Edmonton Mayor Andrew Knack recently shared key insights from an official visit to one of the world's premier winter destinations, aiming to apply those lessons back home. The mayor joined CTV Your Morning Edmonton to discuss his trip to Harbin, China, Edmonton's sister city, and what it revealed about managing winter and boosting tourism.
Lessons from a Winter Tourism Powerhouse
Mayor Knack's journey to Harbin, renowned for its massive Ice and Snow Festival, provided a firsthand look at how a city can embrace its cold climate as an economic and cultural asset. The trip, which took place ahead of his interview on January 13, 2026, focused on understanding Harbin's strategies for snow and ice management, event planning, and creating a vibrant public life during the coldest months.
Knack highlighted the stark contrast in approaches, noting that Harbin's philosophy centers on leveraging winter rather than merely enduring it. The discussion on CTV Your Morning Edmonton revolved around practical takeaways that could be adapted for Alberta's capital, particularly in the realms of snow removal logistics and creating winter-specific attractions to draw visitors.
Potential Impacts on Edmonton's Winter Strategy
The mayor's observations point to potential shifts in how Edmonton manages its seasonal challenges. Key areas of interest include the efficiency of public works during snow events and the possibility of developing larger-scale, family-oriented winter festivals. The sister city relationship with Harbin serves as a direct channel for ongoing dialogue and knowledge exchange on these topics.
While no specific policy announcements were made during the interview, the conversation underscored a proactive search for solutions. Knack's insights suggest that Edmonton's future winter planning may increasingly look to international best practices, especially from cities that have successfully turned a harsh climate into a celebrated part of their identity.
Looking Ahead: A Colder, Brighter Future?
The mayor's trip and subsequent interview signal a growing interest in reimagining Edmonton's relationship with winter. By studying a city like Harbin, which attracts millions of tourists to its sub-zero festivities, Edmonton officials are exploring ways to enhance local quality of life and stimulate the economy during a season often seen as a hurdle.
The core takeaway for residents is a commitment to investigating innovative approaches to snow clearance and winter vibrancy. This international perspective could lead to tangible changes in municipal operations and event planning in the coming years, as the city seeks to write a new, more active chapter in its winter story.
