Take care of some shopping while delighting in various art exhibits and performances at Edmonton’s A Very Indigenous Holiday Market. Go for a family event that blends today’s Christmas traditions with Alberta’s Indigenous roots with Christmas at Fort Whoop Up in Lethbridge. Or, say good-bye to 2021 and toast to 2022 at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino’s Mardi Gras NYE Party in Kananaskis.
A Very Indigenous Holiday Market by IAM Collective
This December 10th to 12th, Edmonton residents and visitors are invited to the Indigenous Artist Market (IAM) Collective’s annual A Very Indigenous Holiday Market. Featuring 80 Indigenous vendors, there’s something for every member of the family from the little ones to grandma and grandpa. While checking off the Christmas list with memorable gifts including crafts, art, apparel, food and beverage products is a big draw, there’s so much more at this market. That includes various Indigenous artists, musicians, performances, and acts that are sure to delight and excite. You definitely won’t want to miss Friday night’s hip hop performers, fashion show, and burlesque performance. In the spirit of the holidays, attendance is free, but guests are encouraged to donate unused socks, underwear, or toiletries, or gently used winter clothing for those in need.
Where:
- The Alberta Aviation Museum Hanger
- 11410 Kingsway NW, Edmonton, AB T5G 0X4
When:
- Dec. 10th – 3-11 p.m.
- Dec. 11th – 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Dec. 12th – 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Christmas at the Fort
If you find yourself in the southern part of our province this holiday season, Lethbridge’s Fort Whoop-Up welcomes your family to celebrate the holidays with them at Christmas at the Fort on Sunday, December 19th. Even Santa Claus is making a special stop during his busy season for a visit to meet with guests. You can make your own Christmas craft, the blacksmith is offering hand-forged trinkets, and of course, there will be delicious Christmas treats.
Where:
- Fort Whoop-Up
- 200 Indian Battle Rd S, Lethbridge, Alberta, T1J 5B3
- Phone: 403-320-3954
When:
- Sunday December 19th – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- All ages welcome
- Registration required
- Fort admission fees apply
Mardi Gras NYE Party at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino
The excitement packed Mardi Gras NYE Party is sure to be a memorable one for couples, friend groups, and families as it offers something special for everyone. Experience a delicious five course Mardi Gras tasting menu with seatings at 5:30 pm or 8 pm or keep it casual at Sidelines Lounge. There will also be late-night food, including Mardi Gras features, available starting at 10 pm to keep the night going. There will also be featured drinks – guitar hurricane & king cake shooters. The Chill lounge will feature a live band to kick up the vibe from 8 pm to midnight, when there will be a champagne toast to mark the occasion. Hotel guests are welcome to enjoy the pool until midnight, take in a family scavenger hunt with prizes for the kids, and attend a non-alcoholic toast together at midnight.
Where:
- Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino
- 888 Nakoda Way, Kananaskis, Alberta, T0L 1N0
- Phone: 403-881-2830
When:
- December 31st
- Five course Mardi Gras tasting menu – 5:30 p.m. or 8 p.m. ($75 per person, includes 1 glass of wine) Reservations required.
The year 2021 has been a challenging year for many. Why not send it out by creating new traditions and cultural experiences this December?
Natalie Noble is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for the Cool Winter Guide advertising feature. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
