It's that holly jolly time of year; snow is falling, Christmas music is in the air and trees are being trimmed.
Here at Sask Parks, we ensure the festivities don't stop at your front door either; with tons of things to fill your holiday calendar, we are ready to welcome you to our parks and bring in the holiday spirit.
Check out our top 5 recommendations to make your Christmas festive this year.
November 26 - December 23 Cost: Free with a valid Park Entry Permit
Nothing screams holidays more than cutting down your own Christmas tree. At Cypress Hills, you have the unique opportunity to take a small piece of the park home with you when you participate in Trim Your Tree.
This is not your average Griswold family experience; at Cypress Hills, you can spend a night (or more) at The Resort and enjoy a delicious meal at Ivan's Restaurant before cozying up by the fire. After you cut down your own Christmas tree, try snowshoeing through the park and spend your night gazing at the stars during the Astronomy Walk.
Insider's Tip: Don't miss the newly open dry sauna and hot tub this season. Free with a valid park entry permit.
December 16-21 Time: 5:30 p.m. - 9:45 p.m. Cost: Free with a valid Park Entry Permit
Tour Pike Lake Provincial Park and see the displays of twinkling lights brought to you by local groups and businesses.
Visitors can meet and get their photos taken with Santa and vote for their favourite light display. Along with bragging rights, the winning group from the light display contest will receive $500, sponsored by Saskamper Apparel, and the runner-up will receive $250, sponsored by Traveland RV.
December 23-31 Time: 5-9 p.m. Cost: Free with a valid Park Entry Permit
Located in the north? Candle Lake Provincial Park is hosting its annual Festival of Lights.
Enjoy the twinkling light displays sponsored by local businesses on foot or from the comfort of your car. Better yet, bring your cross-country skis or snowshoes and enjoy the illuminated trails.
- Walking time: 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
- Driving time: 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Stop at the entry gate to pick up your complimentary hot chocolate and treat.
Open Daily Cost: Free with a valid Park Entry Permit
These aren't reindeer, but they are just as impressive to see! At Buffalo Pound, you can check out something you usually don't come across, a bison herd. The wintertime is a great time to check them out and take a few photos. You can find them just a 4.5-kilometre drive from Lower Chalet Campground.
While you're there, rent some snowshoes and explore the park or try hiking and fat biking on some trails!
Opening January 1 Cost: Free with a valid Park Entry Permit
There is no better way to ring in the new year than by taking a serene skate through a unique two-kilometre skating trail that winds through the Aspen Campground.
Stay tuned for tons of new offerings at the park this year. We know you'll love it!
Insider's Tip: Want to take the stress out of winter driving? Experience Skate the Park in partnership with Engelheim Tours on January 27.
Need help figuring out what to get your BFF, partner or parents? Try an e-gift card to Saskatchewan Provincial Parks. Whether they use it for an Annual Park Entry Permit, campsite, or both, it's a great option for under the Christmas tree.