St. Albert’s Snowflake Festival: A winter holiday tradition in the heart of downtown

For those of you who have lived in St. Albert a long time, you may have known this annual festival as “Light Up St. Albert.” The St. Albert Downtown Business Association ran the festival up until several years ago when the association disbanded. The St. Albert and District Chamber of Commerce stepped in to take up the responsibility of the festival and it renamed it “Snowflake Festival.”

The Chamber of Commerce kept all the traditional and familiar events the residents have come to expect at the festival, but it has added events over the years to keep the festival fresh for everyone. The favourite horse-drawn wagon ride is still making a circuit around the Perron District, Santa still makes his special trip to visit the kids and the downtown stores will be open for those who want a festive atmosphere to do their Christmas shopping. There are over 30 different events to keep people entertained: watch the ice sculpture take shape; spend some time at the petting zoo made possible by Horse Sense Farm; create festive crafts or visit the colouring station; listen to your favourite Christmas carols at Carolling Corner and so much more.

The festival itself is a multi-layered event that tries to appeal to everyone, not just those who celebrate Christmas. All the activities and entertainment are free and can be enjoyed by all ages. Yet, it’s the lighting of the tree that remains the star attraction. As Event Manager Lori Pratt says, “The festival is officially marked by the lighting up of the marvelous tree just outside Community Hall. The city prepares the tree with the Chamber of Commerce’s decorations. The Chamber are always grateful to the City for taking the time to decorate this tree.”

This year, the Snowflake Festival is the “kicking off” event for holiday shopping. The festival helps local businesses get noticed by the public who may not have otherwise realized that these businesses exist. The following night, the Chamber’s Christmas Market starts at St. Albert Place, which will run the next four Saturdays until Christmas.

This annual event is a favourite of St. Albert residents. It’s a way to enjoy the Perron District, a way to defy the winter cold and a way to share the joy this time of year brings. Around 6,000 people attend the festival every year, which shows a sense of community spirit and goodwill to all.