Winter Whyte Light Up is returning for this year’s holiday season, and it’s bringing along streetcar rides, live performances, and so many more fun festivities in the heart of Edmonton’s Old Strathcona.

Each year, this neighbourhood kicks off the holidays with a magical winter event: Winter Whyte Light Up. This evening is filled with loads of ways to celebrate the season, from free family-friendly activities to intimate opportunities. According to the Old Strathcona Business Association, some all-new concepts and programming are lined up for this year’s event, like more engaging activities (both indoors and outdoors) as well as main stage performances, too!

If you’re ready for this year’s holiday extravaganza, mark your calendars, because the big evening is just around the corner.

What to expect at this year’s Winter Whyte Light Up

The light-up event will be taking over Old Strathcona on Saturday, Nov. 28, from 4 to 8 p.m. During this time, guests are welcome to explore McIntyre Park and all the holiday festivities popping up for the evening.

According to the event’s webpage, this year’s activities include:

  • Roving entertainers
  • Live ice carving
  • Cultural experiences
  • Indoor crafts and storytimes
  • A photo booth
  • Edmonton Streetcar rides (weather dependent)
  • More free family-friendly activities

You’ll be able to find some of these free activities both outdoors and indoors. The indoor festivities can be found at partnering venues, Edmonton Public Library and the Old Strathcona Farmers Market.

This year also brings the inaugural Winter Whyte Variety Show. The show is a new part of the celebration, showcasing a selection of talented performers, including:

  • Stranded in Abbotsford
  • Zachary Moostoos-Willier
  • Rumba Caliente
  • Caylie G
  • Tomi Lumiere

In addition to all the activities, the area itself will be illuminated with a wonderful array of lights all across the gazebo, trees, and pathways. Visitors will be able to enjoy the magical atmosphere, alongside light installations by local artists in the park (another new addition for 2026).

For those already prepared to jump into the winter season, this community celebration is worth heading down for. With streetcar rides, ice carving, and a neighbourhood full of lights to take in, it’ll be an evening to remember.

Winter Whyte Light Up

When: Saturday, Nov. 28, 2026
Time: 4 to 8 p.m.
Where: Dr. Wilbert McIntyre Park — 8331 104th St. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: Free

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Alyssa Gallardo

Alyssa Gallardo

Alyssa is a Staff Writer for Dished and Curiocity Edmonton. She’s a big fan of everything entertainment, and can always be seen running around the city going from concert to concert.

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