When: December 12–14, 2025
Where: Seven Chiefs Sportsplex & Chief Jim Starlight Centre, Tsuut’ina Nation, Alberta
This December, the holiday season comes alive on the lands of the Tsuut’ina Nation with the return of Christmas at the Nation—a vibrant three-day celebration of Indigenous culture, artistry, and community. Taking place from December 12 to 14, 2025, this beloved annual event transforms the Seven Chiefs Sportsplex & Chief Jim Starlight Centre into one of the largest Indigenous holiday markets in Alberta. Featuring more than 200 Indigenous and local artisans, the market offers a warm and welcoming environment where visitors can experience the spirit of the season through creativity, tradition, and cultural pride.
Organized in partnership with the Tsuut’ina Nation and supported by the Taza development team, Christmas at the Nation highlights the Nation’s commitment to economic growth, cultural continuity, and community gathering. Visitors can explore a wide variety of handcrafted goods—from beadwork and artwork to clothing, home goods, and traditional crafts—making this event an ideal destination for meaningful holiday shopping.
What to Expect
Market Hours:
Friday, December 12: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday, December 13: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Sunday, December 14: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Admission:
$10 per person
Free for children 12 and under
Cash, debit, and credit accepted at the door
Cultural Activities & Entertainment:
Tsuut’ina Nation Dance Performances: Daily performances bring the energy and power of traditional movement, with dancers appearing at set times throughout the weekend.
Elder Storytelling: Guests are invited into an indoor tipi for storytelling sessions led by respected Elders, offering teachings, history, and wintertime stories from the Nation.
Holiday Characters & Santa: Families can enjoy photos with Santa, festive characters, and roaming performers throughout the venue.
Live Music and Performances: Indigenous musicians and performers bring additional vibrancy to the event, especially during the Sunday programming.
Food & Beverages: Seasonal concessions and comforting warm foods are available throughout the day.
Logistics:
Free on-site parking
Located at 19 Bullhead Road, Tsuut’ina Nation
About the Tsuut’ina Nation
Visitors are welcomed with Gujaka Naniya’í, meaning “welcome” in Tsuut’ina. The event is hosted in one of the Nation’s premier community spaces, the Seven Chiefs Sportsplex & Chief Jim Starlight Centre—a state-of-the-art facility designed for cultural, athletic, and public gatherings. The event also reflects the Nation’s long-term vision of cultural revitalization and economic independence through community-led initiatives and partnerships.
Why It Matters
Christmas at the Nation is more than a holiday market—it is a meaningful celebration of Indigenous resilience, tradition, and creativity. By gathering more than 200 makers, the event uplifts Indigenous entrepreneurs and artists while giving community members and visitors the opportunity to directly support their work.
Through dance, storytelling, and cultural sharing, the event fosters deeper understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous attendees. It is a space where families, elders, artists, and guests can come together to honor tradition, celebrate identity, and create winter memories rooted in culture and community.
Participation & Contact
Vendor spaces for the 2025 event are fully booked, though a waitlist is available for artisans hoping to participate. Guests seeking more information about scheduling, visitor guidelines, or vendor opportunities may contact the organizers through the Seven Chiefs Sportsplex administration office.
Final Thoughts
The Tsuut’ina Nation Christmas Market 2025 is a joyful and culturally rich seasonal gathering that beautifully blends holiday spirit with Indigenous tradition. Whether you are returning for another year or experiencing the event for the first time, you are invited to explore, learn, and celebrate within the welcoming circle of the Tsuut’ina Nation. Come with an open heart—and leave with meaningful memories, handcrafted treasures, and a deeper appreciation for the vibrant traditions that make this community shine.
Visitors are encouraged to follow the official event page for ongoing updates, programming highlights, and important announcements as the celebration approaches. Those wishing to explore additional cultural gatherings throughout the year can also visit our Indigenous Events page, where we feature upcoming pow wows, markets, and community celebrations from Nations across Canada.
