The iconic Fairmont Hotel Macdonald in downtown Edmonton officially launched the holiday season with its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony, combining festive cheer with charitable giving for the Edmonton community.
A Tradition of Giving Back
On November 21, 2025, the historic hotel welcomed guests and community members to witness the illumination of its magnificent Christmas tree. The event, captured by CTV News Edmonton, featured Galen MacDougall's documentation of the ceremony that has become a beloved tradition in Alberta's capital city.
The tree lighting ceremony serves dual purposes - marking the beginning of the Christmas season while simultaneously raising awareness and funds for important local causes. Though specific charity details weren't provided in the initial report, the hotel has historically supported various Edmonton-based organizations through similar events.
Edmonton's Holiday Calendar Fills Up
The Hotel Macdonald's tree lighting coincides with numerous other festive activities happening throughout Edmonton during the November 21-23 weekend. The city's calendar includes various holiday festivals, Disney-themed events, and blockbuster entertainment options for families and visitors.
This seasonal celebration occurs amid other significant Alberta developments, including the approved recall petition for a third legislature member and ongoing political discussions affecting the province.
Historic Setting for Holiday Magic
The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald, with its castle-like architecture overlooking the North Saskatchewan River Valley, provides a picturesque backdrop for holiday celebrations. The hotel has been a cornerstone of Edmonton's hospitality scene since 1915, making its Christmas traditions particularly meaningful to local residents.
The 2025 tree lighting continues the hotel's longstanding commitment to community engagement and seasonal celebrations that bring Edmontonians together. As one of the city's most recognizable landmarks, the Hotel Macdonald's holiday events often attract both local families and tourists seeking traditional Christmas experiences.
While the original report didn't specify which charitable organizations would benefit from this year's event, the hotel has previously supported local food banks, children's charities, and other community initiatives during the holiday season.
