Holiday inadequacy. Everyone knows the feeling.
The yearly routine of opening Instagram or turning on the tv, and getting bombarded by a veritable avalanche of picture-perfect families having the best Christmas ever. The unshakable idea that the most wonderful time of the year just isn’t all that wonderful for you.
Especially when you’re on a tight student budget, and have finals to worry about.
We get it
That’s why we’ve compiled a list of some of the best low to no-cost winter activities available around Edmonton this holiday season, that anyone can participate in. From a visit to Candy Cane Lane to a night with the Legislator lights, you’re sure to find the perfect event for you and your loved ones.
Candy Cane Lane
Edmonton’s iconic Candy Cane Lane dates back to 1968. From Dec. 12th to Jan. 2nd, 148th St. closes to cars and is lined with elaborate decorations. All are welcome to go and see the Christmas themed displays put together by the street’s residents.
The best time to visit is definitely the evening, when the lights flare to life.
Winter sports
Edmontonians love hockey, but Oilers tickets, even bad ones, can cost upwards of $100 each. Season tickets are even more backbreakingly expensive.
Fortunately, fans can catch an Oil Kings game at Rogers Place for $20 to $30, and share in the fan experience for a more manageable price.
When the Oil Kings aren’t playing, you can dust off your skates and pay a visit to any one of the public ice rinks that dot Edmonton. Most communities have one, and they are actively used for skating and drop-in hockey every day.
Public library events
Edmonton’s numerous public libraries are vital pillars of their local communities, and they provide much more than books.
There are events hosted every single day of December, barring Christmas and Christmas Eve, at libraries across the city. They range from classes teaching subjects such as cooking, English, or tax filing, to trivia nights and movie screenings featuring Edmonton filmmakers.
All Edmonton Public Libraries events are totally free to participate in, and you will certainly walk away from them a little smarter.
Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good NAIT
In the mad dash of the holiday season, it can be too easy to get wrapped up in gift-giving, drowned in obligations, and overwhelmed by the desire to have that perfect holiday.
Just remember that the season isn’t about material-possessions; it’s about togetherness. However you spend it, and whoever you spend it with, Christmas is what you make of it! So stay warm this December, and have a merry Christmas, and a happy new year.