Where Edmonton Magazine November/December 2016 | Page 24

A Historical Holiday

Learn about early Christmas traditions at Fort Edmonton
Park’s annual Christmas Reflections (December 16 – 23 &
28 – 30). Hear stories of Christmases past from Edmonton
settlers, and enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides around the
park (pg 33). You can also hop on a sleigh and tour the
historic Old Strathcona neighbourhood when you need a
break from shopping its unique boutiques on
Saturdays in December. (pg 33)

TREAT
THE
KIDS
TO:
1. Santa’s
Parade of Lights
NOVEMBER 19

Bundle everyone up in their
favourite pair of mittens and a
toque, and find the ideal spot to watch
the glowing floats and Santa himself pass by! Head to
Churchill Square afterward to write a letter to Santa and
warm up by the bonfire. edmontonsantasparade.com

2. Zoominescence

DECEMBER 9 – 18

Admire the dazzling light installations created by local
artists, participate in festive crafts, and visit
the animals at the Edmonton Valley
Zoo! valleyzoo.ca

WITNESS THE CITY’S
NEIGHBOURHOODS
LIGHT UP AT:

DBA Holiday Light Up
NOVEMBER 12

A 72-foot-tall tree adorned with 14,000
LED lights will alight amid cascading
snowflakes and stars, while everyone
enjoys festive activities with balloon
artists, stilt walkers, and carolers in
Churchill Square. edmontondowntown.com

All Is Bright

NOVEMBER 19

Ward off the dark winter season a little longer with this celebration
of all that is bright, including fantastic light displays on 124 Street
businesses, live musical acts, and more family fun at this free festival.
124street.ca/all-is-bright

3. A Prairie Christmas
The cozy, rustic Prairie
Gardens and Adventure
Farm welcomes young
and old to join in their
many holiday activities,
including a ride on the magical
Polar Express, a family photo
with Santa, a snowball fort, and
treats in Mrs. Claus’ kitchen.
prairiegardens.org

4. Winterfest
DECEMBER 2 – 4

At this kick-off to Snow
Valley’s skiing season, enjoy
fun activities such as a
marshmallow roast, free hot
chocolate, and a scavenger
hunt! snowvalley.ca
24

where.ca

// NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016

Quick Sellout

Thousands of candles light the pathways in the snow-covered
Kurimoto Japanese Garden at Luminaria (December 2 – 4). As you
wander the stunning space, you’ll be entertained by the delightful
snow sprites and the strolling a cappella singers. The event makes
for a magical night and often sells out weeks ahead of time, so don’t
delay in grabbing your tickets! devonian.ualberta.ca w

PHOTOS BY ROB HISLOP; COURTESY
DOWNTOWN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION;
DEVONIAN BOTANIC GARDEN; SANTA'S
PARADE OF LIGHTS; SNOW VALLEY SKI CLUB

DECEMBER 10 – 11