Your Guide to Chinook Blast

Chinook Blast will return January 30 - February 16, 2026.

What is Chinook Blast?

Chinook Blast is an annual winter festival in Calgary, now in its fifth year. You can expect magical lights, mesmerizing art installations, live performances, and family-friendly activities. Other Chinook Blast events include night markets, a winter sports hub, and a self-guided art walk in East Village. The best part - virtually all the programming is free!

When is Chinook Blast?

Chinook Blast takes place from January 30 - February 16, 2026, with festivities happening around the city. Most event programming is during the weekends. Check the official Chinook Blast website to plan your visit.

Where is Chinook Blast?

The new home of Chinook Blast events and activations will be split between the all-new Eau Claire Plaza , and the Chinese Cultural Centre.

What's on at Chinook Blast?

Live at the Plaza

The RISE UP Calgary Community Outdoor Stage at Eau Claire Plaza is where you’ll find a diverse mix of bands, DJs, and cultural showcases. Here's a snapshot of what you can expect:

January 30

• Cedric Lightning & Kris Demeanor - Pow wow-inspired sounds

• L’omelette - Genre-bending synth-pop

• Tribe Artist Society - Indigenous hip hop & dance

January 31

• Drag on Ice 4 - Frozen Disco Xtravaganza

February 7

• –MOVE– - Fire dancers + electronic beats presented by PK SOUND

February 14

• Blue Jay Sessions: Amped Up! - Canadian duo music series

February 16

• Skinny Blaiz & Ray Val - Afropop & R&B on Family Day

Art & Light Installations

Throughout Eau Claire Plaza, these giant glowing art pieces light up the night.

Must-sees:

• TIC-TAC-TOTE(S) - Giant LED game board

• Electric Dandelions - Towering flower sculptures

• The Cloud Swing - Motion-activated light swings

• Electric Grove - An LED tree forest

• Crystal Wishes - Voice-activated wishing well

• The Dome - 44-ft geodesic light show

• LightScape - Interactive community light wall

Stay tuned for more announcements!