Hot winter dates from Vancouver to Ottawa
Canadians know that tucking in for a long, cold winter doesn't mean you have to stay at home, waiting for warmer weather. Grab your sweetheart and create some warm memories at the many events and venues across this country.
Vancouver
Develop a new hobby with your sweetie at Grouse Mountain where you can learn to snowshoe or join an experienced snowshoe guide for an evening snowshoe tour, followed by a cheese and chocolate fondue.
If you can bear the crowds, take in any of the free concerts and events in conjunction with the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics, which will take over most of the area's venues, from parks and hotels to museums and restaurants.
Edmonton
Carve out a new tradition by visiting the Ice on Whyte Festival at Festival Park in Old Strathcona from January 14-24. Artists from all over the world will participate in an ice carving competition. Cap off your light-tastic evening with a romantic dinner at La Boheme.
Calgary
Take in the beauty and romance of dance at the Alberta Ballet, Canada's third largest ballet company. Check out the Calgary club scene at Cowboys or Aussie Rules Foodhouse & Bar.
Saskatoon
Ignite some magic by visiting the SIGA Enchanted Forest between Nov. 20, 2008 to Jan. 10, 2010. This event, at the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park, features a million coloured lights and offers up one of Canada's most unique seasonal light shows. Or spend a day the Wanuskewin Heritage Park — don't miss a stop at the restaurant, where you can chow down on First Nations cuisine including BBQ bison hump, baked bannock, or a bison smokie.
Winnipeg
Grab your skates or your toboggan and head out to The Forks (at the junction of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers), where you can enjoy an afternoon of invigorating physical activity. Wind the day down with a great meal at one of the nearby full-service restaurants: Beachcombers' & Ba Ja Beach Club, Finn McCue's, Sushi Train at the Forks, or Sydney's at the Forks.
Toronto
Take in a day of skating at the Natrel Skating Rink at Harbourfront Centre, then reward your exercise efforts with a candlelight dinner at the Boiler House in the Distillery Historic District.
Ottawa
Revel in winter by taking in different aspects of Ottawa's Winterlude:
Taste of Winterlude
Various restaurants
January 28 to February 21, 2010
Indulge in Canada's Capital Region's culinary scene through special menus, unique dining experiences and exciting culinary events.
Winterlude
Various locations
February 5 to 21, 2010
A unique winter festival featuring snow and ice sculpture competitions, snow playgrounds, and skating and sporting events which transform Ottawa into a winter wonderland.
Winterlude Stew Cook-Off
ByWard Market
Feb. 5, 2010
Over 20 renowned ByWard Market restaurants compete to produce the best stews in an outdoor all-you-can-eat charity luncheon.
