Glow Edmonton 2026: The Magic Toy Shop Lights Up the EXPO Centre

Edmonton's favourite indoor Christmas light festival is back at the Edmonton EXPO Centre from December 3 to 31, 2026. During the festival, Glow will fill the hall with more than a million lights - and you don’t need to bundle up to enjoy the magic.

This year's story is The Magic Toy Shop. In The Magic Toy Shop, Fox and Bunny have been changed into wind-up toys, and your kids help them reach the Toymaker's workshop through a wander along a path lined with giant toys and light displays.

Glow with grandparents is our thing. It's our go-to tradition in Edmonton, and one of our favourite ways to spend time together over the holidays. We like to go early in the season, before the calendar fills up and things get a little wild. It's a magical way to kick off an evening, and yes, the displays make a great backdrop for the family Christmas card photo.

You’ll spend an hour or two wandering through the lights, racing through the Jolly Kids Zone, playing mini golf and fitting in a quick visit with Santa.

Glow Edmonton 2026 at the Edmonton EXPO Centre: What's New for Families

New for 2026 at Glow Edmonton

  • Jolly Kids Zone: Three times bigger this year, with a giant play park, a Bouncy Moose pit, light-up hopscotch, Christmas movies and a toddler area with ball pits.

  • Glow Putt A-Round Mini Golf: Nine holes set among the displays, with props and photo spots along the way.

  • Santa's Secret Gift Shop: Kids pick out a present on their own, no grown-ups peeking, and it comes back wrapped for the tree. Book a timeslot ahead or try for a walk-up spot. Runs until December 24.

  • The Magic Toy Shop Musical: Fox and Bunny's story, performed live on the Glow Stage.

  • Merry Moose Pub: A spot for the grown-ups, with festive cocktails, specialty drinks and Moose Milk.

Returning Favourites at Glow Edmonton

  • Glow Train: The festival's train ride is back for another year.

  • Visits with Santa: Bring the wish list and get this year's Santa photo.

  • Princess and character meet-and-greets: Say hello in person, then catch the princess performances on stage.

  • Santa's Sleigh VR Ride: A virtual reality trip in Santa's sleigh.

  • Live entertainment: Live music, dance parties and themed events throughout the run.

  • Food vendors: Sweet treats, specialty coffee and seasonal hot chocolate.

  • Merry Makers Market: Gifts and handmade items from local artisans and small businesses.

Sensory-Friendly Morning and Adults-Only Night

Glow Without Limits is a sensory-friendly session on Saturday, December 12, from 9:30 am to noon. Capacity is limited. If this one is on your holiday bucket list, you’re going to want to book it in advance.

Plan a night out without the kids at Glow After Dark on Saturday, November 28, from 6 to 11 pm, a few days before the festival opens to families. Kick off the season and grab your own festive photographs before visiting with the kids.

Plan Your Visit

  • When: December 3 to 31, 2026 (closed December 25)

  • Where: Edmonton EXPO Centre, 7515 118 Avenue

  • Tickets: From $17.99 plus fees and taxes; kids 3 and under are free

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Free Breakfast with Santa & Friends at Sherwood Park Mall on November 21