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Planning a trip to Edmonton this winter? Whether you're relocating to the area, visiting for business, or enjoying a family getaway, you'll discover that Edmonton's winter season is anything but dull. Despite the cold temperatures, the city comes alive with cultural celebrations, festive entertainment, and memorable experiences. From artistic performances to culinary adventures, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Our Edmonton movers have compiled this comprehensive guide to the season's must-see events and festivals. Whether you're a longtime resident or first-time visitor, these winter activities will help you embrace the season and create lasting memories in Alberta's capital city.
November 15 | 124 St & between 107 Ave & 109 Ave | 4 pm – 8 pm
Start your holiday season at this community celebration featuring performances by local musicians, seasonal activities for all ages, and plenty of festive treats. This neighborhood gathering brings people together to welcome winter with warmth and entertainment.
NOVEMBER 20, 2025 - JANUARY 3, 2026
WEEKDAYS (Sunday to Thursday): 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
WEEKENDS (Friday & Saturday): 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Experience an impressive illuminated journey spanning nearly three kilometers, where more than two million LED lights create a dazzling winter wonderland. This drive-through attraction lets you enjoy elaborate light sculptures and animated holiday scenes from the warmth of your vehicle, making it perfect for families with young children or anyone wanting to stay cozy while soaking in the festive atmosphere.
Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.
Join the community for the sixth annual celebration featuring imaginative floats, creative performances, and holiday entertainment. The parade delivers seasonal cheer through illuminated displays, cheerful music, and festive presentations that delight spectators of all ages.
November 22 – December 24, 2025
The Citadel Theatre presents David van Belle's theatrical interpretation of Charles Dickens' timeless tale. Follow Ebenezer Scrooge through his supernatural encounters across three temporal visits, exploring themes of redemption and holiday spirit in this beloved seasonal production.
Dates and Times:
November 28-30, 2025
December 5-7, 12-23 & 26-31, 2025
January 1-4, 2026
The Edmonton Valley Zoo undergoes a spectacular evening transformation with illuminated wildlife sculptures and locally created artistic installations. This after-dark experience combines nature, art, and light in the zoo's scenic valley location, offering a distinctive way to celebrate the season.
November 28 – December 13, 2025
Capitol Theatre - 1920 Street, Fort Edmonton Park, Edmonton, Alberta
18+ show
This adults-only entertainment features Jacqueline Frost and her Frosty Follies in a cheeky holiday variety performance. The show blends musical numbers, comedy, and theatrical flair with seasonal themes for an evening of mature entertainment and holiday fun.
Saturday, November 29, 2025 from 4-8pm at McIntyre Park + 83rd Ave
Old Strathcona's annual holiday kickoff transforms McIntyre Park with complimentary family activities, live musical performances, and street entertainment. The Old Strathcona Business Association hosts this festive block party celebrating the arrival of the holiday season.
November 29 – December 14, 2025
Capitol Theatre - 1920 Street, Fort Edmonton Park, Edmonton, Alberta
This child-friendly adaptation reimagines the classic Scrooge story with interactive elements and age-appropriate humor. Young audiences participate in the performance while learning about generosity, kindness, and the joy of the holiday season.
November 29 – December 21, 2025
Fort Edmonton Park - 7000 143 Street NW, Edmonton, Alberta
Fort Edmonton Park hosts this multi-week celebration featuring stunning illumination, hands-on art experiences, frozen sculptures, and vendors selling handmade local products. The market highlights Edmonton's creative community and provides an excellent opportunity to find unique gifts while supporting local artisans.
November 30, 2025
Robertson-Wesley United Church - 10209 123 St, Edmonton, Alberta
The Alberta Baroque Ensemble presents their annual holiday concert at this historic venue. This single-night performance features classical compositions by Baroque masters including Albinoni, Corelli, and Bach, creating an elegant evening of seasonal music.
December 4 – December 31, 2025
Edmonton EXPO Centre - 7515 118 Ave, Edmonton, Alberta
The EXPO Centre dedicates 100,000 square feet to The Enchanted Forest theme, featuring illuminated pathways, sparkling archways, and oversized light installations. This indoor experience offers countless photo opportunities in a climate-controlled setting throughout the entire month.
December 10 – December 10, 2025
Alchemy Bar - 10344 102 St, Edmonton, Alberta
Learn professional bartending techniques in this interactive workshop led by an experienced mixologist. Participants prepare four seasonal cocktails paired with gourmet appetizers from Chef Allen, while gaining knowledge about quality spirits and proper mixing methods.
December 12 – December 14, 2025
Westbury Theatre - Fringe Theatre Arts Barns, 10330 84 Ave, Edmonton, Alberta
This musical comedy performance combines traditional Christmas songs with personal anecdotes and humor suitable for family audiences. Chase Padgett shares stories about how the holidays have shaped his life through guitar performances and entertaining storytelling.
December 12, 2025 – January 2, 2026
Crestwood Community League - 148 St between 92 & 100 Ave, Edmonton, Alberta
For five decades, this residential neighborhood has created Edmonton's most beloved holiday light display. Multiple blocks feature elaborate yard decorations including full-size holiday characters, countless illuminated ornaments, and festive scenes that draw visitors from across the region each December.
December 14, 2025
Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium - 11455 87 Ave, Edmonton, Alberta
The FILMharmonique Orchestra performs Danny Elfman's complete film score live while Tim Burton's stop-motion classic plays on screen. Watch Jack Skellington's misguided attempt to reinvent Christmas while experiencing the music in a full orchestral arrangement.
December 19 – December 20, 2025
Varscona Theatre - 10329 83 Ave, Edmonton, Alberta
18+ show
Edmonton's top drag and burlesque artists present a holiday-themed variety show with mature content and festive flair. This adults-only performance combines theatrical numbers, comedy, and seasonal entertainment for those seeking alternative holiday programming.
December 20 – December 21, 2025
Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium - 11455 87 Ave, Edmonton, Alberta
Shumka's annual production features over 80 dancers combining traditional Ukrainian folk dance with classical ballet choreography. This culturally unique interpretation of the Nutcracker story has become a treasured Edmonton holiday tradition showcasing Ukrainian heritage and artistic excellence.
December 31, 2025 – January 1, 2026
Holiday Inn Edmonton South - Evario Events by IHG - 950 Parsons Rd SW, Edmonton, Alberta
Ring in 2026 at this Latin-themed New Year's celebration featuring dual dance floors, complimentary champagne at midnight, party accessories, and a photo booth. One room offers general dancing while the second focuses on Salsa and Bachata throughout the evening.
January 22 – January 25, 2026
Various Locations Around Downtown Edmonton, Alberta
This multi-day festival brings live music, artistic performances, and cultural programming to various downtown venues. Winterruption emphasizes community inclusion while celebrating winter culture through diverse entertainment that gets people out despite the cold temperatures.
February 6 – February 16, 2026
Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park - 13221 Buena Vista Road, Edmonton, Alberta
Edmonton's longest-running winter festival enters its 35th year in 2025, offering ten days of outdoor activities, cultural programming, recreational events, and athletic competitions. Silver Skate encourages residents to embrace winter through diverse experiences combining arts, sports, and community celebration.
February 13 – February 15, 2026
Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area, Alberta
This premier cross-country skiing event offers six different race categories accommodating everyone from novice skiers to competitive athletes. The festival promotes outdoor winter activity through classic-style Nordic skiing in a scenic provincial recreation area just outside Edmonton.
February 26 – March 1, 2026
Southwest of Louise McKinney Park - Edmonton, Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta
Watch elite athletes from around the world compete in the international ice climbing championship, marking the third time Canada has hosted this prestigious event. YEG Ice Fest runs concurrently, offering winter activities and entertainment in Edmonton's scenic river valley throughout the competition weekend.
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