10 things to do this week in and around Edmonton (Dec. 1-5)

It’s officially December, which means the holidays are only getting closer.
We’ve got all the best things to do in Edmonton, the most festive and the most artsy activities in the city. No matter what you’re looking to get up to this week, we’ve got something right here for you.
Christmas Car
The extremely popular holiday streetcar ride is back for 2025. Get ready for a scenic 45-minute trip around Edmonton, where you’ll get perfect views of the River Valley, Downtown, and the Legislature in this premium experience.
When: Now until Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025
Time: Various times
Where: 10330 84th Ave. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: $10+
Edmonton Christmas Market
This market transforms Fort Edmonton Park into a winter wonderland, with glowing market huts and artisan showcases, mulled wine by firelight, live performances, culinary events, and so much more.
When: Now until Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025
Time: Varies
Where: Fort Edmonton Park — 7000 143rd St. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: $20.95+
Sponsored Pick: Fill Our Fleet
Start spreading holiday cheer this December by helping local food banks! When you donate to AMA Community Foundation’s Fill Our Fleet campaign before Dec. 31, your donation will be matched up to $100,000.
When: Now until Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2024
Time: Various times
Where: Any AMA Centre
Cost: Free
The Polar Express Train Ride
Alberta’s premier Polar Express experience is back for another year, and it begins this weekend. Hop aboard the famed train and experience Christmas magic like no other.
When: Now to Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2025
Time: Various times
Where: Alberta Prairie Railway Excursions — 4611 47th Ave., Stettler, Alta.
Cost: $105
Christmas Carol
Ebenezer Scrooge has been given just one night to redeem himself, but will the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future help him overcome a lifetime of indifference before all hope is lost? Edmonton’s favourite Christmas tradition returns to the Citadel.
When: Now until Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025
Time: Various times
Where: Citadel Theatre/McLab Theatre — 9828 101A Ave., Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: $40+
Magic of Lights
The Canadian Tire Magic of Lights is a dazzling 2.7-kilometre drive through featuring over two million LED Lights and Digital Animation, right in Edmonton.
When: Now until Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026
Time: Various times
Where: RAD Torque Raceway – Edmonton International Airport — 50342 Range Rd., Alta.
Cost: $35+
Art of Banksy
You can now visit the Art of Banksy right in Edmonton City Centre. This art exhibition takes you through over 200 pieces of artwork by the street artist Banksy, including interactive displays like the Infinity Room.
When: Now until Sunday, Jan. 11, 2025
Time: Varies
Where: 10025 102A Ave. NW #114, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: $21+
Glow
Glow Edmonton is returning for another year of lights galore, featuring over one million lights this year. Full of activities and events for all ages, Glow is a fantastic holiday event to have on your radar. Not only is this its biggest year yet, but it’s introducing its new theme for 2025, the Enchanted Forest.
When: Thursday, Dec. 4 to Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025
Time: Various times
Where: Edmonton Expo Centre — 7515 118th Ave. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: $17.99+
Butterdome Craft Sale
This annual craft sale, hosted in the enormous Butterdome facility, never fails to disappoint.
When: Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025, to Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025
Time: Various times
Where: Universiade Pavilion (Butterdome) — 11440 87th Ave. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: $5+
Zoominesence
For the 13th year, the Edmonton Valley Zoo will be hosting Zoominescence, presented by The King’s University.
This festival opens up the zoo during the colder months for a spectacular exhibition of artistic light installations for guests of all ages to admire and enjoy.
When: Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, to Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026
Time: 4:30 to 10 p.m.
Where: 13315 Buena Vista Rd., Edmonton, Alta
Cost: $15.95+
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