Tis the season! Sleigh your holiday plans with the best things to do during Christmas in Edmonton!
Deck the halls and get ready for a holly jolly season! YEG is sparkling with twinkling lights, festive cheer, and more holiday magic than I can count.
With merry markets and dazzling light displays, I can’t wait to sip cocoa and immerse myself in all the festive fun. There’s truly no shortage of ways to make this season merry and bright.
So, grab your winter jumper and get ready to feel the holiday magic. Let’s unwrap the best things to do during Christmas in Edmonton!
Visit festive light displays and seasonal Attractions
Glow Edmonton
– Media from glow_edmonton
Website: https://glowyeg.ca/
Address: 7515 118 Ave NW
Glow is Edmonton’s largest indoor holiday festival, featuring a light garden, circus-inspired entertainment, and themed nights for kids. The event also offers a virtual reality ride on Santa’s sleigh, live performances, and holiday-themed games.
For younger children, Glow has a special toddler play area where they can enjoy a quieter holiday experience. The festival also includes Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen with cookies from A Worthy Cookie, accessible paths, and a sensory-friendly event.
| Pro Tips: Bring your Santa letters to Glow. It’s a special way for children to share their wishes! Consider the Super Flex Pass for added flexibility, allowing you to visit Glow on any day or time that suits you. Just keep in mind that tickets are limited, so grab yours soon! |
Candy Cane Lane
– Media from yegcandycanelane
Website: https://www.crestwoodcommunityleague.ca/candycanelane
Address: 9903 147 St NW
Operating Hours: Open daily (every December) – 5 AM to 11 PM
Candy Cane Lane, a festive tradition since 1968, lights up Edmonton’s Crestwood neighbourhood each holiday season. What started as a community initiative has grown into a beloved display of twinkling lights, colourful decorations, and the joy of Christmas.
Past events have featured sleigh rides, public fire pits, and a neighbourhood transformed into a winter wonderland. Visitors can also enjoy live entertainment, participate in community activities, and support local charities through festive donations.
| Pro Tip: While walking through the area, be mindful of slippery sidewalks, and note that cars and buses are allowed for those who prefer not to walk. |
Zoominescence
– Media from edmontonvalleyzoo
Website: https://www.buildingourzoo.com/
Address: 13315 Buena Vista Road &, 87 Ave NW
Phone: +1 780 442 5311
Operating Hours: Last week of November to January 1, 4:30 PM to 10 PM
Zoominescence is a winter event at the Edmonton Valley Zoo featuring stunning light displays and festive activities. Visitors can enjoy an ice skating rink, reindeer talks, ice sculptures, and beautiful light installations over the course of 24 days.
The event is unique because it takes place at night, offering a chance to explore the zoo after hours. Many animals, especially nocturnal species, are more active in the evening, making for a special experience during the holiday season.
| Pro Tip: Dress warmly and bring a pair of gloves, as the night air can get chilly while you explore the zoo’s festive lights and activities. |
Shop at Christmas markets
Edmonton Christmas Market
– Media from yegxmasmarket
Website: https://www.yegxmasmarket.com/
Address: Fort Edmonton Midway, 7000 143 St NW
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday & Thursday – 3 PM to 9 PM
- Friday – 3 PM to 10 PM
- Saturday – 12 PM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 9 PM
The Edmonton Christmas Market features over 100 Alberta artisans and brands, with charming outdoor market huts and indoor venues to explore. Visitors can browse unique handcrafted gifts and discover a variety of seasonal treasures.
Food and drink options include festive favourites like mulled wine, hard apple cider, maple candy, and holiday baked goods!
| Pro Tips Save money by purchasing general admission tickets online in advance, as gate prices are higher. It’s a simple way to stretch your holiday budget while enjoying the market. Bring a debit or credit card, as cash isn’t accepted inside the market. Alternatively, you can purchase Christmas Cash at the box office for use onsite. |
Odd Bird Art & Craft Fair
– Media from ee.inked
Website: https://www.oddbirdfair.ca/
Address: Old Strathcona Performing Arts Centre, 8426 Gateway Blvd
Admission Fee: $5
The OddBird Art & Craft Fair features over 100 artists and community organizations. Visitors can find a variety of items, including ceramics, indie literature, beadwork, textiles, art prints, and toys, perfect for Christmas shopping.
The 2024 fair included vendors like Flannel Foxes, Emily Chu, and Alyson Davies, showcasing apparel, art, ceramics, and jewellery. Community organizations such as Latitude 53 and Metro Cinema also participated, adding to the vibrant local culture.
| Pro Tips: For a quieter shopping experience, try visiting on Sunday between 10 AM and 11 AM or 3 PM and 4 PM, when the fair is usually less crowded. These hours offer a more relaxed atmosphere for browsing. |
Enjoy theatrical and musical performances
A Christmas Carol at the Citadel Theatre
– Media from citadeltheatreyeg
Website: https://secure.citadeltheatre.com/events
Address: 9828 101 A Avenue
Phone: +1 780 425 1820
Yearly, the Citadel hosts its holiday tradition, A Christmas Carol. David van Belle’s adaptation of the Charles Dickens classic takes audiences to the 1950s, featuring nostalgic songs like “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and “White Christmas.”
When I watched the play, I was impressed by the lively, music-filled production, especially Daryl Ullyatt’s powerful portrayal of Scrooge. The set design also stood out, with its revolving doors and dramatic lighting that brought the ghostly scenes to life.
| Pro Tip: While outside food and drinks aren’t allowed in the Citadel theatres, you can bring in refreshments purchased from the lobby or Ghostlight by Milkcrate. Be sure to grab a snack before the show starts! |
The Singing Christmas Tree at the Edmonton EXPO Centre
– Media from edmontonexpocentre
Website: https://edmontonexpocentre.com/events/
Address: 7515 118 Ave NW
Phone: +1 780 471 7377
The Singing Christmas Tree is a holiday tradition featuring a 35-foot-tall tree surrounded by millions of sparkling lights. It’s home to 150 of Alberta’s finest choir singers, creating a festive celebration of music and Christmas spirit.
Led by conductor Emmanuel Fonte, the performance includes a full orchestra and special appearances from renowned stage singers and dancers. The event brings the joy of Christmas to life through music and stunning visual displays.
| Pro Tips: Be sure to dress appropriately with a shirt and shoes, and avoid clothing featuring offensive language or symbols. This will ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience for everyone. Make sure to stop by the venue’s food court for a quick bite if you’re on the go. With options like burgers, pizza, and Asian dishes, you’ll find something to suit your taste. |
Die Harsh: A Christmas Musical with Grindstone Theatre
– Media from gordsteinke
Website: https://www.grindstonetheatre.ca/dieharsh
Address: Varied locations
Die Harsh is a Christmas parody of Die Hard, featuring a cop battling terrorists to save his wife and hostages during a holiday party. The 2024 performance was set at the Orange Hub and featured a live trio playing hip-hop to German folk music.
I couldn’t stop laughing at the over-the-top action and the tap-dancing FBI agents! It’s a fun twist on a Christmas classic, full of surprises that keep you entertained from start to finish.
| Pro Tips: Doors open 30 minutes before showtime. Arriving early helps you settle in and enjoy the atmosphere.Groups of 15 or more can save big with 15% off and waived service fees—perfect for holiday parties. Contact [email protected] to customize your package with catering or VIP upgrades. |
Handel’s Messiah at Winspear Theatre
– Media from winspearcentre
Website: https://www.winspearcentre.com/tickets/
Address: 4 Sir Winston Churchill Square Northwest & Corner of 99 Street &, 102 Ave NW
Phone: +1 780 428 1414
Handel’s Messiah is a holiday tradition at the Winspear Theatre, known for its beautiful arias, moving recitatives, and the iconic “Hallelujah” chorus. Composed in 1741, this performance will be conducted by Timothy Shantz.
The concert runs approximately 2.5 hours, including an intermission, offering plenty of time to enjoy the full experience. It also features the Richard Eaton Singers with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra.
| Pro Tip: Business casual is a safe bet for Edmonton Symphony Orchestra concerts, but you’ll see everything from jeans to formal wear. Dress in what makes you feel comfortable, as the Winspear Centre welcomes all styles. |
Candlelight Christmas at the Muttart Conservatory
– Media from muttartconservatory
Website: https://feverup.com/en/edmonton/candlelight
Address: 9626 96a St NW
Admission Fee: $45
Candlelight Christmas is a beloved tradition for over 20 years, featuring two 45-minute performances by the McDades. It’s held in the feature pyramid and centre court, with an intermission offering seasonal drinks.
These performances create a magical atmosphere with live music in a space illuminated by candlelight. The intimate, warm setting enhances the experience, making it a unique holiday tradition.
| Pro Tip: Arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure your spot in your designated seating zone. Please note that latecomers won’t be allowed entry or receive a refund. |
Outdoor Winter Activities
Skate at ICE District Plaza
– Media from icedistrict
Website: https://icedistrict.com/skating/
Address: 10360 102 St NW
Phone: +1 780 414 5483
Operating Hours: Open daily – 10 AM to 10 PM
The ICE District Plaza offers a fantastic ice skating experience with plenty of space to enjoy the winter activity. The large rink is open to the public and provides a scenic setting for skaters.
Aside from ice skating, the plaza hosts markets, festivals, and concerts throughout the year. Its central location and ample amenities make it a great spot for a variety of events and gatherings.
| Pro Tips: Since skate rentals aren’t available at the ICE District Plaza rink, be sure to rent your skates at Totem Outdoor Outfitters before you head over. Children under 8 need to be accompanied on the ice and supervised by someone aged 13 or older. Skating aids are available for those who need a little extra help while skating. |
Sled at Emily Murphy Park
– Media from leoandary
Address: 11624 Saskatchewan Drive NW
Emily Murphy Park offers a great spot for sledding, with a steep hill that levels out at the bottom for a smooth landing. It’s an ideal location for tobogganing or kick-sledding, with snow-covered slopes ideal for winter fun.
The park is also equipped with convenient amenities, including firepits, bathrooms, and a playground. It’s a popular choice for families and groups looking to enjoy a day outdoors in the winter.
| Pro Tip: For a safe and fun sledding experience, always check that the hill is clear before you start and walk up the sides, not through the sledding area. After sledding at the park, warm up with a hot drink at nearby cozy cafes. Cafe Versailles and Iconoclast Coffee are just a short distance away. |
Snowshoe with River Valley Co.
– Media from rivervalleyadventureyeg
Website: https://www.rivervalleyadventure.com/
Address: 9731 Grierson Hill NW
Phone: +1 780 995 7347
Operating Hours: Thursday to Monday – 12 PM to 4 PM
Snowshoeing is a fantastic way to embrace the Christmas season, offering a traditional and fun way to travel through the snowy landscape. Perfect for exploring festive winter scenery and spotting wildlife, it’s a magical way to enjoy the season’s beauty.
To get the most from your experience, consider joining a guided tour with River Valley. It includes a 60-minute snowshoe tour for $30 per person (minimum of four people), with expert guides showing you the best routes at your pace.
| Pro Tip: If you prefer to go at your own pace, rent YUKON MP snowshoes at River Valley. They make walking through deep snow easier and are available for just $9 per hour or $30 per day. |
Ski at Edmonton’s River Valley
– Media from edmontonnordic
Trail Locations:
- Argyll Park – 6750 88 St NW
- Capilano Park – Capilano Park Rd NW
- Gold Bar Park – 10955 50 St NW
Edmonton’s River Valley offers a variety of groomed cross-country ski trails, perfect for all skill levels. Trails are maintained by the City and Edmonton Nordic Ski Club, making it a great spot for outdoor winter adventures.
Popular ski spots include Argyll Park, Capilano Park, Gold Bar Park, and more. For added convenience, emergency phones are located along the trails, and some parks, like Gold Bar and Kinsmen, are lit for evening skiing.
| Pro Tips: For beginners or those looking to improve, check out the City of Edmonton’s learn-to-ski classes through Move Learn Play or Edmonton Nordic Club. Download the SkiYEG by Track ‘N Trail app to easily discover ski trails around Edmonton and get real-time updates on conditions. It’s available for both Android and iOS. |
Go tubing with Rabbit Hill
– Media from skirabbithill
Website: https://www.rabbithill.com/winter/
Address: 20715 57 Ave SW
Phone: +1 780 955 2440
Admission Fee: $20
Operating Hours:
- Friday – 6 PM to 9 PM
- Saturday, Sunday, Holiday – 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, 2 PM to 4 PM
Winter tubing in the North Saskatchewan River valley is a fun, safe way to enjoy the snow, with riders sliding down slopes on inflatable tubes. It’s suitable for all ages and requires no hiking back up the hill, making it an easy choice for families.
With Rabbit Hill, there are three lanes to enjoy, with linked tubes of 2 or 3 allowed, depending on snow conditions. The conveyor lift takes you to the top, where you can race down and enjoy the beautiful winter scenery.
| Pro Tip: If you’re planning a group outing, book early to secure your spot for the winter season. Remember, a minimum of 15 participants is required for group bookings. |
Family-Friendly Holiday Fun
Order a three-course feast at Sunterra Market
– Media from sunterramarket
Website: https://www.sunterramarket.com
Address: 10150 Jasper Ave #201
Phone: +1 780 426 3791
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 7 AM to 5 PM
Sunterra Market offers special three-course feasts for Christmas and New Year’s Eve, with four entrée options, including a vegetarian choice. These festive meals can be ordered individually or in groups of four, with delivery or pickup available.
I tried Sunterra’s menu for our Christmas Eve dinner, which included roasted salmon, paella, and delicious desserts like mini key lime pie and tres leches cup. At $20.99 to $29.99 per meal, it felt like a festive treat without overspending.
| Pro Tip: Remember, these meals require reheating, so be sure to follow the instructions for the best results. |
Dine at 4404 Restaurant
– Media from deltaedmsouthofficial
Address: Delta Hotels Edmonton South, 4404 Gateway Blvd
Phone: +1 780 431 3468
Operating Hours: Open daily – 6 AM to 11 AM
The Christmas Day buffet brunch at Delta Edmonton’s 4404 Restaurant offers a variety of festive dishes. Guests can enjoy a selection of pastries, a chef-attended omelette station, a charcuterie display, a holiday carving station, and traditional entrées.
Additional highlights include a salad bar and an array of festive desserts. Prices for the brunch are $60 for adults, $55 for seniors, $27 for children aged 6–12, and free for children 5 and under.
| Pro Tip: If you’re hosting at home this holiday season, consider Delta Edmonton’s annual Turkey to Go Dinner, which serves up to 15 people. Be sure to order by December 20th and pick up between 11 AM and 5 PM on December 24th or 25th. |
Stay in one of Fantasyland Hotel’s themed rooms
– Media from fantasyland_hotel
Website: https://flh.ca/
Address: 17700 87 Ave NW
Phone: +1 800 737 3783
Fantasyland Hotel offers a variety of fantasy-themed rooms designed to recreate unique destinations or eras. Rooms feature flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, minifridges, and coffeemakers, with some including whirlpool tubs or separate living spaces in suites.
Theme rooms include Roman, Space, Hollywood, Igloo, Polynesian, Western, and more, all family-friendly. Check-in is at 4 PM, and check-out is at 11 AM.
| Pro Tip: Enjoy a meal at the hotel’s classic grill restaurant, featuring hardwood floors and leather seating. While you’re there, take advantage of its location—just a 6-minute walk to World Waterpark and Galaxyland and 7 km from Fort Edmonton Park. |
Join holiday activities at TELUS World of Science
– Media from twosedm
Website: https://telusworldofscienceedmonton.ca/
Address: 11211 142 St NW
Phone: +1 780 451 3344
Admission Fee:
- Adult (18+) – $35.95
- Child (3–12) – $26.95
- Youth (13–17), student with I.D. – $30.95
- Senior (65+) – $30.95
- Family (2 adults + 2 children) – $116.95
Operating Hours: Open daily – 9 AM to 5 PM
TELUS World of Science offers permanent exhibit galleries and rotating featured exhibits, providing engaging experiences for all ages. Visitors can explore scientific concepts through interactive displays on space, robotics, and Arctic adventures.
In winter, they feature activities like eco-friendly gift wrapping, gingerbread-flavoured liquid nitrogen ice cream, and winter wildlife exploration. There are also winter-themed storytime sessions and opportunities to design a sustainable Winter Wonderland.
| Pro Tip: To make the most of your visit to the center, watch The Polar Express in IMAX 3D on Alberta’s largest screen. The Polar Express Family Combo is available for $25 + GST, including 2 large popcorns, 2 candies or chocolates, and 4 fountain drinks. |