Welcome to High River!
- Holiday Information for Residents December 20 - January 1, see below.
- For Christmas in High River fun and information visit the High River Little Britches and Santa Claus Parades Facebook page
- More local holiday events can be found on our events calendar or scroll below for more information on things to do in High River!
Our town undergoes a magical transformation each year, becoming a community bursting with holiday cheer. The warmth of High River's communal spirit radiates as we join forces to create a joy-filled season. We invite you to revisit or explore our special events this year, featuring a full lineup of festive activities returning for Christmas 2023!
As a proud supporter of our region's only nighttime Santa parade, High River kicks off the holiday magic on the first Friday in December. This unforgettable family experience is orchestrated by the High River Little Britches and Santa Parade Committee, with the support of our entire community and incredible volunteers!
Residents and visitors are encouraged to take a leisurely stroll through our festively decorated streets and discover that perfect, one-of-a-kind gift at one of our unique specialty stores and local craft markets. You can also indulge in a steaming mug of hot chocolate or savour a delicious meal at one of our charming cafes or restaurants.
If you wish to extend your stay, make yourself at home in a luxury room or a cozy bed and breakfast. High River offers itself as a destination or a memorable highlight along your journey.
Join us in making this holiday season truly magical in High River!
2023 Holiday Events & Holiday Information for Residents
Holiday Information for Residents - Facility hours, closures, garbage collection and safety tips
Things to Enjoy in High River this Holiday Season!
For Christmas in High River fun and information visit the High River Little Britches and Santa Claus Parades Facebook page
More local holiday events can be found on our events calendar.
Things to Do in High River!
Shop local and support High River makers, bakers, farmers and more. You will love the markets and unique local shopping in High River, all within easy walking distance of amazing, local cafes and restaurants.
George Lane Memorial Park Lights
Accommodations and Dining in High River
Museum of the Highwood and Visitor Centre and Museum of the Highwood Facebook Page
Winter Ways to Play!
Snowshoeing and Cross Country Skiing
- Happy Trails
- Sunshine Lake – 9 Ave SE
- Montrose – Monteith Dr SE
- Emerson Lake – 9 Ave SE
- Highwood Lake Village
- River Valley – access off of the north end of 7 St SW
Tobogganing Hills
- Emerson Lake (NW Corner)
- Emerson Road Playground
- Charles Clark Park
Walking/Bird watching /Photography
- Frank Lake – located 12km east of High River
- Happy Trails – View the Happy Trails Map
- Nature enjoyment and Photography
Jingle Bell Festival & Vintage Market Dec 16
Come join us on Saturday, December 16, for a family fun event day at the Highwood Memorial Centre and George Lane Park.
Highwood Memorial Centre
- Vintage Market from 12:00-6:00 pm
- Children's holiday craft corner
George Lane Park
- Wagon Rides through George Lane Park from 3:00-5:00 pm and 5:30-7:30 pm
- Photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus from 6:00-8:00 pm
- Skating
- Snowman making competition
- Elf training camp
**Some times still to be determined; information will be updated before December 1st, 2023**
More holiday events can be found on our events calendar.
37th Annual High River Santa Claus Parade Dec 01
Start your holiday season with a parade!
Free to attend - No ticket required
Parade Theme: Celebrating Moms
The 37th Annual High River Santa Claus Parade will be taking to the streets of downtown as part of a fun-filled evening and a family tradition for many.
Finish up your evening by shopping the Winter Market along with other downtown stores and touring our Light Up High River Christmas decorating participants.
Visit the below links for the latest details and parade route map:
- Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/highriverparades
- Website -https://highriverchristmas.ca/
Evening Schedule • Dec 01, 2023
- 5:00 pm • Entertainment begins
- 5:30 pm • Lions' hot dogs and hot chocolate
- 6:00 pm • Official Light Up George Lane Park
- 6:30 pm • Santa Claus Parade begins
After the parade:
- Visit with Santa at the Museum of the Highwood after the Parade
- Winter Market & Gift of Hope Market
- Bell Choir
- Downtown shopping
- Nativity Exhibition
- Light Up George Lane Park
- Light Up High River
Santa Skate & Movie Night Dec 02
Bring your family for an evening of fun, including skating, hot chocolate, hot dogs, popcorn, photo opportunities with Santa, and a Christmas movie on the big screen in the fieldhouse!
- Date: Saturday, December 2, 2023
- Location: At the Bob Snodgrass Recreation Complex (Large Arena & Fieldhouse)
- Santa Skate: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
- Movie & Popcorn: 7:00 PM
- Free to attend!