December Holidays & Traditions

December in Alberta can be a truly magical experience. Snow blankets the peaks of the Rocky Mountains, the rolling hills of the prairies and the evergreens of the northern forests. Lights twinkle off the eaves of neighbourhood homes and in windows as families set up their holiday decorations. Comfort can be found snuggled up to a fireplace, in a mug of hot chocolate or simply in the celebratory atmosphere of the holidays to come.

Important Events & Dates

December 25 - Christmas is an annual festival observed primarily on December 25 as a religious and cultural celebration. Christmas Day is celebrated religiously by a majority of Christians, as well as culturally by many non-Christians, and forms an integral part of the holiday season centered around it.

January 1 - New Year's Day, also called simply New Year's or New Year, is observed on January 1. New Year's Day is one of the most celebrated public holidays, often observed with fireworks at the stroke of midnight as the new year starts in each time zone.

AHS strives to create workplaces where people feel safe, healthy and valued. Our workforce, patients and families include individuals from many diverse backgrounds and communities, and recognizing cultural and religious celebrations helps us to become a more inclusive organization. You can check out additional special days recognized in Alberta on Insite.

Staying Connected

Thanks to the many ways of connecting virtually with those we love, it is still possible to share special holiday moments no matter the physical distance.

Use technology

Video calls through platforms like Zoom or Skype can help you stay connected with family and friends. Use Teleparty (formerly Netflix Party) watch TV or movies with your family and friends online.

Talk about traditions

Traditions can be a source of comfort, especially for people who have experienced a big change. You can ask your loved ones what traditions they want to keep when they relocate to Alberta and if they want to start something new. Explore some new Canadian traditions (below) so you can share them with your family when you're reunited.

Practice self-care

The holidays can be full of emotions, so self-care is important when you're trying to cope with being away from loved ones.

Need support? The AHS Employee & Family Assistance Program is a free and confidential service available 24/7 to AHS employees. Learn more by searching EFAP on Insite.

Christmas Activities & Traditions

Popular modern customs include gift giving, church services, completing an Advent calendar, Christmas music and caroling, viewing a Nativity play, an exchange of Christmas cards, a special meal with family and friends, pulling Christmas crackers and the display of various Christmas decorations. Here are some ways you can participate in these customs:

• Attend a church service in your community
• Listen in to a local radio station that plays Christmas music
• Bake gingerbread or shortbread cookies