How to Get to the Festival
Cold Bones Fest takes place in the heart of downtown Drumheller, Alberta, with all venues located within a small, walkable area. Whether you’re coming from out of town or making your way in from a nearby community, here’s everything you need to know to get here smoothly — even in the middle of winter.
By Car
Most festivalgoers arrive by car, and Drumheller is easily accessible from several Alberta cities.
Driving Times (Approximate):
– Calgary → Drumheller: 1 hr 30 min
– Red Deer → Drumheller: 1 hr 45 min
– Edmonton → Drumheller: 3 hr 15 min
– Lethbridge → Drumheller: 3 hr 30 min
Highways are generally well maintained, but February weather can be unpredictable. Plan for extra time if the roads are snowy or icy.
Winter driving tips:
– Check road conditions before leaving (511 Alberta)
– Make sure your vehicle has winter tires
– Keep an emergency blanket, charger, and winter gear
– Fill up your tank — rural stretches can be long
Parking in Drumheller
The good news: there is free parking near every Cold Bones Fest venue.
Downtown Drumheller has plenty of on-street and public-lot parking within a short walk of all stages, restaurants, and wristband pick-up. Spaces can fill quickly during peak showtimes, so arriving a little early is recommended — but once you’re parked, you’re set for the night.
Rideshare & Taxi Options
– Drumheller does not have Uber or Lyft.
– A few local taxi companies operate in town, but availability is limited, especially on winter weekends.
Plan ahead if you expect to need a ride after shows.
Flying In
For out-of-province visitors:
– The closest major airport is Calgary International Airport (YYC)
– From YYC, Drumheller is about 1 hr 20 min by car, depending on conditions
– Car rentals are available at the airport
Walking Once You Arrive
Nearly every Cold Bones venue is located within a short walking distance in downtown Drumheller. After you park or get dropped off, getting around is simple and festival-friendly.
Bring warm layers — it’s February in the Badlands — and enjoy wandering between venues, cafés, shops, and the many dinosaur statues sprinkled around town.
Plan Ahead. Arrive Safe. Enjoy Fully.
Whether you’re coming from two blocks away or across the province, we want your trip to Cold Bones Fest to be easy, safe, and stress-free. Check the weather, plan your route, and give yourself a little extra time — then settle in for an incredible winter weekend in the Badlands.
Cold Bones Fest respectfully acknowledges that we are on Treaty 7 territory, the ancestral and traditional territory of the Blackfoot Confederacy: Kainai, Piikani, and Siksika, as well as the Tsuut’ina First Nation and the Stoney Nakoda First Nation. We recognize the land as an act of reconciliation and gratitude to those on whose territory we reside.