Edmonton is getting a Christmas celebration with free Santa photos and festive treats

Christmas at Callingwood is taking over Edmonton for one festive-filled day, featuring loads of free activities and things to enjoy, like horse-drawn wagon rides, maple taffy, and so much more.

For this year’s holiday season, Christmas at Callingwood will be turning The Marketplace at Callingwood into the North Pole’s office for the day. Guests can visit the neighbourhood during this event in December for a magical holiday experience with endless family-friendly fun. Whether you’re taking photos with Santa or hopping aboard the horse-drawn wagon for a ride, it’s definitely worth checking out.

What to expect when visiting Christmas at Callingwood

This Christmas event will be coming to Callingwood on Sunday, Dec. 6, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

According to the event page, guests will be able to enjoy a variety of festive things to do, including:

• Free Santa photos
  • One or two photos will be available per family, with one free printed 5×7 photo card to take home. Extra prints will be available to buy on the spot.
• Horse-drawn hayrides
  • Thanks to Lone Star Ranch, horse-drawn hayrides will be available about every 10 minutes, taking 25 riders at a time (first come, first served). If changes are made due to weather, updates will be made on the event’s website by 9 a.m. Sunday.
• Elf Academy and North Pole approved stickers
  • This activity is new for this year, giving kids the chance to find their official elf name and make their own ornament on the way to meet Santa. Guests will also get a North Pole Approved sticker, an official elf certificate, and will have access to a photo-op area.
• Roaming characters
  • Appearances from the Holiday Grouch (more commonly known as the Grinch) and Cindy Lou.
• Free festive treats
  • The Canadian Maple Shack will be offering maple taffy on snow, and a warming station will be pouring hot chocolate and coffee (not to mention a candy cane treat on the way out). All of these treats will be free, while supplies last.
• Carolers
  • Four sets of performances from The Sugarplums.

How much is admission?

The entire event is free, and admission is by donation. As stated on the event’s website, donations will be collected for Santa’s Anonymous, and attendees are asked to bring a toy or cash contribution.

If you’re looking for a community-driven, family-friendly gathering over the holidays, you’ll want to check out Callingwood this season. With free treats, photos, and fun for all, it’ll be a good time guaranteed.

Christmas at Callingwood

When: Sunday, Dec. 6, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: The Marketplace at Callingwood — 6655 178th St. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: Free

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