Christmas & Holiday Activities in and around Red Deer – Lights, Santa, Concerts & Theatre

A list of Christmas events in and around Red Deer including Santa Claus Parade, Christmas lights, carols, theatre, and other holiday events.

Contents

1. Christmas Lights & Santa Claus Parades
2. Christmas Carols & Holiday Concerts
3. Christmas Theatre
4. Other Holiday Events

I. Christmas Lights & Santa Claus Parades in and around Red Deer

Red Deer Lights the Night

 Celebrate the holidays and take in a beautiful display of twinkling lights at Red Deer Lights the Night. Enjoy a winter market and warming tent, games and crafts for the kids and of course, a visit from Santa! Cozy up with a cup of hot chocolate and some popcorn as we light up City Hall Park and the Christmas Holiday Tree. Details

Saturday, November 16, 2019 | 04:00 PM – 07:00 PM

City Hall Park, Ross Street & Red Deer Public Library
Parking is FREE in Sorenson Station Parkade from 3 – 8 p.m. and in on street parking stalls through the weekend.

Free

Light up the Night Blackfalds

Join us as we light up the park and kick off the Christmas season in style and transform Tayles Park into a winter wonderland!

Hot chocolate provided by Tim Hortons.

Details

November 23, 2019 | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Tayles Water Park, Blackfalds

Free
Hot chocolate by donation.
Don’t forget your food bank items.

Sylvan Lake Santa Claus Parade & Fireworks

Lightup the Lake Christmas Celebrations. Details

Parade – Saturday, November 30, 2019  | 05:00 PM
Christmas Fireworks : 06:15 PM

Parade Route: Join us along 47 Avenue, 50 Street and Lakeshore Drive for the annual Santa Clause Parade.
Christmas Fireworks:  Downtown with fireworks setup on the Pier.

Free

Winter Night Lights Tour

Enjoy a horse drawn sleigh drive through 20,000+ display of winter lights. Hot chocolate and blankets are provided. Details

November 15 – December 28, 2019

Heritage Ranch
6300 Cronquist Dr, Red Deer

Adult: $37.50;Child (4-14): $15.00
Infant: $3.00

Light up the Night Lacombe

This four-day event captures all of the tradition, heritage and charm of a good old fashioned Christmas Festival. Each year the festival is growing in size and scope, with fantastic activities including the Annual, Tim Horton’s Santa Claus Parade and a Tree Lighting Ceremony to kick off the holiday season. . Details

November 21 to 24, 2019
Tim Horton’s Santa Claus Parade: Thursday | 6:00 PM
Tree Lighting Ceremony: Thursday | 6:45 PM
Fireworks: Friday, December 21 | 8:00 PM @ Cranna Lake

Various venues, Downtown Lacombe
Lacombe Memorial Centre/Cranna Lake

free & Ticketed events

Alix Parade of Lights

Join in for the annual parade! Details

Saturday, December 7, 2019 | 06:30 PM

Parade Route: Starts at Alix Fire Hall, down to Lake Street, down Main Street, past Alix Manor, through Subdivision, and back to Alix Fire Hall

Canadian Pacific Holiday Train

The Canadian Pacific (CP) Holiday Train program is returning to the rails for a 18th year to raise money, food, and awareness for food banks and hunger issues across Canada and the United States. Holiday Train is about 1,000 feet in length with 14 rail cars decorated with hundreds of thousands of technology-leading LED lights and a modified boxcar that has been turned into a traveling stage for performers (Dallas Smith and Odds).Details

Blackfalds

Venue: CP Tracks at Gregg Street between Broadway Ave and East Ave
Date & Time: Sunday, December 9, 2018  | Arrival: 12:45 PM; Show: 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM

Wetaskawin

Venue: CP ES Building, 4009 50 Street
Date & Time: Friday, December 6, 2019  | Arrival: 3:25 PM; Show: 3:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Ponoka

Venue: 50th Street and 47 Avenue
Date & Time: Friday, December 6, 2019 | Arrival: 5:00 PM; Show: 5:15 PM – 5:45 PM

Lacombe

Venue: The Len Thompson Fish Pond
Date & Time: Friday, December 6, 2019  | Arrival: 6:50 PM; Show: 7:00 PM – 7:30 PM

Blackfalds

Venue: CP tracks at Greg Street between Broadway Avenue and East Avenue
Date & Time: Friday, December 6, 2019  | Arrival: 8:05 PM; Show: 8:15 PM – 8:45 PM

Innisfail

Venue: 52 Avenue and 50 Street crossing
Date & Time: Saturday, December 7, 2019 | Arrival: 1:15 PM; Show: 1:25 PM – 1:55 PM

Free, donations for local food bank appreciated.

II. Christmas Carols & Holiday Concerts in Red Deer

FOUR BY FOUR HOLIDAY SHOW

From the creative team that brought you the hit show “Oh What a Night!” (a musical tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons) comes an exciting new “holiday” version of their hit show “Four by Four”. Four by Four’s Holiday Show features four top Las Vegas based performers who celebrate in person the music of The Beach Boys, The Beatles, The Bee Gees, and Motown. Their performance will feature over fifty legendary songs from these great icons of pop music culture all in one Las Vegas style show. Details

Thursday November 28 2019 at 7:00 PM

 Memorial Centre
4214 – 58 Street, Red Deer

$68.81

John McDermott Family Christmas

Join beloved Canadian tenor John McDermott as he delivers holiday cheer. As is John’s tradition, he will sing holiday favourites, songs from his illustrious musical career, and tasteful Remembrance tributes. John McDermott is an international recording star and household name known as much for his successful musical career as for his commitment to veterans’ causes. Details

Saturday, November 30, 2019 at 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM

 Memorial Centre
4214 – 58 Street, Red Deer

 $47 + GST.

Stringing the Holidays Together

A concert for strings only, featuring the Rosedale Valley Strings Youth Orchestra playing alongside the RDSO’s string sections. This concert will feature a variety of Christmas favourites and a surprise or two. Details

Saturday, December 7, 2019 at 8 PM – 10 PM

Mainstage –
100 College Blvd., Red Deer

$4- to $60

Nine Lessons & Carols

A Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols is the Christmas Eve service held every year at the King’s College Chapel in Cambridge, U.K. It was introduced in 1918 to bring a more imaginative approach to worship. First broadcast in 1928, it is now broadcast each year to millions of people around the world. A unique blend of story and song, the program resonates with what the Christmas season is all about. Featuring all local talent, everyone in attendance is invited to sing along during traditional hymns and carols which are interspersed by powerful verse, delivered by engaging orators. 
Details

December 9, 2019 | 7:00 PM PM to 8:20 PM

Gaetz Memorial United Church
4758 50 Street, Red Deer

admission is by donation thanks to Servus Credit Union.

III. Christmas Plays & Holiday Theatre in Red Deer

1. Frozen

  Cornerstone Youth Theatre proudly presents “Frozen”.

The enchanting modern classic from Disney is ready for your Broadway Junior stars! A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, Frozen JR. expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. When faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. With a cast of beloved characters and loaded with magic, adventure, and plenty of humor, Frozen JR. is sure to thaw even the coldest heart!

Details

Friday November 15 to Sunday Nov 24, 2019

New Life Fellowship, 20 Kelloway Crescent, Red Deer

$10 to $15

Whole-In-One

Whole-In-One is a family comedy about marriage, golf and lightning. Michael has an obsession – to get a hole-in-one – and a secret as to why he wants to achieve one. Sharon, his wife, wants him to stop playing golf and focus more on her and their marriage. She presents him with a challenge: get a hole-in-one within a certain number of shots or give up golf forever.  Details

November 29 to December 21, 2019

Mainstage Black Knight Inn
2929 – 50 Avenue, Red Deer

Friday or Saturdays: $71.35
Thursday/Sunday: $70.25

Little Women

Under the guidance of their beloved mother, the four young March sisters- tempestuous Jo, motherly Meg, shy Beth, and spoiled baby Amy- struggle to keep their family going while Father’s away in the Civil War. In this beautifully dramatized adaptation of the classic novel, even as privation, illness, and sibling rivalry cast their shadows, each girl strives to find her true self.  Details

Thursday December 12 2019 to Saturday December 21 2019

Nickle Studio – Memorial Centre
4214 – 58 Street, Red Deer

$16

Narnia

Joy’s School of Dance Presents Narnia. Come experience the magic and wonder of a new Winter tradition! With a variety of dance styles and story-telling this classic CS Lewis Tale ~ The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, has something magical for everyone. Details

 Saturday, November 30, 2019 | 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM

100 College Blvd Red Deer

$15 to $18

The Nutcracker Ballet

Waltzing flowers, a Sugar Plum Fairy, Sweets from around the world and a magical Nutcracker. Nothing brings the magic of the holiday season to life better than the world’s favorite ballet. This show for the entire family will bring comfort & joy to everyone with dancing snowflakes, mice and more! In full ballet costumes, dancers from across Central Alberta remind us all that the magic of Christmas can help make our dreams and wishes come true!
Details

Friday, December 13, 2019 | 12:00 PM & 7:00 PM
Saturday, December 14, 2019 | 1:00 PM & 7:00 PM
Sunday, December 15, 2019 | 1:00 PM

100 College Blvd Red Deer

$5 to $20

An Improvised Christmas Carol & Dinner

A(n Improvised) Christmas Carol brings Charles Dickens christmas classic to the stage with a twist! You decide the story! What if Scrooge was a teacher? What if the ghost of Christmas past was a film noir detective? What afflicts poor Tiny Tim? YOU DECIDE! Dinner Catered by Chickadee Catering
Details

Friday, December 13, 2019 | 12:00 PM & 7:00 PM
Doors open at 6:30 PM, Dinner at 7:00 PM, Show at 8:00 PM

The Scott Block Theatre 4816 50 Avenue Red Deer

$60

 

IV. Other Christmas / Holiday Events in Red Deer

Norwegian Laft Hus Society and Museum Annual Bake Sale

 Come to the Laft Hus to stock up on Norwegian baking like lefse, rosettes, and fattigman. There will also be a wonderful selection of handmade Norwegian folk art such as Rosemaling and Hardanger which make perfect Christmas gifts! Remember to check out our large selection of items in the Butikk. From mugs to t-shirts, or baking supplies, you can to find the perfect item for the Norwegian aficionado in your life. Details

Saturday, November 16, 2019 | 9:00 AM – 04:00 PM
Sunday, November 17, 2019 | 12:00 PM – 04:00 PM

4402-47 Avenue
Red Deer

FREE

Ponoka Festival of Trees

2019  marks the 6th year of the Ponoka Festival of trees. Again this years proceeds go to the Ponoka & District Health Foundation. Details

November 14 to 16, 2019
Seniors Candy Cane Coffee: Friday, November 15, 2019 at 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Snow Much Fun Family Day: Saturday, November 16, 2019 at 11 AM – 3 PM

Ponoka Stampede grounds 5616 39 Ave Ponoka

$5 to $20

Holiday Craft Fair

 A wonderful way to start off the Holiday Season. Shop and browse here at the Kerry Wood Nature Centre for that little something special! Come and enjoy the warm atmosphere while you take advantage of the many goods sold by our vendors. Details

November 16 & 17 | 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

 Kerry Wood Nature Centre, 6300 45 Avenue

Free

Rare and Remarkable! Artisan Market

Join us for a unique holiday shopping experience this November by exploring the arts and crafts of some of our area’s premier artists and craftspeople who have set up their displays throughout the MAG’s Remarkable Red Deer exhibit and other gallery spaces. Over 15 artists will be in attendance with artwork ranging from pottery, silver jewelry, glass, textiles, oil, acrylic and watercolour painting, Raku, fine functional woodwork, mixed media and more. The Artisan Market is held in conjunction with similar seasonal arts and crafts events hosted by The City of Red Deer Recreation Centre, the Norwegian Laft Hus and the Golden Circle. Details

November 16 | 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Red Deer Museum & Art Gallery, 4501 47A Ave, Red Deer

Free/Donation

Red Deer Pottery Club Fall Sale

 There will be many artists displaying their unique, beautiful pieces, including bowls, mugs, ornaments for home and garden, wall hangings, sculptures, and coasters. A great place to shop for Christmas gifts.  Details

November 16 | 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Red Deer Recreation Centre, 4501 47A Ave , Red Deer

Free/Donation

The Christmas Party!

Join us for our 3rd annual “The Christmas Party”! Kick off the holiday season with an evening of festive catered food, drinks, and tunes!  Mini concerts of holiday music provided by us, and a jazzy array of dinner music provided by the talented pianist, Don Johnson. Details

November 28 and 29, 2019
Doors at 6:30, Dinner at 7:00 PM

The Westerner Chalet, Red Deer

$75 per person

Spirit of Sylvan Yuletide Festival

Welcome the season with Market, kids zone, entertainment, Christmas fireworks carols & more!  Details

November 29 & 30, 2019

Downtown Sylvan Lake, 50 A Ave, between 50 Street & 50 A Street

Free and ticketed.

Christmas Wish Breakfast

Bring a new unwrapped toy to the Black Knight Inn and in return receive a hot breakfast. Your new toy will go to the Red Deer Christmas and Salvation Army who assist families during the Christmas season. We’ll have entertainment, a visit from Santa, and some other surprises. No stuffed animals please!  Details

Sunday, November 17, 2019 | 8 AM – 11 AM

Black Knight Inn
2929 50 Avenue, Red Deer

new unwrapped toy donation

Festival of Trees

 Start your Christmas season off right! Whether you’re looking for activities for the entire family or something fun to do with that someone special, the Red Deer Festival of Trees is Red Deer’s premier Christmas community fundraiser, kicking off the Christmas season! Every year the Westerner transforms into a Christmas wonderland for all to enjoy! Details

Friday November 22, 2019 | 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Saturday November 23, 2019 | 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday November 24, 2019 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA: Sunday, November 24

Westerner Park, 4847A 19th Street
Red Deer

Adult:  $10.00, Senior (60+):  $6.00
Sat, Nov 23 Seniors get in free, Youth (12-17):  $6.00, Children (4-11):  $4.00, Children (3 and under):  Free, Westerner Parking Fee:  $7.00; Special activities: Varies

North Pole Stroll

A pickle used as a Christmas decoration may seem odd at first, but it’s an old tradition. When decorating the tree, the pickle is hung last, hidden among the branches. The first person on Christmas morning to find the Christmas Pickle receives a special blessing for the year and an extra gift! During the Christmas season, many Downtown Red Deer businesses hide pickles in their stores. Customers lucky enough to spot them are eligible to win a prize from that business, such as a discount or raffle entries.

Many Downtown businesses remain open until 8 p.m. or later to help Red Deerians with their Christmas shopping and to encourage the support of local businesses. Most participants have special offers and many serve up hot drinks or holiday treats, so it’s a great time to enjoy some Christmas cheer.

Details

November 16 to December 22, 2019

Downtown Red Deer

Free

Christmas Artisan Market

The Westerner Park Christmas Artisan Market is about giving back to the community with food and charity donations, while shopping for your Christmas list with unique local vendors that range from creative art, food and electronic devices. Experience the VIP night on Friday with free swag, drink and food samples while picking out the perfect gift. Saturday bring your skates and helmet to enjoy public skating with a $2 donation for the Red Deer Food Bank. Details

Saturday, November 30 | 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM

ENMAX Centrium, Westerner Park, Red Deer

Free

Breakfast and Lunch with Santa

Bring the kids for a fun filled event including pictures with Santa, various activities and a tasty meal.  Details

Saturday, November 30, 2019
Breakfast starts at 9:00 AM
Lunch starts at 12:00 PM.

Abbey Centre, 4500 Womacks Rd, Blackfalds

$10

International Christmas Tea

Join the Red Deer Cultural Heritage Society for the annual International Christmas Tea event held at the three-storey 104 year old farmhouse overlooking Bower Ponds, the Cronquist House. The event features an array of internationally diverse foods, desserts and drinks. Reserve your spot (403) 346 – 0055 Details

Tuesday, December 3, 2019 | 12:30 PM & 2:30 PM

Cronquist House, 4707 Fountain Drive.
Red Deer

$15.00 per person

Victorian Christmas Dinner

  The Red Deer Cultural Heritage Society will be hosting the Victorian Christmas Dinner once again this year at the 104 year-old Cronquist House. Dinner will consist of a traditional Victorian-style meal.   Reserve your spot (403) 346 – 0055Details

December 6th, December 13th, 2019 | 06:30 PM to 10:00 PM

Cronquist House,
4707 Fountain Drive, Red Deer

$ 50.00 per person, Six Course meal with complimentary drink.

Blackfalds Christmas Market

 100+ Unique Vendors, At Least $2,000 in Door Prizes, DIY Classes & Entertainment!! Details

Saturday, December 7, 2019 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday, December 8, 2019 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Abbey Centre, 4500 Womacks Rd, Blackfalds

Free

Stocking Stuffer Pop-Up Market

Fill up those stockings with handmade items and products for $25.00 and under. Details

Saturday, December 14, 2019 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

NexSource Centre, Sylvan Lake