Offbeat Entertainment and The Alpine Club of Canada, Edmonton Section are turning up the frosty fun with the UIAA Ice Climbing World Cup and YEG Ice Fest being held in Edmonton’s vibrant river valley at Louise McKinney Park from February 27-March 2, 2025. This thrilling winter event offers something for everyone, from food and entertainment to a family fun zone with a winter market and world-class athletes displaying their physical prowess!
Date: Thursday, Feb. 27 – 3:30 – 8:30 pm
Location: Louise McKinney Park (Edmonton AB Canada)
Who: Athletes, Coaches, Officials, FREE Access for Opening Ceremonies
All athletes will get a welcome package, pay their registration fees and receive their bibs before getting a competition briefing for the weekend. This includes the following disciplines:
UIAA World Cup Speed OR Lead Climbing (80 Euro)
UIAA World Cup Both Disciplines (120 Euro)
Community Comp Speed OR Lead Climbing ($25)
Community Comp Both Disciplines ($40)
The Opening Ceremonies will occur this evening welcoming the world to Edmonton.
Date: Friday, Feb. 28 – 9:00 am -10:30 pm
Location: Louise McKinney Park (Edmonton AB Canada)
Who: FREE Access (VIP Tickets Available)
On day one of the competition, spectators will get to watch climbers compete in both lead ice climbing and speed ice climbing qualifiers throughout the day, wrapping up with an exciting final for speed ice climbing in the evening. Other activities for visitors will include visiting vendors and exhibitors in our winter market, skating, participating in friendly races with ice climbing equipment, playing in the kids zone, trying fat biking, enjoying live performances by local artists, and staying warm by one of many wood burning fire pits that will be found throughout the festival site. There will also be food and beverages available for purchase.
Date: Saturday, Mar. 1 – 9:00 am -10:30 pm
Location: Louise McKinney Park (Edmonton AB Canada)
Who: FREE Access (VIP Tickets Available)
On day two of the competition, spectators will get to watch climbers compete in lead ice climbing semi-finals and finals. Other activities for visitors will be similar to day one including visiting vendors and exhibitors in our winter market, skating, participating in friendly races with ice climbing equipment, playing in the kids zone, trying fat biking, enjoying live performances by local artists, and staying warm by one of many wood burning fire pits that will be found throughout the festival site. There will also be food and beverages available for purchase.
Date: Saturday, Mar. 1 – 9:30 pm – late
Location: TBD (Edmonton AB Canada)
Who: 18+ years old, $10 Cover Charge (FREE Access for VIP, Athletes, Officials, Coaches & Volunteers)
The after party will feature live performances by local artists on the outdoor/indoor rooftop patio. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.
Date: Sunday, Mar. 2 – 8:00 am -5:00 pm
Location: Louise McKinney Park (Edmonton AB Canada)
Who: FREE Access, Pre-registration for climbing clinics and competition required.
This is a free festival to try outdoor activities and engage with local outdoor businesses. There will be clinics available for all levels from never tried it before to experienced ice and mixed climbers. Clinic info HERE & Competition info HERE