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COVER
Thank you
Photography by Erin Walker
Editor's Note
How can it be December already? Where has 2024 gone?
We went from enjoying the fall foliage to a winter wonderland in the blink of an eye. It’s exactly this quick passing of time that makes me want to hang on to December with all my might; to slow down the remaining days of the year, and really focus on what matters.
December is a festive month for many cultures and people of all beliefs. However you approach the “holiday season”—going full tilt to kids’ concerts, work parties, or get-togethers with friends and family, how you celebrate is a personal choice. Cooking favourite family recipes, enjoying a special bottle of wine, wearing a fancy outfit to a formal party, it doesn’t matter, as long as it matters to you.
Whatever you do or however you celebrate or commemorate special days in this 12th month, I hope you do it with intention and know that no matter where you are, kindness is the most precious gift of all—and not only being kind to others, but being kind to yourself, too. It doesn’t even need to be wrapped in anything or topped with a bow. It doesn’t need to be preempted with a card or special occasion. It can simply just be given.
Thank you for being with us this past year. All of us at Modern Luxuria appreciate your support and the time you take to read our stories. It means the world to us.
Here’s to a wonderful, kind and joy-filled year ahead…and perhaps one that moves at a much slower pace.
– Twyla
Contributors
Erin Walker is a professional food photographer, recipe developer and food stylist, with clients in Edmonton and across North America. When she’s not spending time behind the lens or in the kitchen, you can find her reading, gardening and enjoying everyday life with her husband and her two busy boys.
Francesca Roznicki is a creative entrepreneur and busy mom of two boys. Always passionate about interior design, she has worked exclusively within the interior design and home building industry in Edmonton. When she isn't busy shuffling kids to sports practice and writing for her clients, she's scouring the local real estate listings and diving into decor magazines with a piping hot Americano.
Fontaine Lewis is a portrait and headshot photographer with a focus on blending fine art and commercial portraiture. His work has attracted a diverse clientele from around the world including professional athletes, performers, and business owners.
Brandy Belitsky is a mom, wife, graphic designer, photographer, writer, and singer. Her passion for art and design has kept her busy in both the working world and in play. If she's not working, she's spending time with her family, creating something, singing, or cooking something up in the kitchen.
Myah Juneau is an Edmonton-based writer and communications and marketing specialist with a passion for storytelling and good journalism. Aside from writing, Myah enjoys drawing, painting, and playing hockey.
Marcia J. Hamm is a lover of all things wine, but is especially passionate about Italy's native grape varieties. She is a WSET diploma holder, an Italian Wine Scholar and one of only 15 Italian Wine Experts In the world through the Vinitaly international Academy (VIA). Marcia also loves to sing, ride her bicycle, have dinner parties and relax on the patio.
Publisher's Note
Stepping into holiday magic 10
Profile
Building dreams with Nicholas Carels 12
Trends
Must-have trends in festive fashion and accessories 18
Cuisine
Atlas Steak + Fish returns: Elevate your dining experience 30
Drinks
Discovering hidden gems in the world of champagne 38
Arts & Culture
Emilio De Mercato: From Alberta to Carnegie Hall 42
Events
Festive events to celebrate the season in Edmonton 68
Publisher's Note
The holiday season always feels a little like stepping into a snow globe—a magical place filled with nostalgia and special memories. As a child, I experienced the wonder of the Singing Christmas Tree with my family, and it quickly became one of my most cherished moments. I can still picture the glittering lights, hear the joyful harmonies and feel the excitement of being surrounded by others sharing in the festive spirit. It was a moment that encapsulated everything I loved about the holidays: togetherness, joy and the beauty of tradition.
“Traditions old and new remind us that the magic of the holidays lies in togetherness, joy, and the beauty of shared memories.”
- Melody Beattie
This year, I was thrilled to hear that the Singing Christmas Tree has returned, bringing with it a sense of nostalgia and the promise of new memories for families across our city. It's these traditions, both old and new, that make the holidays so special.
Edmonton comes alive during this season with festive events and celebrations that remind us of the beauty of our community. From dazzling light displays to holiday markets and winter festivals, there’s so much to experience. Whether it’s skating under the stars, discovering local treasures at a market, or simply cozying up with loved ones at home, the magic of the holidays is everywhere.
As we step into this season of celebration, I hope you take a moment to embrace the traditions that bring you joy and create new memories that will last a lifetime. Here’s to a holiday season filled with warmth, wonder and community.
– Elsa
PHOTO BY TATIYANA SEMENOVA
It’s Always About the People
Nicholas Carels and the story of Streetside Developments
Nicholas Carels grew up on a family farm in southern Manitoba and began his career with Pepsi as a merchandiser at age 15. He progressed through various roles, including delivery driver and sales representative, before joining a management training program in Calgary. However, he later reevaluated his career path and moved on to managing a restaurant at Fairmont Lake Louise, where he discovered a passion for real estate.
After moving to Lethbridge and working in the hotel industry, he joined Qualico (Streetside Developments’ parent company) in 2008 as an assistant sales and marketing manager. Over 16 years, he advanced to vice president of Streetside Developments, driven by teamwork and a love for real estate. We met with Carels to discuss the changing trends of home building, the significance of the right team, and the three most important pieces to keep in mind when working in real estate.
WORDS BY FRANCESCA ROZNICKI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY FONTAINE LEWIS
Tell us more about Streetside Developments and what makes them a unique company?
We've brought ourselves from being a midsized home builder to the biggest builder in Edmonton over the last few years. Our team has this never-ending hunger to create the next new home that the market needs, and for us, there are three important pieces we're always balancing: livability, desirability, and affordability.
We need to have all three to be successful. The livability part is creating a house to fit the family or the individual. Considering fundamentals like number of bedrooms and bathrooms, as well as parking. The desirability part means we want people to walk into the home and say, “I love this!” The third part (it may be the most boring part, but it's also the most important) is that they have to be able to afford it.
We all love to tour these million-dollar lottery homes and they’re great eye candy. But for the great majority of people, budget's a real thing and we have to be sure we're building homes that people can afford and love. We often start with the budget and then ask ourselves, “How do we create a home that hits this price point
while still meeting their needs and giving them something they will be very proud to call their own?”
Can you speak to the sort of trends you're seeing in multi-family buildings?
When I started in Edmonton, we were a very practical market, both with single or multi-family housing. It was all price per square foot, or “I want the biggest thing I can afford.”
However, when you walk into a 2,000-square-foot house with only two people living there, you can’t help but wonder if that space is being properly utilized or if this is just extra space that requires more cleaning, heating and taxes. One of the trends we've seen in multi-family housing is that buyers are more focused on getting something unique and nicely finished, instead of getting the biggest space possible.
Our buyers want to travel and experience life outside of their homes too. They’ve travelled the world and they want to bring back trends and designs that they’ve seen abroad. This has led us to focusing on how spaces function and how they feel, instead of just how large we can go.
How can one capture a sense of luxury in a multi-family home type of house?
I’ll refer back to the balance of the three important points and say luxury is about mixing desirability with affordability. When it comes to desirability, we generally focus on the finishes. We have our interior design centre, Design Q, and they provide the opportunity to personalize and create that luxury component of our homes.
The perfect home doesn’t need to be a 3,000-square-foot mansion. Maybe it's an 1,100-square-foot condo that we dress up to the nines with Venetian plaster walls and ceiling medallions, or an elaborate fireplace. We’ve seen clients deck out garages to rival an auto body shop or create a spa-like ensuite you’d see in a 5-star hotel. This is where our homeowners can let their imaginations run wild. You don’t have to spend a million dollars for a home to feel luxurious; it's through that experience of the communities and the space that allows our home buyers to focus the luxury where they see fit. All of this comes while being able to afford their home and their lifestyle. That's luxury.
What is your favourite Streetside showhome that you think our readers should check out in person?
My current favourite is our Hayes model in Uplands of Riverview. I’m a little more traditional
and like the modern farmhouse style. The elevations throughout the community and the home itself is a very unique project for us. It is a 1,600-square-foot, detached home, but it is built on a multi-family lot, so it is a single-family home that is also a condo. It's a very special space.
What has been the best part about your role at Streetside?
The gift of Streetside is the talented people I have been lucky enough to have around me, both within Streetside itself and then our parent company, Qualico. We use all that strength and all that history to be able to create the perfect home for our clients.
The home building business is actually a very simple thing. It’s land, money, and great people. Qualico is the biggest landowner in our city and so a big part of my job is often buying land. We've got a 74-year-old company behind us, giving us the financial strength and flexibility to go make it happen. But the great people—that's the most important part of my job.
We have the right folks on the team doing great things and our team's better than ever. I have a lot of fun working with all these people and they are a talented bunch. That is what I'm most proud of: the team that we've put together here. That's been the best part, not anything I've done. It's people. It’s always about the people.
Fashion Trends for December
Celebrating style and seasonality
PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
December is the month of festivities, layering, and luxury. Trend ideas to inspire both men and women as they dress for the holiday season and step into winter with style.
Gravity Pope Robyn Slip-on Boot www.gravitypope.com
Loeffler Randall Rayne Metallic Evening Bag www.simons.ca
www.shopshadesofgrey.com
Line + Dot Cache Mini Dress
www.simons.ca
Y.A.S. Embossed Tiered Chiffon Dress
Ralph Lauren Purple Label
Bowtie
www.simons.ca
www.simons.ca
www.simons.ca
Le31
Genuine Leather Geo Topstitch Gloves
Blick
Genuine Leather Tie
Le31
Cable-knit Turtleneck Sweater
Ralph Lauren Purple Label
Tartan Velvet Sport Jacket
Gear up for the slopes with three of Edmonton’s top ski shops
WORDS BY BRANDY BELITSKY PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
Skier’s Sport Shop
Skier’s Sport Shop has been a cornerstone for Edmonton’s ski enthusiasts for decades. Founded in 1963 by George and Doreen McAvoy, Skier’s Sport Shop was one of the first ski shops in Edmonton. The walls are lined with carefully selected gear, from high-performance skis to stylish apparel, but it’s the staff who make the difference—they live and breathe the sport. No matter if you're new to skiing or a seasoned pro, their personalized service guarantees you'll be equipped for the perfect run.
WWW.SKIERSSPORTSHOP.COM
Boardom
Boardom isn’t your average gear shop—it’s more like a clubhouse for people who live for the thrill of pavement and snow. Open since 1994, Boardom is run by a tight-knit crew of snowboarding and skateboarding enthusiasts who treat every visitor like family. The shop is stacked with high-quality gear including snowboards, skateboards, and all the accessories you could dream of. Whether you’re gearing up for a new season or looking to refine your setup, the team at Boardom knows their stuff and loves to share it.
WWW.BOARDOM.NET
Fritz Ski Haus
Fritz Ski Haus is a local hidden gem that is filled to the brim with every essential a skier could need. Since 1974, this specialty shop has been all about passion, precision, and personalized service. Founded by Fritz, a former ski racer, the shop is known for its large ski boot selection. They also provide expert boot-fitting services, offering custom insoles and boot stretching to ensure a comfortable ride. With their demo program, you can hit the slopes before committing, and their Wintersteiger-equipped service centre will keep all of your gear slope-ready.
WWW.FRITZSKIHAUS.COM
When Life Calls for Celebration!
Atlas Steak + Fish delivers an exquisite experience
WORDS BY TWYLA CAMPBELL PHOTOGRAPHY ERIN WALKER
After a four-year hiatus, the doors to Atlas Steak + Fish in the ICE District have reopened. As an avid seeker of a quality steakhouse experience, I am overjoyed at the news.
Atlas is both a traditional and modern steakhouse. Velvet-covered, crescent-shaped booths, leather banquettes and tableside preparations of Caesar salad and peppercorn sauce hearken to a bygone era, while warm light shimmering off of mirrored chandeliers and fine Riedel stemware deliver an ultra-lux and modern vibe. The details here are part and parcel of an indulgent experience, one that management and staff maintain and deliver with a side of exemplary service.
For those who prefer a classic steakhouse experience, dinner might start with an expertly crafted martini alongside a prawn cocktail or freshly shucked oysters, but what follows can go a variety of ways: halibut and lobster risotto, smoked chicken breast or a flavourful steak cooked to perfection on the Josper grill. If you’re searching for one of the few restaurants in the city that offers prime rib, you’ll find it here, served with potato purée, horseradish, yorkshire pudding and creamed spinach.
Or maybe this is the night to dive into the seafood tower; an assortment of lobster, scallops, fresh oysters, prawns, togarashi seared kampachi, and crab salad in endive boats. King crab and Champagne, why not? There is no time like now to celebrate (anything). These are the moments that matter.
Getting together at a restaurant to celebrate holiday meals in December is becoming more popular for people eschewing the hectic preparations that typically go into having a big dinner at home. A night out at a special restaurant leaves all the fuss and frenzy to qualified staff ready and able to take care of everything, from the table setting to flambéing the Baked Alaska. Plus, you get to wear that holiday outfit more than once.
Perhaps a new holiday tradition starts at Atlas Steak + Fish: dinner for eight in the semi-private round room, or up to 30 seated guests in the fully private, long room. Located inside the Grand Villa Casino adjacent to Rogers Place, this Atlas location requires guests to be 18 years and over.
Atlas Steak + Fish in the ICE District is located at 10204 - 104 Avenue NW, Edmonton.
WWW.ATLASSTEAKANDFISH.COM
The Crème de la Crème of Bubbles
Three Champagnes worth celebrating
PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
WORDS BY MARCIA J. HAMM
Many people refer to all sparkling wine as “Champagne.” While this is not true, the moniker pays homage to the popularity and cult following of this luxurious, very special and often costly drink made in the Champagne region of France. All Champagne is typically a blend of different wines, grape varieties and vintages with a final blend that will create the style of the house. This is known as the cuvée.
From reasons that span everyday happenings to celebrating special occasions, many people will be opening a bottle of bubbly this holiday season. Instead of reaching for a bottle from the big houses like Veuve Clicquot, Moet Chandon and Bollinger (that tend to get all the attention during the holiday season), check out some other high-quality but not-so-famous Champagnes. Perhaps you’ll discover a new favourite to grace your table this month.
De Venoge, in the town of Épernay, has origins dating back to the 15th century, with a claim to fame of having one of the richest wine libraries in Champagne, composing nearly 20,000 vintage bottles. The eye-catching, elegant and unique bottle shape of the Princes’ line makes it stand out on both home and retail shelves. These wines are made from a careful selection of grapes from the best vintages, so whether it’s blanc de blanc, rosé, or the prestigious Louis XV, any choice is a fine choice. Find the Princes Blanc de Noirs at the Canadian Liquor Store (#101, 18003 - 105 Avenue, Edmonton).
Vilmart and Cie is a fifth generation, family-owned and -operated Champagne house. Located in Rilly-la-Montagne, they only produce wines from grapes grown in Premier Cru vineyards. The vines here range from 35-60 years of age. Ageing for all the wines that will make up the cuvée takes place in wood—a unique technique that gives their Champagne the character of body, fruit, roundness, and subtlety. Their Grand Cellier Brut Premier Cru is clean, citrusy and perfectly balanced—a testament to their style and quality, and the reason why this house is universally recognized. Head over to Color de Vino (9606 Whyte Avenue, Edmonton) for this bottle.
Pol Roger might not be a small house, but it’s certainly not as well known as some of the aforementioned, bigger establishments. This year (2024) Pol Roger celebrates the 175th anniversary of its first bottle sold in 1849.The Champagnes of Pol Roger became a favourite of both the Royal Family and Winston Churchill, giving it one of the most flattering reputations amongst the leading brands. Winston Churchill’s favourite drink was undoubtedly Champagne, as he was known to enjoy a bottle or two along with his ever-present cigar. The Pol Roger Prestige Cuvée was created in homage to Churchill keeping in mind the qualities he enjoyed most in his Champagne: full-bodied character, maturity and robustness. “My tastes are simple; I am easily satisfied with the best,” he is famously known to have said. The cuvée is only made in the best vintages, with the best grapes, and aged longer than their other blends. When the celebration calls for something really special, pick up a bottle of this world-famous cuvée at Baseline Wine and Spirits (#172, 11 Athabascan Avenue, Sherwood Park).
Emilio De Mercato The transformative power of music
WORDS BY MYAH JUNEAU PHOTOGRAPHY BY FONATINE LEWIS
Emilio De Mercato’s admiration for music and the eventual composing of it began as a young boy growing up in Varese, Italy. Watching his mother move her struggling plants near the piano to nurse them back to life with music is the seed that sprouted an unwavering belief that music has a transformative power. He came to believe that not only is music an outlet for love, sadness and personal expression, but it also has the ability to heal.
Being introduced to the piano at a young age by his mother was the spark that quickly fueled a lifelong passion. For De Mercato, music is more than the high or low frequencies you hear, more than the notes you play, and the lyrics you sing; rather, it’s a universal language that unites people
from across the globe, centuries apart, rooted in intense emotion.
“All my life is music,” he says; an understatement when it comes to his devotion to classical music, in particular. After earning a master’s degree in piano and composition in Italy and moving to Canada in 2012, De Mercato founded the Alberta Symphony Orchestra along with other associations including the Art of Sounds Music Association. Serving as the music director for the Alberta Symphony Orchestra is a point of pride, but as a lifelong musician himself, De Mercato also takes pride in his history of employing and fairly compensating other musicians. He hopes this will contribute to keeping classical music alive in Alberta.
The impact of De Mercato’s dedication to classical music is visible through his experience teaching at post-secondary continued education programs across the province. He has also offered private lessons for budding pianists in his own studio in Edmonton. Having taught classes at universities in Calgary and Edmonton, De Mercato founded the Alberta Symphony Orchestra with aspirations of introducing and championing classical music to urban and rural communities throughout Alberta He hopes to foster the same musical healing his mother’s plants experienced and encourage new fans of classical pianists from past and present times.
e x c l u s i v e l y b r o u g h t t o y o u b y j o y h a l l i n c
A v a i l a b l e a t : z y n c a , b s w l i q u o r c o m , a n d
s h e r b r o o k e l i q u o r c o m V i s i t u s a t w w w j o y h a l l c a a n d
@ j o y h a l l i n c .
P l e a s e s i p r e s p o n s i b l y
Hyperbaric Health & Spa
From Poland to Canada, introducing a holistic approach to healing WORDS BY MYAH JUNEAU
Paulina Godinez never would have bet on becoming involved in holistic medicine, let alone being so directly and deeply embedded in a business of this nature. While working towards a business administration degree and juggling two jobs, she was unsure where her education would take her. Now, she works full-time educating visitors, maintaining equipment and taking care of administrative duties at Hyperbaric Health & Spa, a business founded by her father-in-law, Ed Panas.
Originally from Poland, Panas founded the spa in light of his personal experience as a visitor of oxygen chambers in Europe. Joint pain, along with other medical concerns, prompted him to search for alternative medicine, ultimately leading him to open a wellness spa of his own after moving to Edmonton.
Panas happily introduced Godinez to the family business, where she quickly assisted him in his pursuit of introducing Canadians to new approaches to physical healing.
During the pandemic, Panas was in line for delayed surgeries involving his hip and knees when he received an atypical call from his doctor. Godinez recounts the story, reciting the doctor's words: “I don't know what you're doing, but you don't really qualify for the surgery anymore.” Panas’ passion and belief in his oxygen spa therapy stems from first-hand experience with life-altering results, which he credits to the high oxygen level in his cells from continued use of the chambers.
Holistic approaches to physical healing, while mostly unconventional in Canada, are more common outside of North America. “Oxygen treatment is routine in other countries,” says Godinez, adding that some countries, including Poland, don't require visitors to sign health waivers, a striking contrast between Canadian norms.
Treatment at Hyperbaric Health & Spa looks different for everyone. Oxygen chambers are among other holistic approaches to treating physical and psychological circumstances. Red-light therapy, a salt chamber, and oxygen therapy are offered in one location within the facility.
Godinez typically recommends at least four visits within two weeks as a reasonable and effective introduction to the oxygen chambers, allowing the visitor to build a foundation for healing the body. “The reason is that you want to fully saturate your body and get it to a point where it relaxes,” she adds.
The chambers are spacious, comfortable and well-maintained, helping to dilute claustrophobic sensations. They are equipped with a bathroom and even a bookable suite for guests wishing to have a private room. Godinez also remarked on visitors remotely working from within the chambers.
“Once you’re through the door, it just becomes amazing,” Godinez says about exploring unconventional treatments for physical and mental health. Electric cryotherapy, designed to boost overall well-being by targeting the circulatory system, is set to be a future installation at the spa.
Godinez also recognizes the importance of consulting with a doctor throughout the healing process and encourages visitors to journal throughout their journey to keep track of the various changes in their minds and bodies.
Hyperbaric Health & Spa is located at 10328 - 73 Avenue, NW, Edmonton.
Sunlit
Spaces and New Beginnings
The remarkable rebirth of a River Valley retreat
WORDS BY FRANCESCA ROZNICKI PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
Having undergone extensive renovations, the house at 15309 Rio Terrace Drive shares a tale of transformation and rebirth. This grand property offers a balance of modern luxury with comforting warmth and spectacular views of the city’s River Valley. Stylish contemporary design with timeless appeal is a beautiful combination.
The creamy stucco with stone accents and black metal roofing creates a stately but charming exterior. A multi-level stone pathway leads to a double glass-paned door that opens to the home's spacious foyer. A floating staircase of wood and metal, set behind a clear glass wall is an irrefutable sign of the detailed craftsmanship that characterizes this property. The main living space and dining area harness the natural light with large windows and doors, creating an open space for gathering and visiting.
The kitchen, a sophisticated galley-style space, is equipped with top-range Thermador appliances. Easy access from this space to a large deck makes it ideal for gatherings. The black-framed windows throughout the home serve as stylish gateways to the outer world, perfectly framing the impressive River Valley views visible from nearly every room.
The property has four bedrooms, as well as a large bonus space above the garage that offers flexibility ready to adapt to your needs, whether as a playroom, studio, or retreat. The third-floor office, complete with bathroom and fireplace, provides an inspiring space for productivity with more awe-inspiring views.
For those who value leisure, the walk-out basement offers several amenities including a spacious gym for your workout routine, and an infrared sauna for a soothing escape. Creatives will delight in the woodshop, complete with advanced ventilation systems and abundant storage, providing the perfect environment for creativity to thrive.
The garage, with a drive-through capability, is a practical wonder, ensuring easy access to the backyard and beyond. The south-facing space is designed for relaxation and entertainment, with unobstructed views of the valley, a tranquil waterfall feature, and a greenhouse for the gardening enthusiast.
This stately residence transcends the notion of a mere living space—it serves as a canvas for creating lasting memories and embracing a life of well-being. Within these walls, a blend of comfort and elegance awaits, inviting you to embark on the next remarkable chapter of your journey.
The home at 15309 Rio Terrace Drive is currently listed for sale with Geordie Morison, of Maxwell Progressive.
A Night to Remember
Celebrating 100 years of art and culture at the AGA’s Century Ball and Art Party.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY FONTAINE LEWIS
The Art Gallery of Alberta’s Century Ball and Art Party brought together elegance, creativity, and community for a night to remember. Guests enjoyed exquisite food, captivating performances and a lively afterparty filled with music and dancing. The event honoured a century of artistic excellence while celebrating the vibrant local art scene. Relive the magic through these stunning moments captured from the night.
Lighting Up December
Five must-attend holiday events in YEG
WORDS BY BRANDY BELITSKY PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
A Christmas Carol
November 23 - December 24 - Citadel Theatre
Experience the timeless magic of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol at the Citadel Theatre. This beloved production combines stunning visuals, live music, and heartfelt performances to bring Scrooge’s journey of redemption to life. Each year, the Citadel reimagines the story with fresh elements while keeping the essence of holiday tradition intact.
WWW.CITADELTHEATRE.COM/SHOWS/24-25-CAROL/
WWW.YEGXMASMARKET.COM
Glow
December 4 - 31 - Edmonton Expo Centre
Celebrate the season with Glow, Edmonton’s largest indoor holiday festival. Marvel at breathtaking light displays, wander through interactive exhibits, and snap unforgettable photos under sparkling installations. Perfect for families, couples, or friends, Glow offers something for everyone!
WWW.GLOWYEG.CAWW.YEGCANDYCANELANE.COM
Luminaria
December 13 - 29 - University of Alberta Botanic Garden
Immerse yourself in the quiet beauty of Luminaria, where thousands of candles illuminate the snow-covered paths of the University of Alberta Botanic Gardens. This serene event is ideal for slowing down and reflecting during the busy holiday season. Visitors can enjoy fire pits, storytelling, and the gentle glow of lantern-lit gardens. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or a peaceful family outing, Luminaria offers an unforgettable experience.
Christmas Eve Dinner at The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald
December 24 - Fairmont Hotel Macdonald
Indulge in a luxurious Christmas Eve Dinner at the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald, a landmark of elegance in Edmonton. With a carefully crafted gourmet menu, this experience combines culinary artistry with the warmth of holiday traditions. This historic setting, dressed up in seasonal decor, creates a magical atmosphere for an exquisite evening with loved ones. Let the Fairmont take care of the details while you relax and enjoy the spirit of the season.
Ring in 2025 with a vibrant celebration at Churchill Square. New Year’s Eve Downtown offers free family-friendly activities, including live music, roaming performers, and holiday-themed fun. Skate rentals are available for those who want to enjoy the plaza’s ice rink. The highlight of the evening is undoubtedly the fireworks displays—one at 9 p.m. for early celebrations and another at midnight for the more traditional revellers.
