Central Alberta's holiday season gets an early start when the 33rd Red Deer Festival of Trees opens at Westerner Park in Red Deer from November 27 to 29, 2026. The fundraiser, run by the Red Deer Regional Health Foundation, pairs festive displays and family activities with money for hospital equipment and services in the region.
What visitors will find at the Red Deer Festival of Trees 2026
The public activities fill Westerner Park's Neeralta Pavilion, while the Prairie Pavilion hosts the ticketed evening events. According to Westerner Park, guests can browse a large display of decorated Christmas trees, bid in a silent auction, watch local performers on the main stage, enter raffles and shop for sweets, treats and decorations at the Gift & Sweet Shop.
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Candy Cane Lane gives children 12 and under more than 20 games, crafts and activities; organizers say coupons are needed to take part. Adults can buy separate tickets to Festival of Wines & Spirits, which offers samples from Red Deer restaurants and distillers, and to Mistletoe Magic, an evening of dining and dancing for fathers and daughters. A preview dinner and an online silent auction are also part of the program.
Why you should go
- A three-decade tradition: The festival has marked the start of the holidays in Central Alberta for more than 30 years.
- Plenty for children: Candy Cane Lane's games and crafts are designed for kids 12 and under.
- Gift shopping built in: The Gift & Sweet Shop and the silent auction offer decorations, presents and experiences.
- Local flavour: Regional restaurants and distillers appear at Festival of Wines & Spirits, and local talent performs on the main stage.
- Funds stay nearby: Ticket sales, bids, raffles and donations support health care in Central Alberta, and the foundation says the event has raised millions over the years.
What to know before you go
The public festival runs 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, November 27 and Saturday, November 28, then 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, November 29. Westerner Park lists admission at $10 for ages 13 and over, $5 for children aged 4 to 12, $8 for ages 65 and over, and free for ages 3 and under. The brief gives no prices for the evening events, so ask the organizer. Westerner Park is at 4847A 19 Street, Red Deer.
FAQ
When is the Red Deer Festival of Trees 2026?
It runs November 27 to 29, 2026 at Westerner Park in Red Deer, Alberta, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.
How much are tickets?
General admission is $10 for ages 13 and over, $5 for children aged 4 to 12, $8 for ages 65 and over, and free for ages 3 and under. Festival of Wines & Spirits and Mistletoe Magic require separate tickets.
