Best Places to See Santa in Edmonton
Christmas is a time of wonder. The lights, the presents, and the music all add up to a season that fills our minds with memories and our hearts with delight. None of this is more evident than through the eyes of a child. Many of us have memories of leaving out cookies for Santa on Christmas Eve and then waking up to gifts under the tree in the morning. Visiting Santa is a highlight of the season for many children as they sit on his lap and verbalize their gift list. Even though we as adults know that it’s just a kind soul donning a big belly and red suit, we still love seeing the awe in the eyes of the kids as they visit Santa himself.
If seeing Santa is on your list of things to do this holiday season, then we have suggestions for you on the best places to see Santa in Edmonton. From attractions to stores, prepare that holiday list and get the kiddos ready to visit good ole’ Saint Nick.
GLOW EDMONTON: GLOW AROUND THE WORLD
If you are looking for a Christmas market, light show, and live entertainment, then Christmas Glow Edmonton is the place to go! Not only do they have visits with Santa, but their holiday theme this year is all about the jolly guy. Children can help Santa “Glow Around the World” as they try to help Mr. Claus deliver presents in 6 different countries. Not only can kids tell their Christmas wishes to Santa, but they can also play on playgrounds, stroll through the Christmas Light Gardens, and ride on Glen the Glow-comotive.
Adults can peruse the market filled with local artisans and enjoy seasonal beverages. Christmas Glow truly has something for everyone, no matter his or her age. The best part? The entire thing is under roof, so you can enjoy all of the activities regardless of the weather.
Leduc Santa Claus Parade
Although it’s not in Edmonton proper, Leduc – where the parade takes place – it’s about 30 minutes south and is worth the drive to visit the Santa Claus Parade. The route runs down Main Street and is accompanied by entertainment and hot chocolate. What a festive way to bundle the family up and get them out and about this season!
Festival of Trees
The Edmonton Convention Centre hosts the annual Festival of Trees, which includes creative gingerbread structures, a holiday fashion show, and breakfast with Santa. Both free and paid activities are available for children, such as listening to holiday book readings, writing a letter to Santa, decorating gingerbread cookies, and colouring ornaments.
Hometown Weekend
If you’d like to head 30 minutes north of Edmonton instead, you will encounter Gibbons, which hosts an annual Hometown Weekend. Enjoy a Community Pancake Breakfast on Saturday morning followed by purchasing gifts at the Christmas Farmer’s Market and Craft Sale. Sunday’s festivities include carolers, horse-drawn carriage rides, crafts, cookie decorating, Santa’s Dollar Store, and a surprise visit by Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Children can also skate with Santa on Sunday afternoon, which is followed by the Parade of Lights. This two-day event is filled with merriment and Santa encounters!
Winter Whyte Light Up
This event takes place at McIntyre Park and is bursting with ways to get into the holiday spirit! See carolers, visit the shops in Old Strathcona, and enjoy live musical performances. A bonus is that there are fire pits to keep warm, which also includes s’more making stations. Yum! Children can enjoy visiting the Santa photo booth at the library, and those 18 and up should head on over to the Holiday Speakeasy. There is such a variety at the Winter Whyte Light Up that everyone is sure to find something to do!
Santa Edmonton
Imagine your child’s face if you brought Santa to them! That is what can happen if you hire Santa Edmonton to come to your home. He will even record a personal video for your child and can send an official “nice list” certificate and medallion to reinforce that your child has been a good boy or girl this year. Visit Santa Edmonton’s website to keep up with where you can go to have your child sit on his lap and recite their wishlist.
Edmonton Santa Shuffle
If you want to include a different way to see Santa into your holiday plans, then experiencing the Edmonton Santa Shuffle may be the way to go. Designed as a fundraiser for the Salvation Army, children can participate in the 1km Elf Walk or the 5km Fun Run. Kids of all ages can prance, run, or walk their way along the running path, and there will be lots of “Santas” in view as participants dress up as Santa, Mrs. Claus, the elves, and just about anything Christmas related. Although this event doesn’t involve photos or listing off gift wishes, it does let people focus on raising money for those in need while burning a few calories at the same time.