There’s nothing quite like a prairie winter. Sunrises on the snow-capped Rockies, frost glittering on the grass, and the promise of a much-needed Chinook on the horizon. Even though it’s cold outside, there’s no shortage of exciting Cochrane, Alberta upcoming events to warm up those short winter days and get you in the festive mood as the holidays approach.
1. Find local, handmade gifts for everyone on your list
Support local small businesses and start your holiday shopping in Cochrane, Alberta at the seasonal artisan markets across town. Cochrane’s community of talented makers and artisans will be selling their wares at Christmas markets across town all season long. At this year’s Cochrane MADE Artisan Christmas Market, you’ll find over 50 local vendors showcasing their work. This market takes place on November 18-19, 25-26, and December 2-3 at the Cochrane Lions Event Centre.
There’s even more local talent to explore at The Social Spot Pop-Up Markets. Find something special amongst the wide array of beautiful home decor, apparel, jewellery, and more. Check out the pop-ups on November 18 and 25, and December 2 and 16 at the Frank Wills Memorial Hall.
2. Tap into your creative spirit and make something special
Winter is perfect for spending more time indoors connecting with a creative practice and working on new artistic projects. All season long, Route 22 Artist Collective Gallery runs classes and workshops to nourish your inner artist, no matter what your skill level. Try out the acrylic painting for beginners and intermediate class or join in the Artist Trading Cards Family Event, a wonderful family event for kids ages six and up to connect creatively. Get in the holiday spirits with the Christmas Crafts workshop to create hand-painted tree cookie ornaments, card making, and more! The upcoming events in Cochrane are held at 18-312 Fifth Avenue throughout the week.
3. Gather ingredients for dinners in with friends and family
The Cochrane Farmers’ Market will be hosting its largest market of the season, with two floors of local food and handmade goods to wander through. Grab delicious artisanal bread, handmade cured meats, and seasonal produce perfect for your dinner parties and holiday meals. Get your fill of Saskatoon berry preserves and pies from Solstice Berry Farm or pick up a pack of Fallentimber Meadery’s tasty, crowd-pleasing libations. Drop by for shopping in Cochrane, Alberta on the weekend of December 9-10 at Spray Lake Sawmills Centre.
4. Join in on all things merry and bright
Of course, it just wouldn’t be the holiday season without Cochrane’s Light Up. It’s the best winter street party in Canada (sorry, Carnaval de Québec). Catch local performers including pow-wow dancers, stilt walkers, and hula-hoopers. There’s plenty of hot chocolate, and a highly competitive hotdog competition among our very own local business owners. Everyone is welcome to join in on November 25 in Historic Downtown Cochrane from 4:30 – 7:30 for a night to remember as you kick off the holiday season.
5. Ring in the New Year
Taking place at the SLS Centre from 4-7pm – everything is free to the public! There is a dance party, games, skating, horse rides, fire pits, fire dancers, food and ends of the evening with fireworks at 7pm. Coordinated by the Cochrane Area and Events Society, this group of volunteers knows how to throw a party! Bring the whole family and enjoy the last night of the year together.
Discover more winter fun in Cochrane this season
There’s a range of Cochrane, Alberta upcoming events for the whole family, all season long. Explore our events calendar for more exciting winter activities.
