The days may be short, but the festivities last all season long! Find a reason to celebrate at these holiday events in the city.
(Shopping for that special someone? Check out one of these Edmonton craft fairs for amazing gift ideas.)
LIGHT THE NIGHT
All is Bright | November 25
Delay the coming of the dark winter season by celebrating all that is bright in the great outdoors! From brilliant light displays designed by local artists to live musical acts, everything at this fantastic fest is free and fun for the whole family.
124 St. between 102 Ave. & 108 Ave.
Luminaria | December 1–3
Thousands of candles light the pathways in the snow-covered Kurimoto Japanese Garden at the University of Alberta Botanic Garden. Wander the breathtaking space and enjoy the ice sculptures and strolling a cappella singers, and then warm up at the bonfire with hot apple cider.
Hwy 60, 5 km North of Devon, 20 minutes from West Edmonton Mall
Candy Cane Lane | December 8 – January 2
Grab a hot chocolate or apple cider, and stroll down Candy Cane Lane to see all the illuminated splendours of the season. For over 40 years, the residents of Crestwood in Edmonton have been spreading holiday cheer and trying to one-up each other with impressive light displays.
148 St. between 92 Ave. & 100 Ave.
Zoominescence | December 1–31
Every weekend in December will include this celebration of light, artistry, and imagination, including several special submissions to celebrate Canada’s 150th anniversary and its future.
Admire the dazzling light installations created by local artists, participate in festive crafts, and visit the animals at the Edmonton Valley Zoo!
13315 Buena Vista Rd.
Castrol Raceway’s Magic of Lights | November 17 – January 7
Festive and vibrant LED illuminated displays create a magical 2 km route! Enjoy the spectacular light displays and animations from the comfort of your own vehicle.
Highway 19 & Highway 2 (2 km West), Nisku.
ROCKIN’ AROUND THE TREE
Festival of Trees | November 30 – December 3
This event brings together over 100 magnificently decorated trees, festive displays, and uniquely decorated cakes and gingerbread houses. Enjoy family scavenger hunts, live entertainment, and a special visit from Santa.
Shaw Conference Centre, 9797 Jasper Ave.
The Singing Christmas Tree | December 14–17
Enjoy the whimsical magic of this local holiday tradition as 150 carollers pack a 35-foot Christmas tree along with thousands of dazzling lights. With dancing Santas, beautiful ballerinas, and a live orchestra accompanying the popular holiday songs, this is fun for the whole family.
Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium, 11455-87 Ave.
A BIT OF SPLENDOUR
Celebrate the Season | December 7–23
Visit the Alberta Legislature Grounds to see trees covered in every illustrious colour. Every weekday afternoon and evening features performances from a live choir!
Alberta Legislature Building, 9820-107 St.
Venetian Carnival Christmas Party | December 9
Don your classiest attire and pick up a mask upon arrival. This fun-filled event includes an elegant four-course dinner and epic entertainment, from a string quartet to comedy and improv acts to a dance party with Belle Aggio.
Shaw Conference Centre, 9797 Jasper Ave.
SANTA SIGHTINGS
Santa’s Parade of Lights | November 18
Bundle up and find the ideal spot to watch the glowing floats and Santa himself pass by! Grab a tasty treat from one of the food trucks near the parade route.
Jasper Ave. between 100 St. & 108 St.
A Prairie Gardens Christmas | December 9–10
Head to the cozy and rustic Prairie Gardens and Adventure Farm and get a family photo with Santa! The weekend of Christmas family fun includes many holiday activities, including bale mazes, treats from Mrs. Claus, fun music and magic shows, and more.
56311 Lily Lake Rd., 25 km north of Edmonton
Holiday Celebration | December 10
Hit the slopes and bask in the holiday cheer at Snow Valley! Get your picture with Santa, enjoy holiday crafts, and even listen to carollers by the fire.
119 St. one block South off Whitemud Dr.
