Christmas comes early to Casa this weekend

By Lethbridge Herald on November 14, 2025.

Alejandra Pulido-Guzman
Lethbridge Herald

The Allied Arts Council of Lethbridge (AACL) is bringing Christmas at Casa back for its 13th season today and tomorrow, to provide residents an opportunity to do some holiday shopping while supporting local artisans and artists. 

Will Big Bull, manager of engagement with the AACL said the event kicks off the Holiday season and this year Christmas at Casa is showcasing creations of more than 60 local artists and artisans. 

“This event is free to enjoy, but we are encouraging people to bring non-perishable items to be donated to the Lethbridge Food Bank,” said Big Bull. 

He said the event showcases handcrafted works mostly in the holiday theme, with everything from ornaments to clothing, jewelry, glassworks, pottery, fine art, textiles, photography, and woodturning. 

“In addition to browsing the market, guests can support community programs by purchasing holiday ornaments and greeting cards, with proceeds benefiting the Accessibility Modified Art Programs for Adults,” said Big Bull. 

As the event takes place throughout two days, there are multiple activities taking place for everyone to enjoy while doing their shopping. 

On Friday, Santa will be stopping by to enjoy some delicious hot chocolate, and those in attendance will be able to watch a live blacksmithing demonstration by Crow & Clog Forge in Rotary Square, 

“The demonstration features artisan Joshua Vandenhoek, a Southern Albertan who opened his own shop to craft high-quality functional and decorative ironwork,” said Big Bull. 

He added that Vandenhoek will be at Christmas at Casa to share his hands-on experience from 5 to 8 p.m. 

“There will also be some mulled wine for adults to enjoy while The Incanto Singers perform their renditions of everyone’s favorite holiday tunes,” said Big Bull. 

Inside Casa, the local ensemble Christmas 1965 will be playing classics from A Charlie Brown Christmas and The Ventures, and Jan and Tam will also be performing. 

On Saturday, local musicians Alice Tinordi and Stuart Dolby, Dale Ketchenson, Brad Hagen and Ryan Wang with Lisa Mo, and the UofL Conservatory of Music’s Young Artists Music Academy, will be providing a backdrop of holiday sounds. 

“While taking part of Christmas at Casa, people are welcome to explore the new exhibit in the Augusta Gallery,” said Big Bull. 

He added that they will also be supporting the Lethbridge Family Services Angel Tree and people are welcome to support that as well. 

Christmas at Casa will take place Friday from 5 to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.