December can be a fairly expensive month. Being end of the year, and with holiday shopping, if you’re looking to do things in town while cutting costs, check out our free and cheap things to do in Edmonton this month!

ZOOMINESCENCE

From dazzling installations to entertainment and more, Zoominescence has returned and it’s going to be enchanting! Bundle up and head over to the Edmonton Valley Zoo to celebrate 10 wonderful years of Light, Love, and Animal Conservation!

When: Starts Friday, December 2nd, 2022
Where: 13315 Buena Vista Road
Cost: $14.95

DOWNTOWN HOLIDAY LIGHT UP

The Downtown Holiday Light Up is back, and the theme this year will explore the North, featuring an insta-worthy life-sized illuminated polar bear, LED-lit iceberg and a festive 10-metre wide light wall. You can also harness your inner DIY spirit with lantern-making workshops, while taking time to experience Indigenous performances, art installations, giveaways, games and more.

When: Saturday, December 3rd, 2022
Where: Rice Howard Way
Cost: Free

CANDY CANE LANE

Get ready, because one of Edmonton’s most iconic holiday experiences returns this holiday season! An event that’s been around for years, Candy Cane Lane is a Christmas extravaganza that features incredible decorations, lights and fun – plus, it’s free to check out!

When: Select nights from December 9th to 23rd
Where: 148 Street between 99 Avenue to 92 Avenue
Cost: Free

CHRISTMAS CAROL SING-A-LONG

It’s back for the 21st year! The annual Christmas Carol Sing-Along will definitely put you in the festive spirit. The event is by donation, and raises funds for holiday food hampers and Adopt-A-Teen programs.

When: Friday, December 9th, 2022
Where: 4 Sir Winston Churchill Square
Cost: By cash donation at the door

ENCHANTED FOREST

This December, wander through the ‘Enchanted Forest’ a Christmas tree festival where Edmontonians from all walks of life have purchased and decorated Firs with tinsel, beads, lights and love – for your enjoyment! Check it out, get dazzled and leave bright-eyed!

When: On now until January 7th, 2023
Where: 10005 102 St
Cost: Free

EDMONTON CHRISTMAS MARKET 

Featuring local vendors, artists, food, crafts and more – this month, you have got to check out our last and final shopping event – the Edmonton Christmas Market. With so many things under one roof – and in celebration of the season – you won’t regret starting your engine for this one, assuming you’ve got a good long to-buy list with some unique items on it. Don’t miss it, friends, and have fun!

When: Wednesday, November 30th to December 18th, 2022
Where: 7000 143 St NW, Edmonton
Cost: $15

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CP HOLIDAY TRAIN

The CP Holiday Train is hitting cities from coast to coast for its 24th year, supporting food banks and food shelves by raising money, food, and awareness for food insecurity issues. It will be in Edmonton this month.

When:  Friday, December 9th, 2022
Where: South of the old Edmonton CP Station, 7935 Gateway Blvd.
Cost: Free, but attendees encouraged to bring a cash or non-perishable food donation

MORGAN PAGE 

Looking for a space to dance on a Saturday night? Look no further than Morgan Page, who is bound to make that happen. Best part? It’s free before 10:30 pm.

When: Saturday, December 10th, 2022
Where: Union Hall, 6240 99 St NW
Cost: Free before 10:30 pm

DISENCHANTED MARKET YEG

The DisEnchanted Market YEG showcases local makers & small shops. This season, there will be photos with Santa available, with all proceeds going to the Edmonton Food Bank. Donations for the Food Bank are also encouraged upon entry.

When: Sunday, December 11th, 2022
Where: Alberta Aviation Museum, 11410 Kingsway Northwest Edmonton
Cost:  Free, by donation

ACC ICE WALL

The Ice Wall is coming back to Edmonton this winter! At last, we can experience the thrills of ice climbing, without, you know, having to try and make our way up a frozen waterfall and really freaking out about it.

When: Opening TBD
Where: 9613 96 Avenue NW
Cost: $19+

If you’re looking for more events to check out, head over to our full list of December events in Edmonton. And have a great month!