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Is it just me, or does November always seem to sneak up on us? Halloween is behind us, the colder weather is settling in, and before we know it, Christmas will be here! I'm looking forward to the Christmas markets, holiday shopping, and seeing all the lights go up around Cold Lake.
Before all the Christmas festivities begin, we have Remembrance Day on November 11. Living in Cold Lake, where so many military families call home, it's an important day to take a moment to remember those who have served, those who continue to serve, and the sacrifices made by them and their families.
There's quite a bit happening this month, from local fundraisers and family activities to Christmas markets. One of my favourites is the Cold Lake Craft Show! I love walking around, checking out all the different vendors, and finding a few Christmas gifts along the way.
I've put together November's events with dates, details, and links so you can easily check out what's happening. Hopefully, you'll find something worth adding to your calendar!
Candlelight Vigil for Victims & Survivors of Family Violence: November 1st from 5:30 pm-7:30 pm
Stepping Stones Crisis Society is inviting the community to come together for a meaningful evening of remembrance and support. Taking place at their new building, the evening will include a Walk of Remembrance, a light meal, and a Candlelight Vigil to honour those whose lives have been impacted by family violence. It's an opportunity to stand alongside survivors, remember those we've lost, and show that our community cares.
The Sunday Exhale at Kempe Fitness Cold Lake: November 1st, 15th, 22nd and 29th
Need a little time to unwind before another busy week? Ashley Gingras is offering The Sunday Exhale, a six-week Yin Yoga series held on Sunday evenings by candlelight. These sessions focus on gentle movement, breathing, and longer-held stretches, giving you a chance to slow down and relax.
Tom Cochrane & Amanda Marshall (white hot, dark horse): November 6 at 7:30 pm
Live musical performance by iconic Canadian artists Tom Cochrane and Amanda Marshall at the Imperial Oil Place. Buy tickets online on Ticketmaster.
Hard Deck Smokehouse Trivia: Thursday November 5 at 7:00 pm-9:00 pm.
Test your knowledge across a wide range of topics of general knowledge trivia night.
Bonnyville Craft Show: November 7th from 10:00 am-4:00 pm
Did you know Bonnyville's Christmas Craft Show has been a local tradition since the 1970s? What started as a small gathering of 20 vendors has grown into a favorite holiday tradition in the community. It's a great opportunity to browse handmade crafts, discover unique Christmas gifts, and support local crafters. Whether you're shopping for someone special or just looking to get into the Christmas spirit, it's worth checking out at the Bonnyville Centennial Centre.
Family Game Night: November 10 at 6:00 pm
Looking for something fun to do with the family at Cold Lake Distract and FCSS. Family Game Night is a great way to spend some quality time together! Enjoy a variety of board games, from old favorites to newer ones, along with snacks and drinks to keep everyone going. A fun way to spend an evening together and maybe discover a new family favorite! Registration required.
Remembrance Day Ceremony: November 11th (Spectators to be seated at 10:30 am)
The Cold Lake Remembrance Day Ceremony will take place at the Cold Lake Energy Centre, bringing our community together to honor the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our country. As a military community, Remembrance Day holds a special meaning here in Cold Lake. It's an opportunity for us to show our gratitude and remember the sacrifices made by our veterans, military members, and their families.
That Bites: Thursday November 12 from 1:00 pm-3:00 pm (Ages 13-18)
Learning to cook is an important life skill, and That Bites! is helping youth get comfortable in the kitchen! This hands-on program teaches participants how to prepare simple, healthy meals without spending a fortune. From kitchen safety to meal preparation and enjoying food together, it's a great opportunity for youth to build skills they'll use as they become more independent. Registration deadline: November 6, 2026.
The Great Cold Lake Turkey Race: November 12th
Ruffles the Turkey is back for another year, and he's got a big goal ahead of him! The Great Cold Lake Turkey Race kicks off November 12, with hopes of collecting 400 turkeys for the Cold Lake Food Bank. This annual campaign helps provide holiday meals to families in our community who could use a little extra support during the Christmas season. It's always wonderful to see our community come together for initiatives like this. Every contribution helps bring Ruffles closer to that 400-turkey goal!
Bright Beginnings Development Fair: Friday November 13 (11:30 AM-5:30 PM)
Cold Lake Family Connections is bringing parents, caregivers, and professionals together for an event focused on supporting children with neurodiverse abilities and developmental needs. Whether you have questions about your child's development, are looking for helpful resources, or simply want to connect with other parents, this event is a great opportunity to learn and share experiences. You'll have the chance to speak with professionals, explore parenting tools, and discover resources available to support you and your family.
90’s Trivia Night: Thursday November 19 at 7:00 pm
Think you know your '90s trivia? From the music and movies to the TV shows we all grew up watching, it's time to see how much you actually remember! The Hard Deck Smokehouse & Rec Room is hosting a '90s Trivia Night on November 19. Grab a few friends, make a night of it, and put those '90s memories to the test!
Christmas Pop Event: November 25 from 4:00 pm-8:00pm
Oasis Wellness & Spa is getting into the Christmas spirit with their Christmas Pop-Up Event! Stop by on November 25 for a little holiday shopping, enjoy some drinks and snacks, and enter for a chance to win a gift basket. A nice way to spend some time checking out what this local business has to offer while getting a head start on the Christmas season!
Christmas Gnomes Adult Cookie Class: November 25th (6:30 pm-8:30 pm)
How cute are Christmas gnome cookies?! Karen's Cookie Nook is hosting an adult cookie decorating class and you’ll learn step by step how to decorate your own Christmas gnome cookies using royal icing. No experience needed, and everything is provided, including the cookies, icing, and decorating supplies. Plus, you get to take your finished cookies home! A fun way to spend an evening getting creative and enjoying a little Christmas baking without having to do the baking yourself! ($50/person)
Santa Claus Parade (City of Cold Lake): November 27th at 6:00 PM
One of my favourite ways to kick off the Christmas season in Cold Lake is the Santa Claus Parade! Santa will be making his way through downtown Cold Lake, along with festive floats from local businesses, organizations, and community groups. And the fun doesn't end when the parade is over! Deadline to register your float is November 26th!
Head over to the Cold Lake Energy Centre for Santa's Workshop, where the kids can take pictures with Santa, get help writing their Christmas letters, and even meet the Grinch! There will also be a chance to vote for your favorite parade float on the City's Facebook page, with awards for businesses, non-profit organizations, and the Mayor's Choice.
The Festival of Peace Gala (Online Auction): November 28th to 30th
Stepping Stones Crisis Society is bringing back its Festival of Peace online auction this November! What was once a gala event is now a four-day Facebook auction, giving everyone a chance to participate from home while supporting the important work Stepping Stones does in our community. From November 24–27, you can browse and bid on auction items, with the final day highlighting items from local artists. A great opportunity to support a local organization and maybe find something special along the way!
The Festival of Peace Gala Winter Glow: November 28th starts at 5:30 pm
Stepping Stones Crisis Society is hosting its annual Festival of Peace, and this year's theme is Winter Glow, inspired by the beauty of the northern lights.
The evening brings the community together to celebrate hope, strength, and brighter futures while supporting the important work Stepping Stones does for women, children, and families experiencing violence and crisis.
Cold Lake Craft Show: November 28th (10:00 am to 4:00 pm)
Looking to get some Christmas shopping done while supporting local? The Cold Lake Craft Show is happening on November 28, bringing together a variety of talented artisans, crafters, and home-based businesses. From handmade creations and antiques to unique gifts you might not find in stores, there's plenty to browse. It's a great opportunity to discover local talent and check a few names off your Christmas shopping list!
Sparkle in the Park: November 29th December 5th
One of Cold Lake's favorite Christmas traditions is back! Sparkle in the Park returns to the MD Campground with beautiful holiday light displays for the whole family to enjoy! By donation in support of Hearts for Healthcare and the Cold Lake Food Bank.
Walk-Through: November 29 at 5 PM
Drive-Through: November 30 – December 5 | 5–9 PM
Cold Lake FCSS: November Events
Did you know Cold Lake FCSS offers a variety of programs and activities throughout the month? Whether you're looking for something to do with the kids, interested in a workshop, or wanting to connect with others in the community, there's quite a bit to choose from this November. Rather than listing every program individually, I've included a link to their November calendar so you can browse what's available and find something that interests you.
A Little More Than Just Events
One thing I always appreciate about living in the Lakeland is how much our community has going on, even as the colder months settle in.
Whether it's supporting a local fundraiser, checking out a Christmas market, or spending an evening out with family and friends, there are so many ways to get involved.
I hope this month's roundup helps you discover something you might not have known was happening!
And if there's an event I've missed, feel free to send it my way. I love being able to share what's happening around our community.
Until December, enjoy the month ahead!
Monira Kamis Arabi
780-812-1311
monirakamisarabi@hotmail.com
