Mark your calendar! The Airdrie Festival of Lights opens on December 1. Admission is by cash donation and the event is accessible and inclusive.
The Airdrie Festival of Lights is an annual tradition that has been lighting up the lives of visitors since 1996. As Western Canada’s largest free, outdoor walk-through Christmas light display, this festival ignites holiday spirit, community involvement, and joyful celebration.
It all started with the vision of local residents committed to putting Airdrie on the map. Now, the festival has grown into a beloved event operated by the Airdrie Festival of Lights Society. The planning for this spectacular event is a year-round endeavor, requiring the dedication and hard work of volunteers who contribute to everything from display maintenance to event coordination.
Michelle Pirzek, Festival of Light Society Coordinator, emphasizes the crucial role of volunteers and sponsors, noting, "It's around 1,500 hours to set up, and we have two weeks to do that. Then, in December, we run 31 nights with 15 or so volunteers per night. We are certainly always looking for volunteers.”
Every year, the festival dazzles its visitors with a variety of events and attractions. One of the standout events is the Light Up the Night celebration, which will run for its second time this year at the start of the festival.
Pirzek explains, "We sing carols, distribute candy canes from the fire department, and we open our season with this community gathering."
The magic doesn’t stop there. Santa Claus himself makes special appearances throughout December, delighting children and families; and this year a special addition returns.
“Santa's reindeer will make a visit on December 21!” shares Pirzek
She adds, “Remember, admission is by cash donation. (We can't accept food bank donations.) We aim to keep it affordable so everyone can enjoy the event. Donations are crucial to keep us running, especially with our operating budget nearing $180,000 due to rising costs.”
There is a charitable aspect to the festival too, as the organizers seek to benefit the community as much as the guests.
“This year, we're hosting our third annual Feel The Glow fundraiser, featuring an after-party with local craft breweries, a winery and a signature cocktail. The event is on Saturday, December 14th, from 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM. Tickets are $15 in advance, $10 at the door, and advance purchases include a complimentary drink."
That is not all. Pirzek continues, “The Emergency Services Night is back on December 13th, alongside our sponsor's Vesta Fun night, featuring kids' activities and prizes. We're hosting two skating parties with Nose Creek Valley Museum. The first is a Victorian skate party on December 14th with free rentals, or you can bring your own skates—just no hockey gear. We'll close the season with a family skate night on December 31st, again offering skate rentals or BYO skates. No hockey gear on this night either, please."
As the holiday season approaches, make a plan to "Get Your Glow On" and become part of this magical tradition. Whether you're volunteering, donating, or simply enjoying the lights and activities, your involvement helps sustain this cherished community event.
For more information on how you can participate, sponsor, donate and more, check out the Airdrie Festival of Lights website. The society is also active on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
