An annual event from the Town of Okotoks was named a national contest finalist.
Light Up Okotoks was named a finalist in the 2025 Canadian Event Awards for Best Event for a City or Municipality, which has placed them alongside major centres, such as Edmonton, Calgary, and Toronto.
For 32 years, the Town of Okotoks has held the Light Up Okotoks event, which has become a cherished holiday tradition amongst residents, which sees the Town transform into a scene from a Hallmark movie.
There are twinkling lights, carolers singing, firepits ablaze, and over 15,000 people gathering together downtown in the cold for the lighting of the Town's Christmas tree and firework finale.
"It’s more than just lights and music -- it’s a celebration of who we are as a community," explained Okotoks Mayor, Tanya Thorn, in a media release. "Being named a finalist alongside Canada’s largest cities shows that our small but vibrant community can shine just as bright."
To put this event on requires a lot of planning and staff members and volunteers coming together.
In total, the Town spends 500 hours planning the event, and using 120 staff members, 50 volunteers, 60 sponsors and local businesses, and 12 local entertainers and choirs to make the event happen.
"Every detail is thoughtfully planned to create a memorable holiday experience for our community," said Community Events Specialist, Connie Drake in the release. "From horse-drawn wagon rides along the lit-up river valley to the merry market showcasing local artisans, the event is all about community pride, celebrating the magic of the holiday season, and giving our businesses and nonprofits a chance to shine."
The Best Event for a City or Municipality award helps to recognize the events that go above and beyond entertainment to foster community spirit, support businesses in the community, and create a lasting legacy.
The judges for this award will evaluate the excellence in logistics, sustainability, risk management, community engagement, as well as overall impact, all areas in which the Town feels Light Up Okotoks shine.
There are eight events in the running for Best Event for a City or Municipality, and the winners of this award will be announced at the Canadian Event Awards Gala on April 30 in Toronto.
To learn more about the event, head over to the Canadian Event Awards page.