton, this is for every skating downhill and flying over jumps Albertan who appreciates winter.” and you’ve basically got the gist of it. To learn more, visit Exciting? That’s an understatement. redbullcrashedice.com

50 travelalberta.com 51 51° 15’ 16.6” N 115° 59’ 47.8” W Storm Mountain Lodge WINTERLUST: LONGING FOR THE WARMTH OF WINTER

52 travelalberta.com 53 La Cabane à Sucre du Nord (Northern SUGAR Sugarshack) has run in Bonnyville for 35 years, drawing nearly 700 enthusiasts in 2014. Taking place in March and for FRANCOPHONE SHACKS the past eight years hosted at a local farm, the one-day event features live AROUND traditional music and the irresistible CULTURE tire sur la neige. SPARKLES IN ALBERTA Grande Prairie’s one-day event, Festival de la Cabane à Sucre, has run for 17 ST. ISIDORE’S CARNAVAL years, pulling in as many as 2,000 from NORTHERN across the region. Hosted in February IS NOT ALBERTA’S at Muskoseepi Park Pavilion, the ONLY QUÉBÉCOIS- family-friendly occasion includes sleigh ALBERTA INSPIRED FESTIVAL. rides, ice skating on a frozen pond, traditional French-Canadian music and poutine et tourtière. by LYNN MARTEL A Byzantine Winter Festival Calgary, too, hosts its Maple Festival des Sucres in April, featuring Métis, JAN 10-11, 2015 Franco-Canadian and African artisans displaying their creations, plus a Between 90-94 Street on 118 Ave children’s workshop, walking tours Edmonton, AB through the former community of Rouleauville, and yummy French Experience the tastes, sights and sounds of Canadian-style pea soup, poutine, the Olde New Year while melding artistic maple syrup-slathered pancakes and panache with authentic cultural and maple taffy on snow. heritage winter games at Deep Freeze: A Byzantine Winter Festival! This fun family event brings together the Ukrainian, Franco-Albertan, Franco-African, First Nations, and South American communities to revel in the magic and beauty of winter. I’m holding a sticky, irresistible tire sur northwest of Edmonton. Many of its rides, dance performances, crowning and popular French comic characters settlers alive. All of the families, al neige (maple taffy) lollipop, cooled scant 300 residents (“depending if it’s of teenage ducs et duchesses and Astérix & Obélix. however, are still represented. DANCE MUMMERS FIREWORKS FUN from its twirl in the snow. They say that Christmas or not”) are descended from the crowd favourite snow sculpting “What Carnaval does for the Bergeron spoke French growing ICE SLIDE STREET HOCKEY ICE SLIDE smell is the sense most closely related 10 Québécois families who established competition. To create that event, community is give the local artists an up – her mother never learned to ETHNIC FOODS ART SALE MUSIC to memory but the second I taste this the community in the 1950s. Bergeron’s brother and cousin opportunity to represent themselves,” speak English - but today effort ICE & SNOW SCULPTURE nature made treat, the unforgettable Carnaval was created to help travelled to Québec to learn from Bergeron said. and dedication are required to keep flavour transports me back to my preserve and celebrate the distinct another cousin who’s a champion But their culinary talents shine the Franco-Albertan culture alive. school days in Montreal and French Canadian culture they helped snow sculptor. equally bright, shared in tourtière Carnaval St. Isidore helps instill just springtime field trips tocabanes cultivate in northern Alberta. Over the years Carnaval has gained (meat pie), pattes de lynx (similar to such cultural ties. a sucres (sugar shacks). “We started small, but we’ve kept popularity, with its line-up of traditional beaver tails), poutine (French fries “Carnaval is very much a it up,” said Rachelle Bergeron, a and world beat live music artists with gravy and cheese curds), and the homecoming,” Bergeron said. “Lots long-time festival organizer whose becoming a not-to-be-missed event. pièce de résistance, sirop d’érable of family come back. There’s all this With the holy grail of maple syrup parents were among St. Isidore’s The town’s creativity is well celebrated (maple syrup) imported from Québec’s food and family. It’s very special.” festivals in my hand, I enter the original settlers. in Carnaval’s themes, which have legendary sugar maples farmed by And for visitors such as Anastasia gazebo where a lively fiddle and “The first one was a Friday night in included tropical, western, outer relatives of a St. Isidore family. Martin-Stillwell, the experience is accordion band plays traditional the bush around a campfire. But St. space and Vegas-style costumes special too. Québécois music. I realize sound, Isidore – we’re a creative community. CULTURAL TIES “Sitting on hay bales listening to too, is a powerful trigger for memory Everyone has added their two bits. different bands in the gazebo was a as my foot taps to the infectious beat, Somebody said let’s have a dance. Named for a patron saint of farm cosy, authentic experience, with a cool welcoming me into the warmth of And it really took off from there.” workers, St. Isidore was populated kind of rustic farm vibe,” Martin-Stilwell French Canadian culture. Sipping caribou - a spirited by families actively recruited by the said. “There was French language in concoction of brandy, vodka, sherry Union des Cultivateurs Catholiques. the air. My husband has Québécois CARNAVAL BEGINNINGS and port synonymous with Québec For the first five years they ran a roots and he was super amazed. It was IN ST. ISIDORE City’s renowned Carnaval – around cooperative farm. Bergeron’s parents a lovely weekend – really special.” a cheery bonfire remains a favourite arrived in 1954 with seven children, Visit Carnaval St. Isidore’s bilingual DeepFreezeFest.ca carnavaldestisidore.ab.ca Now in its 33rd year, Carnaval St. draw. Now running two days the third five more were born in Alberta. She website at @DeepFreezeYeg Isidore is an annual community weekend of February, St. Isidore’s and four siblings remain in St. Isidore; and make plans to attend on highlight in this hamlet 500 km festival features log sawing, hay her father, 96, is one of few original February 15, 2015. facebook.com/deepfreezefestival

54 travelalberta.com 55 NATURE RULES

In Banff National Park you’ll find that Mother Nature likes to keep you busy. Exquisite cuisine, boutique shopping and world class performances. Natural hot springs, grand castles and wilderness adventure. Because here in the only protected mountain resort on Earth, nature rules. BanffLakeLouise.com.

1817 10th Avenue SW Calgary, AB T3C 0K2 Telephone (403) 266-4094 Fax (403) 269-1140 Docket: 37674 Due Date: Jul.11.14 Client: Banff Lake Louise Tourism Description: Weekend with Mother Nature Size: Full page bleed (8.5" x 11" trim) Insertion date: Publication: Travel Alberta Winter Magazine Colour: cmyk Account Ex: L.Wiebe Designer: L.Wasko Production: B.Pfleger