High River does Christmas the small-town way, and does it well. On one Friday night in December the whole town turns out for the lights to come on in George Lane Park, followed by one of the best Santa Claus parades near Calgary.
In 2026 it’s Friday, December 4, with the theme “Home for the Holidays.”
High River Christmas 2026: Quick Facts
| Date | Friday, December 4, 2026 |
| 5:00 PM | Entertainment begins |
| 5:30 PM | Hot chocolate and Lions hot dogs |
| 6:00 PM | Light Up George Lane Park |
| 6:30 PM | Santa Claus Parade begins |
| Park lights | Nightly 4:30 to 11 PM into January |
| Cost | Free |
| Official site | highriverchristmas.ca |
The Parade
Floats, bands, community groups and Santa roll through downtown High River. Markets, crèches and shops line the route. A route map is posted on the official site.
George Lane Park Lights
Once switched on, the park’s displays stay lit every night from 4:30 to 11 PM until mid-January. View them by car or on foot, and skate on the pop-up rink in the park’s northwest corner once it’s cold enough.
Getting There
High River is about 40 minutes south of Calgary on Highway 2. Roads close downtown for the parade, so arrive by 5:30 PM.
Related: Santa Claus parades near Calgary, Light Up Okotoks.
Part of: Calgary Christmas Guide 2026 › Santa Claus Parades Near Calgary 2026
