It’s that time of year when the Rockies to the west are more beautiful than ever, the foothills are lightly dusted with shimmery snow, and everything around us starts to feel a little cozier.
As a small yet bustling community just outside of Jasper National Park, we take winter living to another level. From outdoor winter adventures, to cozy local shops, to seasonal events that bring out the whole community and visitors from all over western Canada.
The holidays might feel different this year, but if you’re looking for that special holiday magic you’ll find it in Hinton, Alberta.
Kick off the holiday season at Moonlight Madness
Mark your calendars for Thursday, November 19! Community Moonlight Madness is an annual event hosted by the Hinton Chamber of Commerce to celebrate and support Hinton’s local business community.
At sundown, watch our community ‘light up’ as we turn on the lights all over Green Square at approximately 5 p.m. on Thursday, November 19. If you’d like to watch in-person or from inside your parked vehicle, please follow all provincial and municipal COVID-19 mandates and traffic regulations. We encourage you to follow along on Instagram @ExploreHinton!
An entire winter wonderland in our backyard
Your perfect day starts with a local cup of coffee before hitting the spectacular Nordic Centre ski trails or the Skating Oval at Maxwell Lake. For an accessible winter adventure close to the heart of town, a winter stroll around the Beaver Boardwalk with your camera in tow never disappoints.
With so much to do and explore—in town and just outside—it’s not hard to see why Hinton has become Alberta’s best hidden gem for adventure. Opening times for your favourite trails and skating rinks may vary by season and weather conditions.
Looking to make the most of your winter adventures and spend the holidays in a snow-dusted cabin just outside of town?
Trust us, having your morning coffee alongside a spectacular view of Roche Miette or the frosty foothills is even better than it sounds. Looking for accommodations immersed in the local vibe? We’ve got you covered there, too.
Think outside the box
This year, give your loved ones a gift with that special local touch.
That means local merchandise from your favourite local spots, board games and puzzles for cozy days inside, or the perfect curated gift baskets from local shops. You’ll find this and so much more all over Hinton this holiday season.
Events to make your spirits bright throughout the snowy season
Thursday, November 19: Kick off the holiday season at Moonlight Madness
For over 5 years the Hinton Chamber’s Annual Community Moonlight Madness event has been a chance for Hintonites and those in nearby communities to show their support for local businesses. This one-day event on Thursday, November 19 is proud to support local businesses and serve as Hinton’s unofficial kick-off to the holiday season!
CANCELLED for December 2020: The Annual Snowflake Parade
After careful consideration, the Hinton Chamber has decided to move forward with planning the Annual Snowflake Parade, which will be a stationary parade allowing for drive-by viewing and made available online for everyone to enjoy.
Each year, the Snowflake Parade has brought together spectacular floats, fun, music, and dancing from more than 30 different community groups and businesses. It’s a truly magical family-friendly event!
*Update: as per provincial COVID-19 mandates, the Annual Snowflake Parade will not be occurring in December 2020.
Coming February 2021: The Winter Magic Festival
This annual, two-week long celebration of everything winter is a can’t-miss-it event, bringing together locals and visitors to experience a true winter wonderland.
Activities typically include live entertainment and events, workshops for arts & crafts, outdoor activities like snowshoeing, skating, competitions and even more, concluding with the stunningly spectacular Lantern Festival.
*All events, businesses and attendees must follow all provincial and municipal COVID-19 mandates.
Explore Hinton is a local initiative between the Hinton & District Chamber of Commerce and the Town of Hinton to help you #ExploreHinton & the Northern Rockies.
Bring us along on your next adventure by tagging us @ExploreHinton!
