December Events & Activities in Edmonton [2025]

Explore the vibrant array of December events and activities in Edmonton this year, offering a range of festive experiences for all. From the twinkling lights of Christmas Glow to the elegant performances by the Alberta Ballet, the city is alive with holiday spirit. Stay tuned to discover these things to do Edmonton that will surely make your December even more magical.

Glow Edmonton

At Glow Edmonton, guests are greeted with a captivating holiday atmosphere filled with dazzling light displays and fun carnival activities suitable for all ages. Indulge in delicious festive treats while creating lasting memories with your family and friends.

Throughout the festival, a variety of special events cater to audiences, offering engaging activities, festive performances, and shows. From a light maze to a train decked out in lights, the lights will be bright at this popular event. Plus, visitors can enjoy crafts, foods, and spirits from local vendors.

This year's theme is the Enchanted Forest. It'll feature mushroom houses and talking trees, along with other interactive displays.

Zoominescence

Want more lights? The Edmonton Valley Zoo has you covered.

Zoominescence: A Festival of Light returns for its 13th year, transforming the zoo into a spectacular winter wonderland. The zoo is home to artistic light installations designed for all ages.

Visitors can experience the unique opportunity to explore the zoo at night, wandering through illuminated pathways while admiring creative displays from local artisans. This family-friendly event offers a special way to enjoy the zoo during the colder months.

Alberta Ballet's The Nutcracker

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Alberta Ballet's The Nutcracker as the holiday season unfolds in Edmonton. Celebrate the holidays with this enchanting tradition that follows Clara and her Nutcracker in their battle against the Rat King.

This year's performance is extra exciting because it's a new production brought by Artistic Director Francesco Ventriglia. There will be different sets and costumes along with new choreography.

Salute to Vienna New Year's Concert

As the New Year approaches, the Winspear Centre in Edmonton is set to come alive with the vibrant sounds of the Salute to Vienna New Year's Concert. Featuring the Strauss Symphony, this joyful event is celebrating its 30th anniversary.

Under the baton of Michael Zehetner, the concert has a program bursting with music, costumes, and flowers. Attendees can expect soaring arias, romantic duets, and festive overtures in this celebration of music and tradition.

Other Holiday Plays & Performances

The Nutcracker and Salute to Vienna aren't the only times you can catch performing arts this December. Other performances include:

• A Christmas Carol at The Citadel Theatre from Nov. 22 through Dec. 24.
• Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland at River Cree Resort & Casino on Dec. 2.
• Johnny Reid at the Winspear Theatre on Dec. 14–16.

And there are still many more performances to explore, so make sure you check out your local theatre.

Holiday Markets

Holiday Markets in Edmonton offer a unique shopping experience for locals and visitors alike, offering local flair that the best malls in the city can't match.

Edmonton Christmas Market

The Edmonton Christmas Market, a festive winter wonderland open from Nov. 29 through Dec. 21, offers a perfect outing for families and friends looking to immerse themselves in seasonal delights. Visitors can enjoy seasonal eats, treats, unique gifts, and entertainment while celebrating and creating lasting memories.

With more than 100 vendors, guests can explore and discover the perfect gift for everyone on their list in this curated market featuring unique items. The market also provides a cheerful holiday spirit with its vendors, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

In addition to shopping, guests can experience the enchantment and magic of the holiday season through various live performances and holiday activities. The market is adorned with dazzling lights and a festive ambiance, making it a fun experience for the whole family.

OddBird Art & Craft Fair

From Dec. 5–7 (and Nov. 28–30), the OddBird Art & Craft Fair will take place at the Old Strathcona Performing Arts Centre. This winter lineup will showcase the works of dozens of artists, featuring colourful ceramics, indie literature, beadwork, textiles, and art prints. Attendees can also enjoy fresh coffee and snacks available on-site.

Admission is $5 at the door, with kids under 12 entering for free. This event promises a diverse range of unique and handmade items, making it an ideal opportunity to find special gifts for loved ones or oneself.

Butterdome Craft Sale

Alberta's largest craft sale, the Butterdome Craft Sale, will run from Dec. 4–7 at the University of Alberta's Butterdome. It features more than 220 Canadian artists from across the country. Every kind of art is featured, from textiles and ceramics to clothing and glass.

The show provides a wonderful opportunity to meet passionate creatives in person, hear their stories, and see their handmade works firsthand. Guests can also enjoy live music and food and drinks while they browse.

Early bird tickets can be purchased before Nov. 28 for $6 for seniors and $7.50 for general admission. Then prices go up—though only a little, to $8 and $10, respectively.

New Year's Eve Events

With the countdown to the New Year just around the corner, Edmonton is buzzing with exciting events to ring in 2026. From dazzling fireworks displays to lively parties, there's something for everyone to enjoy as they bid farewell to 2025 and welcome the new year in style.

Popular upcoming events include:

• New Year's Eve Beach Ball at World Waterpark
• New Year’s Eve Downtown Festival and Fireworks at Sir Winston Churchill Square

For those looking for a more upscale experience, many hotels and restaurants in the city are hosting special New Year's Eve galas and dinners. These events often include gourmet meals, live entertainment, and champagne toasts, providing a luxurious way to celebrate the arrival of the new year.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, Edmonton offers a variety of New Year's Eve events to make the transition into the new year unforgettable.

Enjoy Edmonton This December

Experience the holiday magic in Edmonton this December with a variety of events and activities to enjoy. From the twinkling lights of Glow Edmonton to the captivating performance of The Nutcracker by the Alberta Ballet, there is something for everyone to celebrate.

Don't miss out on the festive holiday markets and unique experiences offered throughout the month. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit and create lasting memories this December—and get ready for all the fun upcoming winter events in Edmonton too.

(And don't forget your hockey fix; in addition to Oilers games at Rogers Place, the PWHL Takeover Tour™ stops by on Dec. 27, and the Canadian women's team plays the United States Dec. 10 and 13.)