Discover some events happening on campus and around the city sharing the holiday spirit.

The holidays can feel lonely, especially for international students who aren’t spending them with family, but the campus and city have some great events to spread festivity and cheer for all!

Holiday Hangout for USask Students and their families 

Date: December 27 to December 30

Time: 2 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Location: GSA Commons

The Graduate Student’s Association, Student Wellness Centre and International Student and Study Abroad Centre are hosting a hangout for those who may find themselves celebrating alone during the holidays.

There will be toys for kids, snacks, games, opportunities to meet new friends and a shared dinner. 

Victorian Christmas: In the Classroom and the Home(Virtual)

Explore a virtual exhibit of the Diefenbaker Canada Centre,  where you can experience a Victorian Christmas from the comfort of your home.

Although it is usually hosted at the Little Stone Schoolhouse at the USask campus, this year’s event is online. You can learn about Victorian Christmas traditions and how Victorian children celebrated Christmas at school and with their families!

It is a great event to learn more about history and to pass the time. 

Jingle Bell Express

Date: Weekends (except December 28 and December 28)

Time: 10:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m

Saskatoon Jingle Bell Express Route will be available on weekends, providing a free and convenient way to travel to major malls in the city, such as Midtown, Centre Mall, Confederation Mall, Lawson Heights, and Market Mall.

This is the perfect opportunity to finish your Christmas shopping and enjoy the festive displays at the malls. 

Events outside campus

BHP Enchanted Forest (Tickets Required)

Date:  Now until January 5

Time: 5:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Location: Forestry Farm Park and Zoo

The BHP Enchanted Forest features some of the brightest light displays, with intricate designs and characters, making it a perfect Christmas show!

It’s a perfect time to bond with friends and family while taking a peaceful drive through the forest.

Candle Lake Festival of Lights

Date: Now until December 28

Walking time: 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Driving time: 6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. 

In case you miss the Pike Lake Festival of Lights, head to the festival at Sandy Bay Campground, Candle Lake Provincial Park.

You can enjoy the twinkling light displays either on foot or from your car. You can also enjoy skiing on illuminated trails, and there will also be treats and other activities to explore, just ask the service centre for more information.

The event is free to those with a valid Park Entry permit, which can also be purchased at the park entrance gate or bought online.

Glow Saskatoon (Tickets required)

Date: Now until December 28

Location: Prairieland

Glow Saskatoon is an indoor light festival, with a market, food fair, and live entertainment perfect for the holiday season! By attending, you’ll also be supporting the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation.

Enjoy illuminated displays, kid-friendly activities, Merry Maker’s Market (vendor market), and Dakota Dunes Entertainment Stage with live music.

New Year’s Eve: A Night to Remember

Date: December 31

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Indulge in a four-course gourmet dinner with the Saskatoon Jazz Orchestra! Savour a multi-course menu crafted by TCU Place’s Executive Chef, and enjoy dancing while listening to live sets from the Orchestra!

Tickets are available for any occasion—whether you’re celebrating with a partner, friends, family, or even at a singles table!

Get your tickets and check out the menu by visiting here.

Final Words

Spending the holidays alone could be difficult, especially when you’re far from home. It helps to stay occupied with events across the city. Taking time for self-care, reflecting on the year, and spending quality time with yourself before the winter term can help you relax and refresh.

Additionally, even though you are not physically with your loved ones, you can still connect emotionally. Taking time to speak with them often, bonding virtually, and keeping fond memories alive in your heart can help you feel less alone.

Happy holidays everyone!