Didn’t score Taylor Swift tickets for next week? Don’t fret—you can still find your “enchanted” moment at some of the season’s most exciting winter festivals. From breathtaking light displays in British Columbia to festive markets in Alberta, Western Canada knows how to celebrate winter like nowhere else.
So, how do we prevent the FOMO from happening again?
This winter is packed with epic events, so if you have openings in your calendar, it’s time to change that now. We’ve rounded up some must-see winter festivals for the 2024-25 season. Spanning from Vancouver to Tofino, Banff, Edmonton, and more, these festivals are exactly what you need to make this festive season one to remember.
Celebrate the winter season at Tofino Resort’s 5th annual Sea of Lights event. Head to the Marina to admire stunning light displays, a grand outdoor Christmas tree, a festive craft market, and the joyful sounds of caroling by the water. (How romantic!).
Experience ultimate winter fun at the Winter Festival and Market at Gibsons Public Market this 2024-25 season. From unique holiday shopping to live music, cheerful happy hours, and fun-filled activities for all ages, it’s a weekend brimming with festive cheer.
The Indigenous Artist Market Collective (I.A.M. Collective) proudly presents A Very Indigenous Holiday Market! Enjoy three days with 150+ Indigenous makers, live entertainment, free admission, and prizes—support local, support Indigenous, and find perfect holiday gifts!
Immerse yourself in a botanical wonderland this winter season at the VanDusen Festival of Lights. Wander through 15 acres of twinkling lights, featuring a captivating new interactive mycelium installation and a display inspired by BC’s iconic Great Bear Rainforest.
Set within the Cascade Garden, this magical outdoor experience follows an enchanted trail brought to life with glowing sculptures, immersive storytelling, and captivating soundscapes. Learn about the event details here.
Really, there is nothing that screams "Jingle Bells" more than the Northern Spirit Light Show at Evergeen Park in Grande Prairie. Ride the festive sleigh ride or winter cruise through dazzling light displays-- entirely crafted by local families, community groups, and businesses.
Truly, is there anything more festive than supporting a great cause? In 2022, the event has raised over $90,000 for local charities, bringing the total to an impressive $600,000 over its 16+ year history.
Learn more about how you can make a change too!
ZOOLIGHTS, presented by Olympia Trust Company, is back for its 28th season in 2024-25—bigger, brighter, and bolder than ever! Calgary’s favorite holiday spectacle transforms the zoo into a magical winter wonderland guaranteed to spark your festive spirit.
Glow Langley is back with a new theme: The Enchanted Forest. Step into a world of light-filled gardens, whimsical creatures, and talking trees in a winter adventure that celebrates nature. Get your glow on here!
Glow Edmonton (YEG) brings the magic of Christmas to life with a nostalgic twist. The theme this year is Christmas Carnival, blending the joy of the holiday season with the vibrant excitement of a carnival, all set in the Edmonton Expo Centre. Find out more here!
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With so many incredible winter festivals lighting up Western Canada this season, there really is no reason to let FOMO dim your spirits. So if you’re missing out on Taylor Swift, don’t worry. These festivals will definitely make your wildest dreams come true!
Start planning for the 2024-25 winter season with a look at some of the top winter festivals in British Columbia and Alberta below.
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