Looking for the perfect way to kick off the holiday season in Central Alberta? The Festival of Trees Red Deer is one of the most loved local traditions for a reason. For more than three decades, families have headed to Westerner Park every late November to wander through rooms filled with beautifully decorated Christmas trees, let the kids loose on Candy Cane Lane, and support a cause that truly matters.
The 2026 edition of Festival of Trees Red Deer runs November 27–29 at the Neeralta Pavilion. Here’s everything you need to know before you go — dates, costs, what to expect, and practical tips so you can plan with zero stress.
2026 Dates, Hours & Location
Festival of Trees Red Deer 2026 takes place Friday, November 27 through Sunday, November 29 at Westerner Park (Neeralta Pavilion), 4847A 19 Street, Red Deer.
Typical public hours based on recent years (confirm closer to the event on the official site):
- Friday & Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. (Candy Cane Lane usually closes at 8:00 p.m.)
- Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Parking is free all weekend. The Neeralta Pavilion is easy to find once you’re on the Westerner Park grounds. If you’re planning a longer Central Alberta trip around the holidays, you may also want to check the Alberta statutory holidays 2026 calendar so you can coordinate time off.
Admission Prices & Tickets
Gate admission is affordable and paid on-site. Recent pricing has been:
- Ages 13 and up: $10
- Children 4–12: $5
- Seniors 65+: $8
- Ages 3 and under: Free
Special ticketed events (Festival of Wines & Spirits, Mistletoe Magic daddy-daughter dance, and occasional breakfast or preview events) are sold separately and often sell out weeks in advance. These usually go on sale in early fall through the official Festival of Trees website.
Silent auction bidding on the decorated trees typically opens online the evening before the public days begin. You can view and bid from home, then continue in person during public hours.
Always double-check current prices and special-event availability at reddeerfestivaloftrees.ca as details are finalized closer to November. Many families treat Festival of Trees Red Deer as their official start to the Christmas season.
What You’ll Find at the Festival
The heart of the event is the Tree Room. Dozens of uniquely decorated Christmas trees and wreaths — created by volunteers, local businesses, and “festival elves” — fill the space. Themes range from classic and elegant to fun, whimsical, and sometimes wonderfully over-the-top. All are available through one of Central Alberta’s largest silent auctions.
Candy Cane Lane is the big draw for kids. This dedicated zone offers more than 20 games, activities, and crafts. Games require coupons (usually $1 each), so bring some cash or plan to buy a handful on site. Santa often makes appearances on a set schedule throughout the weekend.
Other highlights include:
- A Gift & Sweet Shop stocked with local artisan items, treats, and stocking stuffers
- An entertainment stage with children’s choirs and local performers (included with admission)
- Raffles for mini trees, wreaths, and other prizes
- Plenty of photo opportunities among the trees
The atmosphere is festive without feeling overwhelming. Most families spend 1.5 to 3 hours depending on how long the kids want to play games and how many trees they want to admire. Festival of Trees Red Deer consistently ranks as one of the most reliable family events of the year. For more family-friendly ideas across the province, see our guide to the best free things to do with kids in Edmonton.
Is Festival of Trees Worth It for Families?
Yes — especially if you have kids under 12. Candy Cane Lane alone often justifies the admission for younger families. The trees create a magical indoor experience that works well even on cold or snowy Alberta days, and the whole event has a strong community feel.
Tips that make the visit smoother:
- Go earlier in the day or on Sunday if you prefer fewer crowds.
- Bring a reusable bag or small cart if you plan to shop or win raffle items.
- Budget for a few Candy Cane Lane coupons per child.
- Check the Santa schedule if a visit with Santa is high on your list.
- Wear comfortable shoes — you’ll be walking and standing.
Adults without kids still enjoy it for the tree displays, silent auction, and the chance to support local healthcare while getting into the holiday spirit. If you’re comparing holiday markets, the Banff Christmas Market 2026 offers a different mountain-town vibe later in the season. First-timers often leave saying Festival of Trees Red Deer exceeded their expectations.
Supporting Local Healthcare
Every dollar raised through Festival of Trees goes to the Red Deer Regional Health Foundation. In recent years the focus has been on advancing cardiac care at Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre, including progress toward a cardiac catheterization lab that will bring critical services closer to home for Central Albertans. Attending is an easy, enjoyable way to support something bigger than the trees themselves. For broader context on healthcare in the province, our Health Quality Alberta guide covers related resources.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Parking: Free and generally straightforward at Westerner Park.
- Food: Limited options on site; many families grab a meal in Red Deer before or after.
- Accessibility: The pavilion is indoor and accessible. Contact organizers ahead if you have specific needs.
- Nearby: Pair your visit with other Red Deer holiday activities or a stop at local shops.
- Volunteering: The event relies on hundreds of volunteers. Student and community volunteer opportunities are usually posted on the official website in the fall.
If you’re new to the area or considering a move, our cost of living in Red Deer Alberta 2026 breakdown and the moving to Alberta 2026 ultimate newcomer guide can help you get oriented beyond the holiday events.
FAQ
When is Festival of Trees Red Deer 2026?
November 27–29, 2026 at Westerner Park.
How much does Festival of Trees Red Deer cost?
Recent gate admission has been $10 for adults, $5 for children 4–12, $8 for seniors, and free for ages 3 and under. Special events are extra.
Is Festival of Trees good for young kids?
Very much so. Candy Cane Lane is designed for children and is one of the most popular parts of the event.
Can I bid on the trees online?
Yes. Online silent auction bidding typically opens the day before public hours begin.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance for the main event?
No, gate admission is purchased on site. Only the special evening events require advance tickets.
Festival of Trees Red Deer remains one of the most reliable, heartfelt ways to start the Christmas season in Red Deer. Mark the dates, check the official site for final details as November approaches, and get ready for a room full of trees, happy kids, and a good cause.
Have a favourite memory from a past Festival of Trees? Or tips for first-timers? Share them — Central Alberta families are always looking for the best ways to enjoy this tradition.
