The early snowfall is giving us all the holiday feels, and we’ve officially got Christmas on our brains! In no particular order, here are our favourite spots to get in the Christmas spirit and check out some amazing holiday displays! Enjoy!
1) Leduc Country Lights, November 30 – January 1st:
When we heard that the family behind the Leduc Country Lights would be pulling the plug on their spectacular Christmas display, we were utterly disappointed. Luckily for all of us, the display is back up and running, and we couldn’t be more excited. The family bypassed multiple offers from buyers to purchase their holiday display, instead choosing to donate all of the items to the Kinsmen Club of Leduc, and Leduc West Antique Society. Boasting 80 acres of land, the Leduc West Antique Society has graciously offered to be the new home of the Leduc Country Lights display. New this year, is an admission rate of $2.00 per person. Don’t forget to bring your non-perishable food donation when you stop by!
2) Christmas Glow Edmonton, November 28 – January 4th:
Glow received rave reviews last year for its jaw-dropping holiday showcase. We were a little bit reluctant to go thinking that the crowds would be too much to enjoy, but boy, were we wrong! When purchasing your tickets online, you’ll be prompted to choose a time frame for your arrival. These arrival windows are spaced apart in one-hour intervals to ensure that all guests have the best possible experience by reducing crowds at potential peak times. The theme this year is “Glow Around the World” where you’ll follow Santa on his journey to deliver presents in six different countries. Hanging interactive lights, LED swings, and nearly one million twinkling lights will surround you as you try taking it all in. Let your kids enjoy the magic castle playground, hop on Glen the Glow-Comotive, or share all their Christmas wishes during their visit with Santa. Making it a date night? Enjoy amazing Glow cocktails and delicious food while perusing the market area. There truly is something for everyone here at Christmas Glow Edmonton.
3) Candy Cane Lane, December 7th – January 1st:
This place holds a special place in Chantel’s heart. Growing up, she remembers walking through Candy Cane Lane with her family at Christmas time every single year. Approaching its 50th anniversary, Candy Cane Lane brings a sense of togetherness for both visitors and residents alike, and the bonus – it’s absolutely FREE to attend! This yearly tradition began in the 1960’s all because a few neighbors had a love for Christmas, and it quickly grew to becoming a staple in the community. Today, Candy Cane Lane is the Edmonton Food Bank’s second largest contributor with an average of 25,000 kilograms of food being donated each year. If you’re not interested in navigating the route by foot or even by car, you can book a sleigh ride to tour you down the “Lane”. Give yourself plenty of time and make sure to be prepared for long line-ups of vehicles, so make sure to pack snacks for the kids, and stop for bathroom breaks beforehand.
4) Zoominescence – A Festival of Light, every Friday to Sunday in December:
Each December, the Valley Zoo Development Society, stages a spectacular exhibition of lights all within the Edmonton Valley Zoo. The festival’s got a skating rink, maze, fire dancers, ice, and light exhibits. Take a stroll while you sip on hot chocolate and visit your favourite animals all while enjoying the beautiful winter light display. Keep in mind that this is an annual fundraiser, therefore annual zoo passes can’t be used to gain admission. Tickets are priced between $6.00 and $8.50.
5) ETS Christmas Light Tours, December 14th – 16th:
Listen, we get it. It’s cold. It’s winter. If you’re allergic to winter like many people out there, or walking outdoors is just too tricky, the ETS Christmas Light Tour is a great option for you. The tour will start at the Alberta Legislative Assembly where tour goers can bask in the beautiful holiday display at the Legislative Grounds all while listening to the choirs performing. The next stop is Candy Cane Lane. There’s no need to worry about navigating slippery sidewalks or bundling up to brave the cold winter temperatures with the ETS Christmas Light Tour. Take note that each bus can accommodate two wheelchair or scooter positions. Tickets are $5.00 each and go on sale December 3rd through Tix on the Square. These tours sell out quickly every year, so be sure to grab tickets early!
If you know of any “must-see” Christmas displays in Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, or Parkland County, please let us know! We’d love to add them to our list.