High River Christmas
Santa Claus Parade
Virtual Style
The High River Santa Claus Parade is a tradition for many families to begin their Christmas season. Although we can't come together in person for a magical evening, our 34th annual parade will celebrate the wonderful shared memories of parades past.
be part of the parade!
- past parades
- a team photo & logo
- create model float ... or a real one
- singing or playing a song (2-5 minutes)
- decorate a bike or wagon
- dancing
- driving your farm equipment
- driving your float
- dress up in warm parade-watching gear
the where and when
the fun begins
December 04, 2020
7:00pm
Light Up George Lane Park
The much anticipated tradition of driving or walking through George Lane Park to see the lights dates back to 2013. Organizations, residents and businesses came together to brighten up a dreary post-flood downtown High River with Christmas lights for the Santa Claus Parade.
Inspired by brilliant light displays in other towns across North America, a grant was submitted and received in 2014 for displays, power cords, contractors, etc. Light Up George Lane Park was ignited.
Light Up Ceremony
Starts the Virtual Santa Claus Parade
December 04, 2020
7:00pm
Lights in the park will be on each evening from 4:30pm - 11:30pm until mid-January, 2021
Skating
Each holiday season brings the excitement of seeing favourite light displays along with discovering new ones.
The outdoor pop-up skating rink in the park's NW corner is the newest addition holiday activities bound to become a tradition too - weather co-operating.
The continued support of sponsors and volunteers keeps the park fresh and glowing along with spreading cheer around town.
Light Up High River
If George Lane Park full of lights could create such joy, imagine what the whole of High River dressed up might cause!
That was the spark behind this friendly town-wide contest to determine the favourite display of the season. Everyone is welcome to participate and share their love of Christmas and the holiday season. No decoration or string of lights is too small.
Prizes Surprises
Light Up High River Timeline
Visit With Santa
Santa has a special spot in his heart for High River and rearranged his schedule with the elves to have as much time as possible visiting with children.
Santa At The Museum
The Museum was chosen as a special workshop for Santa. Children can chat with the jolly old fellow while he tinkers away on toys and such. Keep on the watch for elves popping in and out from the North Pole. Schedule by donation for your family to see Santa in his workshop with the Museum of the Highwood.
Saturdays, December 5, 12, 19 : 11:30am - 3:30pm
Sundays, December 6, 13, 20 : 11:30am - 3:30pm
Notes:
- Walk-ups can't be accommodated, 2020 Santa visits by booking only
- Only one family per booking
- Social distancing will be maintained. Hugs, sitting on Santa's knee, etc will not be possible
- Bring your own photo device
Santa In The Park
During Santa's pre-Big-Day test flights, one of his rest stops this year will be in George Lane Park! While the reindeer are snacking, Santa is excited to visit with families and stay warm with smiles. This is a once-in-never-before chance to see Santa's sleigh up close!
To make sure the reindeer aren't scared off by crowds, the elves requested parents schedule a time to visit with Santa in the park using the form below.
* CANCELLED * to help Santa be ready for The Big Day
Thursday, December 10: 5:30pm - 8:30pm
Fridays, December 4, 11: 5:30pm - 8:30pm
Saturdays, December 5, 12: 5:30pm - 8:30pm
Notes:
- Walk-ups cannot be accommodated, visits must be scheduled
- One family per scheduled visit
- Donation of food or new unwrapped toy for the Salvation Army Food Bank very much appreciated
- Social distancing will be maintained. Hugs, sitting on Santa's knee, etc will not be possible
- Bring your own photo device
- Accessible Visits with Santa are available for those who cannot climb the stairs to Santa’s platform. Please contact for details.
Step 1: Schedule Santa In The Park Visit
Markets
Markets have become part of the traditions of the holiday season in High River. Talented crafters and makers offer shoppers a wide range of gifts with the personal touch to choose from.
High River Winter Market
Inclusion Foothills
The annual 2020 Winter Market will be hosted at the Highwood Memorial Centre once again. This is a showcase for incredible local vendors and artisans
Friday, December 4: 12pm - 6pm
Saturday, December 5, 12: 10am - 4pm
Sunday, December 13: 10am - 4pm
The Winter Market may have been cancelled but you can Christmas shop from the comfort of your home. Contact the vendors and artisans through the Winter Market Directory.
One World Market
High River United Church
High River United Church is hosting an ongoing One World Market. Jewells are now available. The book table is expanded. More items will be added over the coming weeks with handmade goods, soaps, Mexican vanilla, etc. Small silent auction as well. This will be much smaller than our usual Christmas market, but much of what you love will be available.
Weekdays until December 21:
9am - 4pm, closed 12pm - 1pm
Notes:
- Please wear a mask
- Come only with those in your own bubble
- Only small groups will be allowed at a time
- Please bring your own bag for purchases. Bags will not be supplied
Christmas Market
High River Agricultural Society
Please join the High River Ag Society at the indoor arena at the rodeo grounds for the annual Christmas Market
Friday, December 5: 11am - 7pm
Saturday, December 6: 11am - 7pm
High River Nativity
Each year the High River Ward of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints hosts a creche display with over 100 nativities.
Due to coronavirus restrictions, the display will not be held in 2020.
Santa Porch Parades
Christmas Cheers!
Santa Claus had to miss a parade, but that doesn't mean High River will! Grab your coats and head out the front door to make a whole lot of noise for the mini Santa Porch Parade. Take in one night, two or all three as it winds it way around town!
Thursday, December 17: Northwest
Friday, December 18: SE and Montrose
Saturday, December 19: SW and downtown
* route maps coming soon *
Volunteer Elves Needed
Santa's elves requested help with the landing and take off his sleigh before and after the Porch Parades. Be part of the VIE (Very Important Elf) ground crew. These shifts are short, but critical to Santa being part of the parade.
