Holiday festivals, Disney and blockbusters: Here’s what’s happening in Edmonton this weekend

Figure skaters depicting Anna ad Olaf from Frozen are performing a musical number from Disney on Ice: Let's Dance, in an undated file photo. (Courtesy: Disney on Ice)

Despite Edmonton’s weekend forecast of reaching 3 to 7 C by the afternoon, the city will see plenty of holiday events to ring in the season.

Here’s what’s happening on what could be Edmonton’s last above-zero weekend of the year:

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Holiday cheer

Winterval

Downtown Winterval will take over 104 Street with twinkling lights, music, winter patios and festive cheer.

Guests can expect ice carving workshops, free maple taffy, fire pits, street performers, jolly old St. Nick himself, sleigh rides and a full lineup of musical acts, including the Brasstactics, Melafrique, Johnny Infamous, and Major Love.

Some of Edmonton’s best restaurants, including Bernadette’s, one of OpenTable’s top 100 picks in Canada last year, will be on-site offering dishes to attendees.

More information can be found on the Edmonton Downtown Business Association’s website.

Where: 104 Street, north of Jasper Avenue

When: Saturday from 3 to 8 p.m.

Admission: Free

Kingsway Holiday Parade

The Kingsway District Association is putting on its annual holiday parade to spread some cheer this weekend.

The parade route will begin at the east entrance of Airport Road and head toward Kingsway Mall where Santa will be waiting.

Organizers encourage guests to watch the parade from the south side of Kingsway Avenue and bring a food donation for Edmonton’s Food Bank.

Additional information is available on the organizer’s website.

Where: Airport Road East and Kingsway Avenue

When: Saturday at5 p.m.

Admission: Free

Maisie’s Magical Christmas House

Thousands of lights are strung up for a magical holiday display in north Edmonton.

Maisie’s Magical Christmas House has become a long-running tradition in the community since its debut in 2004.

Guests can expect animatronics, props, music, picture-perfect backdrops for photos, and characters

Second Chance Animal Rescue Society volunteers will be at the house on opening night accepting donations.

Where: 9619 144 Ave. NW

When: From Saturday to Jan. 4, 2026

Admission: Free

Holiday Geeky Gift Market

What do you get when you mix the holiday spirit and pop culture enthusiasts – the Holiday Geeky Gift Market happening this weekend at Edmonton Expo Centre.

Artists and vendors will be putting their collectibles, art and homemade holiday decorations up for sale for anyone looking to knock off a few gifts on their loved ones’ wishlists – or even a gift for yourself.

A new feature this year includes a cosplay catwalk and costume contest. Applicants can sign up for the contests on site and could win up to $50 in spending money as well as donated wares from vendors.

More information on the event can be found on the Geeky Market and Events website.

Where: Edmonton Expo Centre, 7515 118 Ave. NW

When: Saturday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission: $10 to $15

On stage, on ice

Beyond the Barrier Film Festival

Ten short documentaries produced by young Edmonton filmmakers will be screened at the Stanley Milner Public Library this weekend.

The short films put a spotlight on multicultural communities in Edmonton and their resiliency in the face of discrimination.

Ticket holders will get to hear stories from those involved in the documentaries through a panel discussion.

For more information on the film festival, visit the event’s website.

Where: Muttart Theatre, Stanley Milner Public Library, 7 Sir Winston Churchill

When: Saturday from 1:30 to 5 p.m.

Admission: Free

Disney on Ice: Let’s Dance

The on-ice spectacle has come to Rogers Place featuring some of Disney’s most recognizable characters, including Elsa, Moana, Belle and, of course, Mickey Mouse.

Audiences will experience intricate skating performances, costumes, and larger-than-life set pieces accompanied by familiar Disney tunes.

Tickets for the event are available on Ticketmaster.

Where: Rogers Place, 10220 104 Ave.

When: Saturday and Sunday, various times

Admission: $46 to $153

Superheroes & Blockbusters

Award winning composer Michael Giacchino’s soundtracks for some of Hollywood’s biggest franchises will be performed for movie and music lovers alike.

The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra will be playing blockbuster scores from various films such as Jurassic World, Up, Spider-Man: Far From Home, Mission: Impossible, The Batman, and more.

Tickets can be purchased on the Winspear Centre’s website.

Where: 4 Sir Winston Churchill Square

When: Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m.

Admission: $37 and up