The Calgary Folk Fest's Block Heater ignites The Confluence, February 5–7, 2026. Powered by ATB.
The Calgary Folk Music Festival’s 11th annual winter celebration moves to The Confluence February 5–7, 2026, powered by ATB — where the Bow and Elbow rivers meet, and where music and community collide for an all-encompassing winter wonderland filled with great vibes, local food vendors, a skating rink, kids programming, firepits, and all sorts of folkie family fun.
Featuring headlining performances by Cedric Burnside, Field Guide, Fruit Bats (solo), Goldie Boutilier, Jeremie Albino, Joel Plaskett, and The War and Treaty.
Our reimagined Block Heater is the winter's answer to our summer festival — with multiple stages, collaborative sessions, food trucks, family programming and so much more. With flexible ticket options, youth/student/senior discounts AND kids 12 and under get in free, Block Heater is bound to set your soul aflame this February.
Curate your own Block Heater experience for you and your loved ones. Starting off with our exclusive Thursday kick-off party at Festival Hall (limited tickets available, so act fast!) Get a weekend pass and gain access to all our shows at The Confluence on Friday and Saturday. Single day passes for Friday and Saturday also available. NEW THIS YEAR: Saturday afternoon and Saturday evening tickets can be purchased separately. Youth/Student/Senior discounts available. Oh, and kids 12 and under get in free!
635 Confluence Way S.E.
From
$129–$149
Alt Hotel Calgary East Village is located just steps from the Bow River and all of the area’s amenities and attractions, including Prince’s Island Park. It features boldly designed rooms in a state-of-the-art structure, outfitted with eco-friendly technologies. Free wifi, a 24-hour gym and the Chix Egg Shop are other features. Take in the energy of a completely revitalized neighbourhood, just minutes from downtown.
Book now525 5 Ave. SW
From
$137
Their sleek, contemporary design reflects the new modern Courtyard style, setting the stage for an exceptional stay. Nestled in the vibrant heart of Calgary's downtown, mere moments from Eau Claire Market and the serene Prince's Island Park, they offer a sleek, contemporary design in an unparalleled location. Step into our expansive fitness centre, where a wealth of cardio and fitness equipment, along with free weights, await to invigorate your wellness journey.
Book now630 4 Ave SW
From
$175
The Westley is located just steps from the west end of Prince’s Island Park and includes the wonderful Fonda Fora Mexican-inspired restaurant. Dressed for success, poised for adventure, we go beyond expectation. It’s established, but the warmth of a boutique. Functional but comfortable, modern yet vintage, reputable and whimsical, our hotel is the crossroads where people come to meet, gather, and experience.
We love our Block Heater volunteers! Every year our small but mighty volunteer team helps bring the heat to Calgary. Thank you for everything that you do. This Block Heater is bigger than ever. Returning volunteers: check your inboxes and let us know your intentions! Interested in becoming a first time volunteer? Fill out our new volunteer application below to get in on the fun!
Heather Buchanan is an artist, illustrator, and author based in Calgary Alberta. Her art deals with the human condition—specifically the condition of being a human who is barely hanging on in these wild and bewildering times. She has worked with clients like Netflix, Virgin, and the Globe and Mail, as well as local companies like High Line Brewing, Calgary Co-op, and Purr. That said, you’re more likely to see her work framed and hanging above the toilet in your best friend’s bathroom. Not only does Heather make art about the unfathomable mysteries of human behaviour, she occasionally participates in them. You can find her talking to herself in the garden, doing crosswords with her husband and cat, and microwaving the same cup of tea over and over.
Block Heater is a vibrant, nomadic music festival which has been housed in Inglewood, the East Village and downtown at indoor venues and Olympic Plaza. It has evolved into a significant mid-February oasis that defrosts the winter blues with an inspiring and diverse line-up. Block Heater has welcomed many marquee artists, including:
Andy Shauf • Chad VanGaalen • Daniel Romano • Damien Jurado • Elliott BROOD • Heartless Bastards • Jeremy Dutcher •Justin Townes Earle • Kid Koala • Kathleen Edwards • Raine Maida & Chantal Kreviazuk • Tanya Tagaq • The Devil Makes Three • The Milk Carton Kids • Reuben and the Dark • Shane Koyczan • Snotty Nose Rez Kids • Valerie June
