Beat the Chill: 5 Exciting Weekend Activities in Saskatoon for Jan. 23-25
As temperatures plummet across Saskatchewan, Saskatoon residents need not hibernate indoors. The city offers a vibrant array of cultural, artistic, and family-friendly events designed to entertain while you bundle up against the winter freeze. From literary celebrations to musical performances, here are five standout activities to fill your weekend with warmth and enjoyment.
1. Celebrate Literary Arts at Writing North 16 Festival
The Saskatchewan Writers’ Guild and University of Saskatchewan’s MFA in Writing Program present Writing North 16: Things are Not as They Seem, a weekend festival celebrating diverse writing styles and genres. This event features:
- Interactive presentations and panel discussions
- Featured talk with Anishinaabe author Waubgeshig Rice on history and future writing
- Panel discussion with Emily Riddle, Waubgeshig Rice, Tonia Laird, and host Elena Bentley
- Book table showcasing works by presenting authors
The festival takes place Friday and Saturday in the main lounge at St. Andrew’s College, with masks encouraged and some events available via Zoom livestream.
2. Explore Indigenous Art at Wanuskewin Painting Workshop
Wanuskewin Heritage Park hosts Cree Creation Stories, a hands-on painting workshop led by current artist-in-residence Chris Chipak. This unique experience includes:
- Instruction from Chipak, an Indigenous artist from Red Pheasant Cree Nation
- Exploration of traditional Cree creation stories through art
- Storytelling elements infused throughout the creative process
While aimed at youth, this workshop welcomes participants of all ages on Saturday at noon at Wanuskewin Heritage Park.
3. Experience Disney Magic with Live Orchestra Performance
The Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra partners with Disney Concerts to present Disney’s Beauty and the Beast in Concert, featuring:
- Live performance of Alan Menken’s Oscar-winning score by the SSO
- Screening of the beloved animated classic
- Conducted by Kevin Zakresky
This magical concert brings the timeless story of Belle and the Beast to life on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at TCU Place.
4. Discover Wildlife Tracking with Young Naturalists Workshop
The Saskatoon Nature Society presents a Young Naturalists tracks and scats workshop designed for children ages five to eleven. Participants will:
- Learn basic animal track patterns of local wildlife
- Create plaster track crafts to take home
- Explore outdoor areas for actual animal tracks (weather permitting)
This educational event requires adult accompaniment and takes place Sunday at 1 p.m. in the Affinity Learning Centre at Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park and Zoo.
5. Join the 10th Annual Winterruption Celebration
Marking its tenth anniversary, Winterruption offers various winter-themed activities and entertainment throughout the weekend. While specific details for this year’s edition continue to emerge, this longstanding Saskatoon tradition typically features:
- Live music and performances
- Winter sports and recreational activities
- Community gatherings celebrating seasonal spirit
Check local listings for complete Winterruption schedule and participating venues.
Despite the forecasted cold snap, Saskatoon proves that winter weather need not dampen community spirit. These five diverse events offer something for every interest—whether you prefer literary discussions, artistic creation, musical performances, nature exploration, or seasonal festivals. Each activity provides not just entertainment, but opportunities for learning, cultural engagement, and community connection during the coldest months.
