8 cozy and festive neighbourhoods to explore around Edmonton this winter
Winter is one of the best times of year in Edmonton, when the trees and rooftops are adorned with twinkling lights, snowfall is still exciting, and early sunsets give way to stunning Northern Lights displays.
Plus, nothing beats a bright winter afternoon when the sun is warm enough to make the outdoors enjoyable for everybody.
So get ready to layer up, find something warm to sip, and get lost in some of Edmonton’s coziest neighbourhoods this winter.
Wîhkwêntôwin
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Located just to the west of downtown is the bustling community of Wîhkwêntôwin. Although it’s a densely populated area with many high-rise residential buildings, the community is surrounded by nature and stunning river valley views. Grab a coffee from one of the many great cafes close by and enjoy a sunny winter walk along the Victoria Promenade!
Crestwood
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A visit to Crestwood is a December tradition for many Edmontonians, thanks to the iconic Candy Cane Lane. Running since 1968 along 148th Street between 92nd and 99th avenues, it features elaborate Christmas light displays, pedestrian-only zones on select days, sleigh rides, and firepits to warm your hands. There aren’t many winter walks in Edmonton as magical as this one.
Alberta Avenue
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With thousands of lights wrapped around the trees along its main streets, Alberta Avenue is a charming, cozy neighbourhood north of the river. Community-run cafes and a variety of international restaurants serve warm, comforting dishes, and awesome winter festivals like Deep Freeze make this the perfect neighbourhood to explore this winter.
Glenora
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Overlooking the river valley, Glenora has a mix of beautiful homes and luxury condos, and walking through this neighbourhood never gets old. From the stunning architecture to the lovely views, the charming lights and nearby coffee shops, it’s a picturesque spot to be right after the snow falls.
Erin Ridge, St. Albert
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Just northwest of Edmonton in St. Albert, the Erin Ridge community is home to Elliot Place. Like Candy Cane Lane, residents of this small drive deck out their homes with thousands of twinkling lights and festive displays. Grab a hot chocolate, take a drive, and enjoy this dazzling holiday display.
Downtown
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Downtown Edmonton is full of charm in the winter, from the twinkling lights at the Alberta Legislature to the historic streets of 104th Street, and skating rinks at Churchill Square and the Ice District plaza. Plus, with the Ice Castles returning this season, downtown is sure to be the place to be this winter.
Summerside
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The homes in Summerside are big, but the Christmas lights are even bigger. Along Summerside Grande Blvd., residents go all out just like they do for Halloween, creating a festive spectacle that makes for a perfect winter walk in this south Edmonton neighbourhood.
Old Strathcona
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South of downtown and over the river, you’ll find the charming streets of Old Strathcona. With historic homes and tree-lined streets, the neighbourhood has a timeless, welcoming feel, with plenty of twinkling lights to warm your spirit. Grab a coffee from one of Whyte Avenue’s great cafes and soak up the cozy winter vibes.