“We’re very much looking forward to the snow falling and enjoying the fun that winter brings in Strathcona County,” says Eiblis Doherty, Economic Development Officer – Tourism. Winter doesn’t feel long enough when there’s so much to do, like snow tubing at Sunridge Ski Area or cross-country skiing at the award-winning Strathcona Wilderness Centre.”
She continues, “Strathcona County is a special place any time of the year, but there’s something extra special about making memories here in the wintertime. Watch a live performance at Festival Place, or let your jaw drop watching the performance that the northern lights put on in the Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve. If you’re looking for an adventure, this is the place to find it!”
In addition to the activities listed above, mark your calendar for the following dates.
- Celebration of Lights: November 19
This indoor/outdoor event includes campfire cooking, Santa selfies, yummy treats, crafts, wagon rides and more. Dress for the weather and the holiday spirit. Don’t forget to bring a donation for the food bank! There will be some road closures and parking restrictions for this event, so check out https://www.strathcona.ca/transportation-roads/transportation for a safe and easy way to get to site. - Christmas in the Heartland: November 26 & 27
The ultimate way to get into the holiday spirit, Christmas in the Heartland brings artisans, ice carvers, bakers and crafters together for a spectacular event. Go from venue to venue to enjoy holiday markets, treats, sleigh rides, music and more. - Christmas in the Country: December 3
Your country style Christmas doesn’t stop after the Heartland event. Christmas in the Country follows next in various locations around the County. Save the link above; bus tour and additional details will be posted soon. - The CP Holiday Train: December 9
The CP Holiday Train is returning to Strathcona County for the first time since 2018. It will arrive at 5:00 p.m. at the Moyer Recreational Center at 54596 Range Road 215. Event time is from 5:15 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. Enjoy performances by Tenille Townes and Aysanabee.
This is an incredibly special event and in important fundraiser for Canada’s food banks.
Keith Creel, CP's President and Chief Executive Officer, says of the return to the rails, "I'm grateful to the CP team members who adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic to deliver two exceptional virtual Holiday Train shows and to all those who continued to donate while we kept community members safe. The Holiday Train is all about families and communities coming together to celebrate the season and help those in need. We are excited to be back out on the rails and in our communities, taking these two beautiful trains across our network and sharing the joy that comes with gathering in the spirit of giving."
Please bring a food bank donation to this event.
- Canadian Birkie Ski Festival, February 11-28
https://canadianbirkie.com/ - 2023 Special Olympics Alberta Winter Games, February 24-26
https://www.strathcona.ca/recreation-events/festivals-and-events/special-olympics-alberta-winter-games-2023
Strathcona County is the ideal mix of urban and rural. It all comes together to create exceptional experiences for locals and tourists, especially at Christmas. There are plenty of events to choose among, and boutique and national retailers that are also ready to help you get in the holiday spirit. Enjoy everything the County has to offer this season and have a wonderful winter.
