This year, get in the spirit of the season by attending one of the many family-friendly events and attractions in Greater Edmonton. You’ll discover a sleigh full of options to spark some holiday cheer, including lights, food, nature, and music. It will also warm your heart to know that many of these events support local charities.
Click any of the headings below for more details. It’s a good idea to check the event’s website or social media feed for updates, hours, cancellations and possible blackout dates.
Canadian Tire Magic of Lights
Starting November 21, take the family for a memorable holiday light show, all from the comfort of your vehicle. Even though this event is held at a race track (Rad Torque Raceway in Leduc County), it’s all about slowing down and enjoying the 2.5 kilometre path of spectacular LED light displays and animations. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to 630 CHED Santas Anonymous and Canadian Tire JumpStart.
Santa’s Breakfast
This popular annual event returns to the Edmonton Convention Centre for 2024. On December 1, kick off the holiday season with a buffet breakfast and plenty of family-friendly activity stations, including a photo with Santa. It’s all for a good cause: the University Hospital Foundation’s Festival of Trees fundraising campaign.
glow yeg
The Edmonton EXPO Centre will shine brightly from December 4 to 31 during the Glow exhibit. This year’s theme is “Christmas Carnival” and offers a variety of kid-friendly activities under the big top. Family members of all ages will enjoy the LED dance floor, delicious food, holiday entertainment, and shopping at the Merry Maker’s Market.
Edmonton Christmas Market
From November 28 to December 15, Fort Edmonton Park comes alive with the Edmonton Christmas Market. You’ll enjoy the captivating light displays, unique culinary experiences, festive entertainment, and a local market of over 100 vendors. Enjoy a day out with the family and find a unique gift for everyone on your list.
Luminaria
For three weekends only (December 13-15, 20-22, and 27-29), Luminaria returns to the University of Alberta Botanic Garden, southwest of Edmonton. In a return to a simpler time, this year’s night-time displays will feature mainly candlelight, starlight and firelight. A quiet walk down the softly lit pathways of the Kurimoto Japanese Gardens gives new meaning to the phrase “peace on earth.”
Zoominescence
Now in its 12th year, Zoominescence is a collection of artistic light exhibits hosted by the Edmonton Valley Zoo and The Valley Zoo Development Society. Think of it as a combined celebration of light, art, and animal conservation. Zoominescence will be open for a total of 24 days between November 29 and January 1 — visit the website for specific dates and times.
The Singing Christmas Tree
The centrepiece of this musical performance is a a 35-foot-tall Christmas tree, holding 150 of Alberta’s finest choir singers. This glorious show will be at the Edmonton EXPO Centre Arena for a limited time, from December 12 to 15. Led by conductor Emmanuel Fonte, a full orchestra provides accompaniment for the choir as well as guest singers and dancers. It’s an experience you have to see (and hear) to believe.
Borealis Lights
Located just outside Edmonton in St. Albert, Borealis Lights is a drive-through exhibit featuring over 800,000 twinkling lights. A new feature for 2024 is an illuminated tree that is 85 feet high — that’s the height of two school buses stacked vertically! For the duration of the event (November 22 to January 5), a portion of every ticket sold will be donated to the Kinsmen Club of St. Albert.
Fort Saskatchewan’s Enchanted Forest
Located a short drive northeast of Edmonton, Fort Saskatchewan hosts an annual tradition called The Enchanted Forest. From November 29 to January 7, local organizations and businesses create unique and beautiful Christmas trees to celebrate the holiday season. The trees are on display at multiple locations, including City Hall, the Public Library, and the Dow Centennial Centre.
Outdoor Ice Skating
Sharpen your blades and get ready for a truly Canadian experience: ice skating. Edmonton has many outdoor skating venues, including City Hall, Rundle Park Iceway, and Ice District Plaza. Before you go, check online to confirm the rink’s operating times and ice conditions. Depending on your skill level, be sure to wear appropriate protective equipment, such as a helmet and elbow pads. A steaming cup of hot chocolate will taste so good afterwards!
For more pre-Christmas events in the Edmonton area, such as light displays and local Santa Claus parades, visit Family Fun Edmonton.
