Skijordue 2026: Snow, Speed, Style and Cheese

On February 21 and 22, Calgary’s Confluence Historic Site & Parkland transforms into a dynamic festivity of skijoring as fur coats, après style and a fromage fest take over the city for Skijordue 2026. Skijoring is a sport where horses pull skiers at high speeds through obstacles and on jumps, and Calgary’s event promises a lot of speed, big air and impressive tricks.

As the name hints, Skijordue delivers on impressive horse-drawn skiing and incredible fondue offerings. The two-day event, hosted by Skijor Canada, blends western flair with alpine ski culture, bringing together a mix of rugged cowboys, ski enthusiasts and fur-clad fashionistas, united by cheese, adrenaline and style.

“As much as Calgary is a party during the 10 days of stampede, and with the patios on 17th Avenue in the summertime, Skijordue is really a way to reconnect with your friend group in the winter, as well as meet new friends, at a very unique sporting event that is getting the attention of the world right now,” says Alanna Nolan, Skijor Canada team member. “It’s an opportunity to get in while the gettin’s good and have some fun with your friends.”

Greatest show on snow

Skijor is growing in popularity across the globe, and rightly so. The combination of sport, fashion and fun means there’s something for everyone. 

“If you love horses, it’s perfect. If you love skiing, it’s perfect. If you love to dress up, if you love fashion or just love to come for a party, it’s something for you too,” says Nolan. “There’s really something for everybody. And honestly, it’s just a really good time.”

Skijordue 2026 features 20 teams and two performances a day, where attendees can watch horses speeding by and athletes launching off jumps. Expect trick riding and stunt skiing, and entertainment beyond the shows, too.

All-day après

Skijordue’s fun is more than show-stopping ski tricks and horse-riding stunts — it’s an all-day affair. The event features a makers market, spectator style awards, wood fires, craft beers and signature spirits, food trucks and, of course, cheese fondue. Guests take inspiration from the mashup of cowboy and mountain culture and come dressed in their best fur, neon, fringe and denim.

“Imagine going to your favourite ski hill and you’re done on the slopes for the day and you’re surrounded by all your friends having a ton of fun; that’s kind of the vibe that we try to go for with our après race ski party,” says Nolan. 

After the event, wear your fur and fringe to Whiskey Rose Saloon for the official (and late-night) afterparty. 

Spotlight on Skijor Canada

With about 15,000 spectators anticipated at this year’s event, Skijordue highlights Skijor Canada. Founded in 2017, Skijor Canada was created to promote and develop skijoring, which is now the fastest growing winter sport in Canada. Throughout the decade, one thing has remained steadfast: its passion for animal care. 

“Our horses come first,” affirms Nolan. 

Skijor events works closely with veterinarians while advocating for protective gear and traction shoeing for the animals, among other initiatives, to ensure it’s a great time for both two-legged and four-legged athletes.

To learn more and buy your tickets, visit skijorcanada.com.

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