Explore the magic of the winter season at University of Alberta

With the winter and holiday season almost upon us, consider participating in some of the fun seasonal activities happening throughout the U of A community. From toy drives to concerts to snowshoeing, get the season started with a wide selection of activities!

Toy drive for the Campus Food Bank

Nov. 20 to Dec. 7

The Campus Food Bank (CFB) currently serves 256 children. Bring these children a little joy this season by donating one quality toy for one of CFB’s clients. Toy collection will be at the CFB Office, 1-81 SUB, during office hours between Monday, Nov. 20 and Thursday, Dec. 7.

Get a Christmas tree and support the United Way

Starts Dec. 1

In the market for a live Christmas tree for a reasonable price? The U of A Forestry Society Christmas Tree Sale starts Dec. 1 in the Corbett Hall parking lot. Get your tree and support the United Way with 10 per cent of sales going to them. Bring your gently used winter coats to donate to the Coats for Kids and Families collection box.

Share the Cheer with international students

Register by Dec. 8

Need an extra turkey taster? Invite an international student to your holiday celebration to partake in your family’s traditions. University of Alberta International is looking for holiday hosts to participate in Share the Cheer. University of Alberta community members are invited to share their family traditions and provide a sense of community by hosting two international students. Read more ways to get involved as host.

Silent Night Christmas Concert

Dec. 10

Celebrate the season with a second chance to support the Campus Food Bank by attending the Wirth Institute for Austrian and Central European Studies' annual Silent Night Christmas Concert. It returns to Convocation Hall this year, bringing together Alberta Central European community singers, as well as distinguished classical musicians, to warm the spirit and fill the Hall with the sounds of Christmas. Mark your calendars for this heartwarming occasion and enjoy a hot beverage and Austrian Christmas cookies after the concert.

Seating is first-come, first-served and donations (non-perishable food items or cash) to the Campus Food Bank in place of an admission fee are gratefully accepted.

University of Alberta International Winter Party

Dec. 8

In the mood for some cabane à sucre or warming by a fire? Then attend the U of A International Winter Party. All are welcome to join the festivities in the TELUS Centre and enjoy a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, including musical and dance performances, cabane à sucre, fire pit, holiday crafts and more! Be sure to register for this fun event.

Rediscover the Magic of Winter at the University of Alberta Botanic Garden

Dec. 16 to Feb. 11

If you are a fan of winter weather and scenic landscapes then head over to the University of Alberta Botanic Garden to rediscover the magic of winter. Each Saturday and Sunday, enjoy winter activities like kick sledding and horseshoeing, even bring your dog along. Warm up afterwards around the fire and enjoy some hot chocolate and apple cider.

Get moving with sports across campuses

Get yourself or those around you moving with a wide selection of winter and indoor sports and activities through Campus and Community Recreation. Choose from the following and more:

• Use your ONEcard to skate for free at Clare Drake Arena with drop in skating or stick and skate
• Hit groomed ski trails on Augustana Campus and rent cross country skis and snowshoes for free with your ONEcard. Snow pending, you can check out equipment over the winter closure, returning it on Jan. 2.

• Green & Gold Winter Break Camps are back for your kiddos from Jan. 2 to 5
• Sign up for the 3 on 3 Pond Hockey Tournament on Jan. 20
• Learn to Ski with a one-hour lesson at Sunridge Ski Hill on Jan. 27

Enjoy the lights on North Campus

Last but not least, the magic of the season is not complete without a stroll through the Quad on North Campus where lights will remain up for the holiday season.