Well, Alberta, it’s happening. Winter is here, and it’s time to put on those holiday hats (hopefully they’re warm). Snow has touched ground, lights are twinkling, and those sweet daylight hours are getting fewer by the second. Now that the summer hustle and bustle is behind us, it’s time to settle into all things cute and cozy and fill our time with amazing Alberta events that offer the opportunity to see new places, meet new people, and gather with our beloved communities. We’ve rounded up a big old list of things to do this November in Alberta, and we hope you’re ready for a month full of action. Let’s do this!
Bonnyville Craft Show
If you’re looking for some unique, handmade gifts to fill stockings with this holiday season, this is where you need to be. The Bonnyville Craft Show will be taking place for one day only on November 4th, from 10 am to 4 pm, at the Bonnyville Centennial Centre. Entry is free, though they’ll be accepting donations of non-perishable food items for the local food bank. If you want something beautiful and unique for your loved ones this year, a craft fair is the perfect place to shop. If you miss this one, the Cold Lake Craft Show will be taking place on November 25th at the Cold Lake Energy Centre.
Voices of Legends
There’s an amazing show coming through Alberta; you do not want to miss out. Voices of Legends is an awesome concert that showcases tributes to some of the most iconic singers and performers in the history of music. You’ll enjoy tributes to Elvis, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, and so much more. The show is touching down in Westlock on Saturday, November 4th, at the Westlock Inn & Conference Centre. Next up, Voices of Legends will come to Berwyn on November 25th. Keep your eyes on this travelling performance, and don’t miss your chance to see it for yourself.
Canadian Finals Rodeo Championship Performance
We would never write an Alberta event list without a rodeo for you! On Sunday, November 5th, at Westerner Park in Red Deer, the final rodeo performance of the season will be taking place, but that’s not all. The event will kick off at 9 a.m. with the “Ropin’ Into The Holidays Market,” CFR Cabaret Corral, and Mini Chuckwagon Races. There will be a ton of entertainment and things to do for spectators of all ages. When the clock strikes 12 p.m., the Canadian Finals Rodeo Final Performance will begin, and you better believe the energy is going to be as high as ever. Finishing up with Champion Presentions in the Dirt, we can’t imagine a better, more Albertan way to spend a November day. It’s free to attend and open to the public.
Alberta Singing Contest
On Friday, November 10th, contestants from all around Alberta will come together at the Calgary Central Library to fight for the title of Alberta’s next singing sensation. The competition includes solo artists, duos, and groups, and this year is going to be bigger and better than ever before. Admission is free, and you get the chance to witness your province's rising stars. Stay tuned as they reveal the talented lineup of contestants and judges.
Okotoks Christmas Market 2023
Are you ready for the 12th annual Okotoks Christmas Market? You’re in luck. It’s running twice, from November 10th to 12th and again from November 17th to 18th. This is the ideal place to kick off your Christmas shopping; everyone is welcome. The events will be at Foothills Centennials Centre and Okotoks Elks Hall. Your ticket includes entry to the second location after you’ve shopped the first. There will be tons of shopping, incredible vendors, and things to do and see. You don’t want to miss out on this!
Grapes & Grains
Head down to the All Saints Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Saint Paul on November 18th for this unique and fun event. It will be a super fun night of food and liquor tasting, and tickets are only $35. If you love to eat and drink, you’re going to be a big fan of this. The event runs from 6 pm to 11 pm, and the dress code is business casual. Of course, you must be of legal drinking age to attend.
Banff Christmas Market
It’s back! The 2023 market dates are November 17-19, November 24-26, and December 1-3, so you have plenty of chances to check it out for yourself. This unforgettable event features 100 artisanal vendors, live music, an outdoor fire lounge, Santa’s House & Reindeer Stables, holiday treats, warm drinks, and so much more. Hosted at Warner Stables in Banff, this is the perfect way to dive head-first into the holiday spirit and start your shopping a little earlier than usual.
Old Time Country Christmas
Join Scott Woods and his talented band for a heartwarming 2-hour, family-friendly live show on November 19, 2023, at the Barrhead Roxy Theatre in Barrhead, AB. This festive performance includes cherished Christmas carols, lively fiddle tunes, and Traditional Country and Gospel songs. Scott's fiddling expertise and humour will keep you entertained, while 'The Telecaster Master' Steve Piticco delivers impressive guitar solos, and Naomi Bristow yodels her way into your heart. Leo Stock showcases sensational step dancing, and Kendra Woods Norris adds sweet harmonies to create a memorable afternoon of music and merriment.
“Elf” The Musical In St. Albert
Get ready for a hilarious fish-out-of-water adventure at The Arden Theatre from November 23 to December 3, 2023. "Elf - The Musical" takes you on a journey with Buddy the Elf as he searches for his true identity, promising fun for the whole family. Based on the beloved 2003 film, this production boasts songs by Tony Award nominees Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin, and a book by Tony Award winners Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin. Don't miss this modern holiday classic that will have you embracing your inner elf and spreading Christmas cheer through song at The Arden Theatre, St. Albert Place.
Banff Craft Beer Festival
The Banff Craft Beer Festival is back at the Cave & Basin National Historic Site from November 23 to 25, 2023, starting at 5 pm. This unique event exclusively showcases Alberta's craft brewers, providing a tantalizing experience for your taste buds with offerings from over 40 local vendors. Interact with brewmasters, enjoy live entertainment, and immerse yourself in Banff's vibrant culinary and craft drink scene. It's a great opportunity to savour the rich tapestry of flavours that Alberta has to offer, all in one place. Don't miss out on this three-day celebration of craft beer and local culture.
TIS’ The Season - Athabasca
Get ready for a festive extravaganza! 'TIS the Season is here, including the Moonlight Madness Market on November 24 & 25, along with a Santa parade, fireworks, kids' crafts, gift wrapping, and Santa photos. Join us in Athabasca for a jolly time at the Athabasca Regional Multiplex on Friday, November 24, and Saturday, November 25, 2023. Entry is by donation to support Athabasca's Santa's Anonymous or Food Bank. And don't forget to capture the magic with Santa photos on Saturday! It's the perfect way to kick off the holiday season.
Cold Lake Santa Claus Parade
Cold Lake's official holiday season kicks off with the Santa Claus Parade on November 24th. Local businesses and organizations are encouraged to register for the parade. After the parade, head to the Cold Lake Energy Centre for a free Kick Off to Christmas Party. Enjoy a photo with Santa, sparkle tattoos, letter writing to Santa, and fun games. Parade photos will be on The City's Facebook page, and you can vote for the best float in two categories: Businesses and Non-Profits. Winners will be celebrated with awards and photos with the Mayor and City Council. A festive start to the season in Cold Lake!
Cochrane MADE Artisan Christmas Market
Cochrane's beloved MADE Artisan Christmas Market, taking place on November 25th and 26th, is a part of a three-weekend extravaganza featuring 50 different local retailers, each weekend filled with an array of handmade treasures. Located at the Cochrane Lions Event Centre on 109 Fifth Avenue, the market runs across three consecutive weekends, including November 18/19, November 25/26, and December 2/3, with show hours from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on Saturdays and 10:00 am to 3:00 pm on Sundays. The best part? Family admission is free, making it a fantastic opportunity for everyone to explore and find unique, locally-made gifts just in time for the holiday season.
Whisky Calgary Festival
Calling all whisky enthusiasts! On November 11, 2023, from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM, don't miss the Whisky Calgary Festival. This eagerly anticipated event offers a fantastic lineup of master classes that will take your whisky appreciation to new heights. With over 100 fine whiskies to sample from renowned distilleries, it's a tasting adventure that celebrates craftsmanship and flavour diversity. Upgrade to the VIP package for exclusive perks like private tastings, meet-and-greets with experts, and early access to the Grand Tasting Hall.
Light The Night Innisfail
Embark on a magical journey at Light the Night, a captivating drive-through light display at Discovery Wildlife Park in Innisfail, AB, from November 17, 2023, to January 1, 2024. This enchanting Christmas wonderland features unique light displays and countless twinkling lights spread over 2 kilometres. Open daily from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., it's an experience for all ages. The park's concession and gift shop are open, too, offering hot drinks, snacks, and fantastic Christmas gift ideas. You can even meet the Grinch on Wednesdays through Sundays for photos and interactions. Light the Night promises to be a cherished winter tradition.
Pincher Creek Parade of Lights
Get ready for the holiday spirit at Pincher Creek's annual Parade of Lights on November 17, 2023, from 6:15 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Head to Main Street and be part of the Christmas season kick-off. Witness businesses and organizations as they deck out parade floats with dazzling lights and parade down the main street. It's a festive event that promises to fill your evening with cheer and twinkling wonder.
Bragg Creek Artisans Annual Christmas Sale
The Bragg Creek Artisans Annual Christmas Sale is back! On November 18 and 19, 2023, from 10 am to 5 pm each day, make a day of it and enjoy some relaxing shopping in the beautiful hamlet of Bragg Creek, just a 20-minute drive west of Calgary. Discover a diverse array of handcrafted, original works of art by local artists, including paintings, jewelry, pottery, glass, woodwork, fibre arts, paper craft, stonework, and more! You can also grab some on-site food and beverages at the Soup Kitchen, and, as always, entry and parking are free.
The 2023 Canmore Christmas Artisans’ Market
Don't miss the 27th edition of the Canmore Christmas Artisan's Market on November 18 & 19, 2023, from 10 am to 4 pm at the Canmore Recreation Centre. Join 75 artisans and makers from Canmore and the surrounding areas for the Bow Valley's premier market of handcrafted treasures, including pottery, artwork, jewelry, home décor, fine foods, and more. It's the ideal place to find unique gifts for everyone on your holiday list. Admission is $5, and children under 12 are free, with all proceeds benefiting the Canmore Preschool Society.
Britanny Burr is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for the 2023/24 Cool Winter Guide advertising feature. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
