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Three Of The Best Holiday Markets Around Alberta To Get Your Last Minute Shopping Done
Posted on December 3, 2024 by Britanny Burr
December has already arrived, and we’re willing to bet you haven’t done your holiday shopping yet. We get it; finding the perfect gift for that special someone can feel like searching for a needle in a festive haystack. But fear not, last-minute holiday shoppers, we’ve got your back. Alberta’s Christmas markets are here to rescue you from the shopping mall madness and big-box blues. From handcrafted treasures to local delicacies, these markets promise the magic of Christmas, all wrapped up with festive cheer, twinkling lights, and cozy holiday vibes for even the most challenging person on your list. Here is your guide to our province's biggest and best holiday markets.
Banff Christmas Market
Nestled in the heart of the Rockies, the Banff Christmas Market combines the charm of a traditional European market with the beauty of Alberta’s stunning mountain scenery. Banff already feels like a Rocky Mountain snow globe in the winter, but this event somehow manages to turn it up a notch. Wander through the historic Banff Train Station to find local goods, holiday crafts, and festive foods. Enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides, live entertainment, and sip on mulled wine to keep you warm (and in good spirits) as you explore. Don’t miss the festive tree lighting ceremony with a special appearance from Santa Claus and the famous “Christmas in the Mountains” photo opportunity. This market is the perfect excuse for a weekend getaway in Banff.
Dates:
December 6 – 8, 2024
Admission:
Adults (11-64): $15
Seniors (65 +): $12
Children (3-10): $5
Children 2 & under: free
Edmonton Christmas Market
The capital city’s premiere holiday event brings together over 120 local vendors in a spectacular Victorian-styled setting at the historic backdrop of Fort Edmonton Park. This market offers more than just shopping. Explore artisan stalls, enjoy local food vendors, sip on hot chocolate, ride the carousel, and participate in festive activities, including carolling, Santa visits, and horse-drawn wagon rides. Perfect for families and friends to come together and kick off the holiday season in the city.
Dates:
November 28 – December 15, 2024
Admission:
Adults: $23 and up
Kids (6-17): $15
Kids (up to 5): Free
St. Albert Christmas Market
The St. Albert Christmas Market transforms into a winter wonderland filled with artisan vendors, festive food stalls, and holiday cheer. It’s a great place to enjoy the warmth of the season while discovering beautifully crafted gifts and decorations. Hosted inside the greenhouse at the Enjoy Centre, this is a large market with a whole lot to do, see, and buy, so be sure to give yourself a nice big window for shopping.
Dates:
Saturdays from November 16 – December 14, 2024
Admission:
Free
There you have it! Alberta’s holiday markets are a wonderful way to skip the mall crowds, beat the last-minute shopping rush, and enjoy the season's magic. These markets offer something for everyone, from the foodie friend who loves local honey and preserves to the style-conscious sister who appreciates handmade jewelry. Plus, you’ll support local artisans and have fun while shopping.
Remember to bring cash (though many vendors now accept cards), reusable shopping bags, and your holiday spirit. Many markets offer gift-wrapping services, so you can cross everything off your list in one festive swoop.
Britanny Burr is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for the Great West Media & Southern Alberta Newspapers Cool Winter Guide advertising feature. The Cool Winter Guide is a special feature about winter activities, bucket list adventures, winter attractions, events, and road trip-worthy food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
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