It’s back. One of the craziest ideas ever executed in Edmonton returns for the world championship. Pitched as “downhill ice cross”, the race involves 4 participants speeding down a steep course completely covered in ice on skates. Yup, downhill skate races are a thing and you need to see it.
The event is a huge draw. It all happens March 9 -10 at a course starting at Jasper Avenue and 96 st. and ends near the river valley below. The course itself is something to see even if you can’t get tickets to watch the races. 455 meters of sheer ice, massive vertical descents, and jumps. Yes, they actually perform jumps on skates while racing.
This one is really weather dependent as the condition of the course requires some cooler temperatures but hopefully not too cold so we can all enjoy a winter day out. SkirtsAFire is happening that weekend too and there are some scheduled events during the afternoon that would make for a great day downtown. Maybe try Yoga in the Art or a Bellydancing workshop if you’re feeling bold. The Nina Haggerty Gallery is hosting an exhibit on that Friday as well. After an afternoon downtown, pick up some coffee and head to the track!
Post Race decisions
Now that you’ve built up an appetite, is it beer, cocktails, or wine?
Tres Carnales (Beer)
Great decision. Now it’s time to head to Tres Carnales for some tacos and beer. It’s been open for a while now but this place still seems like it just opened. There’s always something new and noteworthy on the menu so make sure to convince whomever you’re with to share. There is nothing worse than staring across the table at someone thoroughly enjoying the dish you foolishly passed over on the menu. Make a pact from the beginning to ensure you don’t suffer an unnecessary FOMO.
Woodwork (Cocktails)
We like your style. Find a seat at the bar and commit to getting a hands-on education that, if you’re not careful, you may not remember tomorrow. Start with drinks and ask the bartender to help you pick something if your heart’s not already set. You’ll end up with an incredibly well-balanced drink appropriate for the season which a lot of us stuck in our ways can miss out on. (I unapologetically pretend it’s constantly summer in my mind) Now that you’ve got a drink going, order some food and settle in for the night. It’s one the most relaxing evenings you can have. Good drinks, a beautiful space, and the smell of their wood-fired kitchen.
Tzin (Wine)
Can’t go wrong! Time to book a spot at this cozy wine bar because it fills up fast. Pick a bottle to share with your group and then just fall into a long conversation about Russian authors or some other stimulating topic of your own choice… The Tapas is pretty good here and you should try as much as you can all handle. Spread it out through the night and take snack breaks when the Chekhov discussion gets too heavy. It’s important to pace yourself so that you can complete the entire menu marathon. Good luck.
Hopefully, we’ll see some of you out and about this weekend. Come say hi if you see us!
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