Thu, Feb 11, 2021 @ 9:49PM AST
Are you a “FREXpert?” WINTER Edition!
What, you might ask, is a “FREXpert”? If you can confidently check off at least 10 of the following quintessentially Fredericton activities then guess what? You have the badge, you’re a “FREXpert”!
Download the checklist HERE.
- Enjoyed a snowy excursion around Killarney Lake? At Killarney you can always look forward to 4 seasons worth of beauty and trails that extend from the main trail perimeter that are perfect for hiking, running or walking your dog all year ‘round, but in the winter, it transforms itself into a multi-use playground for ski enthusiasts, snowshoeing, kicksledding (more on that in a future blog!), and so much more!
- You know the best spot for taking a winter sunset photo. We have a few up our sleeve, but the obvious one is the Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge (you can never go wrong with this one!) Now made better with the new benches that double as a photo frame!
- You’ve been to Crabbe Mountain at least once! Crabbe Mountain, a mere 35 minutes from Fredericton, attracts all ages with close to 34 runs, snowshoe and cross-country groomed trails, full rentals and some pretty sweet deals!
- You can estimate when the Saint John River will freeze over. Of course, we all know it is weather dependent, but there are folks who have lived in these parts for a while and can give a pretty accurate prediction! (Fun fact: prior to our modern refrigerators, this is how folks kept their food cold! Men were hired to cut ice chunks out of the Saint John River and deliver house to house for those that needed it!)
- You’ve skated on a local outdoor rink. Fredericton is blessed with both indoor and outdoor rinks, but nothing says “Canadian” like finding a patch of ice and having some fun! Mactaquac Park has an outdoor rink that you can enjoy into the evening and Mitch Clarke Park on the City’s northside has a chilled surface that is available for most of the winter months. To find other city operated outdoor rinks that are open, click here.
- You’ve gone sliding at Mactaquac Park. Do you know that adrenaline rush felt at the point of mounting your crazy carpet over a steep hill? You’ll know what we mean if you’ve ever been sliding at Mactaquac Park; they have 2 distinct sliding hills, one is steeper than the other, so there is fun to be had for the entire family!
- Given Fat Biking a try! This has become a winter favourite for many, just go for a walk on the trails in Fredericton and you are bound to run into a fat bike or two! If you’ve yet to cross this one off your FREXpert list, fat bike rentals are available at Mactaquac Park.
- Sipped the city with the #FredTapTrail! To make taste testing local craft brews in Fredericton extra fun, we partnered with local breweries to create the Fredericton Taproom Trail, a passport-style map showcasing the variety of brews our crafty capital has to offer. Combine outdoor adventure with 11 participating taproom partners in Fredericton, and a chance to win exclusive #FredTapTrail swag. What is there not to love?
- Checked out the Ice Sculpture showcase during FROSTival! These icy wonders are one of the highlights of our annual winter festival, FROSTival!If you’ve been out and about during past FROSTival years, you’ve seen these dotting areas of the downtown, professionally carved out by the very talented Richard Chiasson!
- Watched a local hockey game at the Grant Harvey. Cheer on the home team! Whether it’s the Fredericton Red Wings, UNB or STU teams, these high energy games truly get you into the spirit of community!
- Curled at the Fredericton Winter Club. Curling has always been a Fredericton sport staple, and the Capital Winter Club is its iconic venue for tournaments and recreational events.
- Waited in the freezing cold for delicious market food from a Boyce Farmers Market vendor – We’ve all pretty much done this, right? The sights and smells of the Boyce Market outdoor food stalls are irresistible!
- Participated in Craft Beer Week festivities - This popular beer lovers event happens annually in early March. If you’re a beer afficionado or just like to learn more, this is a “must-do."
- Savoured the flavors of Fredericton with a Dine Around Freddy, 3-course meal – This annual event is an awesome “bang for your buck” with a delectable 3-course meal at local Fredericton restaurants and an awesome way to #SupportFredLocal!
- Sleigh Rides – Nothing like dashing through the snow with a dozen of your closest friends! Places like Sandwith Sleigh Rides and Oakland Farm Lodge have been providing sleigh rides on their property for a number of years.
How many can you check off this list? If you’ve done more than 10, then guess what? You’re a “FREXpert”!
Have we left anything out? For more great ideas on how you can immerse yourself in Fredericton culture (yes, even if you are a local!) visit our website and get ready to #ExploreFredericton!
