You won’t find a shortage of holiday events in and around Red Deer. Some are community-based and free, while others are private performances, displays and celebrations that charge an entrance fee or a donation. All events are sure to spread a little holiday cheer in your community.
On the Stage
Dickens’s holiday classic, A Christmas Carol, comes on stage in Red Deer with a twist. Instead of presenting the story as written, the audience has to provide some of the background story. You could turn Scrooge into a salesman or give Tiny Tim a different disability. Held at the Scott Block Theater, you can attend the show as a matinee or at night as dinner theater.
Take in the annual performance of the Nutcracker at Red Deer College. The theater packs five shows into three days in mid-December as evening and matinee performances, making it easy to take the whole family or make it an evening date.
Winter Lights
If you’re up for a few hours’ drive, head to Lethbridge for the evening to view the lights at the Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden. The 100,000-plus lights are up through February 2, 2019.
Zoo Lights are much closer to home at the Calgary Zoo. Besides the light exhibits, you’ll be able to ice skate, visit with Santa and participate in child-oriented activities.
Go to Spruce Meadows to take a two-kilometer drive strung with 50 kilometers of lights. Stretch your legs by enjoying a hot beverage and pastry at the Founders Plaza.
Free is always good, and so is the Lions Festival of Lights in Calgary at Confederation Park in northwest Calgary. It runs until January 8, 2019.
If you’d like to enjoy an evening ride in a horse-drawn carriage, go to Heritage Ranch in Red Deer. Admission includes hot chocolate and warm blankets.
Red Deer Events to Catch Next Year
The celebrations and events start in late November in this region. Next year, look for the
Annual Holiday Concert – Sounds of the Season performed by the Red Deer College’s Chamber Choir, Symphonic Winds and Percussion Ensemble.
Head up the road to Blackfalds to take a ride on the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train. Your donations go toward supporting food banks and solving hunger issues in Canada and the U.S. The Holiday Train has hundreds of thousands of LED lights and measures about 1,000 feet long.
A Choral Christmas in Red Deer gets you in the holiday spirit by presenting all your favorites performed by the Red Deer Choir.
Festival of the Trees at Westerner Park showcases Christmas trees, a Candy Cane Lane, the Sweet Shoppe, a gift shop and silent auction. There is free stage entertainment and refreshments are available.
Be sure to plan ahead and reserve your tickets in advance to events with limited spots. Whatever you decide to do, the holiday season in Red Deer is sure to be a grand experience. Happy holidays from your neighbors at Alair Homes Red Deer!