Are we all ready for some Christmas twinkle? Here’s where you can catch some of Albertas iconic lights and celebrations around the province this holiday season.
Around Alberta
CP Christmas Train
A Christmas tradition! The CP Christmas Train will be making 21 stops around Alberta.
When: December 7-13. Hours vary per destination. Please see the link below for times in your area.
Cost: Free, BUT, please bring a cash donation or a healthy non-perishable food donation for the food bank.
For locations and schedules: http://albertamamas.ca/cp-holiday-train-alberta-2018/
Airdrie
Airdrie Festival of Lights
The Airdrie Festival of Lights is western Canada’s largest, free, outdoor walk-through Christmas Light Display.
Where: Nose Creek Regional Park
Cost: Free
Dates: December 1-31 from 6-9pm
For more information: https://airdrielights.com/
Banff
Christmas in Banff
The town of Banff has SO much going on for Christmas this year. On November 16th join them for a full day of fun activities for the family! From photo’s with Santa, to parades and gallery hops and mountain top Christmas there’s lots to do. Celebrations coincide with the CP Christmas Train.
Where: Various location around Banff.
Date: November 16th.
Cost: Varies from free (CP Mini Train Rides and parade) to the cost of admission (Banff Gondola, Banff Christmas Market).
Calgary
Noel Indoor Christmas Lights Festival 2019
Calgary’s Only Indoor Light Park & Christmas Market! From an impressive, Interactive Light Park and Christmas Kid’s Adventure, to artisan gifts, craft beer and Christmas spirit in the Noël Christmas Market, there’s something special for everyone.
Where:
Dates: November 28- January 4
Cost: Varies depending on weekend and weekday visits. See the link below for details on pricing and parking.
For more information: http://albertamamas.ca/youve-got-check-out-the-calgary-noel-indoor-christmas-lights-festival
ZooLights
Zoolights is back for the 23rd year for six weeks of family-friendly fun. The lights are turned on at 5:00 p.m. nightly, with the official event running from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. It takes 90 minutes to 2 hours to experience all ZOOLIGHTS has to offer!
For those with sensory-sensitive children, every Sunday between 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. the Zoolights experience will be altered to meet the needs of our sensory-sensitive guests. This includes a calm room in the Tom Baines Classroom from 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. that will feature calming activities and space run by staff and volunteers.
Where: Calgary Zoo
Dates: November 22- January 4 from 6-9pm
Cost: Save $3 per ticket when you purchase online.
- $19.95 for adults
- $14.95 for children
For more information: https://www.calgaryzoo.com/zoolights
Edmonton
Glow Edmonton
Glow Edmonton is back for its second year at a new location, the Edmonton Expo Centre. Enjoy interactive light gardens, illuminated structures along with local vendors and festive food.
Where: Edmonton Expo Centre
Dates: November 28- January 4
Cost: Ticket prices vary depending on the date you go. Weekend and holiday prices for adults is $22.99, children under 12 and senior price is $16.99 and children under 3 are free. Cost for weekday visits has a $2-3 savings. If you plan on attending more than once, consider purchasing a season pass. Prices available online
For more information: https://www.glowgardens.com/edmonton-christmas/
Magic of Lights
The Canadian Tire Magic of Lights is 2 kilometers of festive and vibrant LED lighted displays celebrating the joy of the holidays. A “drive-through” experience from the comfort of your own car. At every turn, and in every direction, the magical route is overflowing with spectacular light displays and animations. Multiple holiday themes come to life with hundreds of thousands of sparkling lights!
Where: Castrol Raceway
Dates: November 22-January 4 from 5-10 nightly
Cost: $25 per vehicle or $45 for a “Dash Pass” which lets you skip the line.
For more information: https://magicoflights.com/events/edmonton/
Fort McMurray
Santa Claus Parade
The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo is showing off their festive side during the Santa Claus Parade.
Where: Downtown Fort McMurray starting on Riedel Street and traveling north on Franklin Avenue ending on Main Street.
When: December 7 at 6pm
Cost: Freee
For more information: http://www.rmwb.ca/living/Events-and-Festivals/Santa-Claus-Parade.htm
Lethbridge
Nikka Yuko Winter Lights Festival
The Winter Lights Festival returns to Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden with 115,000 lights.
Please note that the festival runs on select nights and may be canceled due to cold, wind, or snow. To find out if the garden will be closed please check the website or Facebook.
Where: Nikka Yuko Gardens, Lethbridge
When: November 29 – January 31 from 6-9pm
Cost: Adults: $9
Children (ages 6-15): $7 (includes hot drink & cookie)
Children (5 and under): FREE
I’m sure we’ve missed a tonne! Please leave your favourite Christmas event in the comments below! 🎄