Market Square and Gather Local Market will once again be transformed and welcome residents and visitors to Nutrien Wintershines. The 2026 theme is Footsteps & Stories and will help us stay grounded with the foundational footsteps and stories that helped build this place and make it what it is today.
From snowy footprints to shared stories, WinterShines celebrates connecting community, land and sky. Visitors can enjoy outdoor favourites like pony rides, ball hockey, stargazing and snowy play, alongside warm indoor programming including creative workshops, puzzling, and movies. Signature events return this year, including the ever-popular Soup Cook-Offs, where local culinary talent and community spirit come together for the ultimate winter warm-up.
Whether you drop in on a whim or plan your visit in advance, WinterShines offers daily free programming alongside select ticketed experiences, with the festival calendar your go-to for reserving spots and planning around specific interests.
Festival highlights at a glance:
WinterShines invites everyone to lean into our February weather and embrace it fully with a big warm hug. Celebrate all that winter in Saskatoon brings, and stay playful and connected with each other.