Lethbridge has joined the Strong Cities Network, connecting with more than 270 global municipalities committed to reducing hate, extremism, and polarization.

This membership grants Lethbridge access to shared training and innovative tools, all aimed at building a safer, more inclusive city.

Selected as one of only 10 Canadian cities, Lethbridge will participate in the new Prevention Academy Canada initiative, which is backed by Public Safety Canada and provides communities with free resources to tackle hate, foster resilience, and communicate prevention efforts.

The city’s ongoing work through Community Social Development includes guiding the Community Wellbeing and Safety Strategy, investing in Family and Community Support Services, and leading programs to prevent violence among youth.

Recent steps, such as a community safety survey and a $200,000 provincial grant for Indigenous safety programs, highlight an active, proactive approach to community well-being.

Lethbridge continues to build a more resilient and welcoming community for everyone.

Rental prices in Lethbridge saw a slight rise in December 2025, even as Canada’s national average rent dipped to $2,060, marking a 2.3% annual decline.

Lethbridge’s average asking rent climbed to $1,570 per month, making it the eighth most affordable city among 60 communities surveyed.

One-bedroom rentals in the city increased by 2.5% from last year, averaging $1,400 monthly.

Two-bedroom units also edged up by 1.2%, now sitting at $1,548.

Other Alberta cities posted higher averages, with Calgary at $1,875, Edmonton at $1,615, and Red Deer at $1,549.

Despite minor increases, Lethbridge remains a relatively affordable choice in the province.

In contrast, major cities like North Vancouver, Vancouver, and Oakville continue to top national rent charts, underscoring Lethbridge’s ongoing value for renters.

Lethbridge will soon embrace the warmth of global holiday traditions at ‘Holiday Traditions Around the World,’ hosted by the Southern Alberta Ethnic Association (SAEA).

This vibrant celebration takes place Saturday, December 13, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Multicultural Centre at 421 - 6 Ave South.

Residents can enjoy a lively mix of cultural displays, traditional dances, a magic show, and classic Christmas films, making it perfect for families and all ages.

Authentic food from Nigeria, Kenya, the Philippines, and China will be available, showcasing the delicious traditions that unite communities.

Admission is pay-as-you-can, allowing everyone to join the festivities, while supporting local vendors through food and drink purchases.

Experience the colourful spirit that makes Lethbridge inclusive and unique at this memorable community event.

The annual 'Cops, Pops, and Pizza' fundraiser in Lethbridge united the community to support Special Olympics Alberta on December 6, 2024.

The Lethbridge Police Service and other southern Alberta officers teamed up with Boston Pizza, where officers and athletes served patrons, sold merchandise, and gathered generous donations.

Boston Pizza’s early donation of $5,815.70 set the tone for a night of giving.

By the end, the event raised a remarkable $12,339.40 for local Special Olympics athletes.

Constable Braylon Hyggen expressed deep gratitude for both Boston Pizza and the community’s ongoing support.

Special Olympian Tamara Laursen shared how these funds will help athletes attend the 2025 provincial games in Grande Prairie, thanks to the outpouring of community involvement.

The event highlighted the powerful partnership between law enforcement and Lethbridge residents, inspiring hope for future community-driven success.

YWCA Lethbridge & District will host its third annual gala on December 2, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at the Lethbridge Trade and Convention Centre.

The event aims to raise funds for local women and children escaping domestic violence and abuse.

Guests can enjoy a silent auction, live auction, and photo booth, while also connecting with fellow community members.

Lorien Johansen, Community Engagement Coordinator, emphasized that the silent auction is open online, making it easy for anyone to participate, whether or not they attend the gala in person.

The YWCA’s ‘Stockings of Hope’ holiday campaign is also underway, offering residents a chance to adopt stockings, donate gift cards, or contribute financially to help program participants.

Last year’s gala brought in over $160,000, directly supporting essential local services.

The Lethbridge Public Library is celebrating the season with a festive slate of community events.

Parents can enjoy gift wrapping during Tinsel and Tape, while kids create cardboard cars and watch a holiday film. This event runs December 13 at the Crossings Branch and December 20 at the Main Branch, from noon to 5 p.m.

Children can also join Blizzards and Bricks at the Crossings Branch, where they’ll use LEGO to build winter-themed scenes for prizes and community voting.

On December 6, the Main Branch hosts a staged reading of "Lenoire" by playwright Kayla Turnbull, inviting local feedback from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Looking ahead, tickets are available for the 2026 Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour at Yates Memorial Theatre, January 15–17.

Lethbridge residents are being urged to adjust their driving as snow and cold weather settle in.

City Transportation Operations crews are actively plowing and sanding roads, focusing on high-priority routes and addressing hazards such as icy intersections and drifting snow as resources allow.

Juliane Ruck, the city’s Transportation Operations Manager, highlights the team’s preparedness, encouraging drivers to winterize vehicles, check snow route regulations, and allow more time for travel.

Snow routes—marked by blue snowflake tags—are not currently active but may be declared at any time depending on road conditions.

When active, residents must move vehicles off these streets to avoid tickets or getting plowed in.

The Windrow Assistance Service is also available again this season for those needing help with snow piles.

Stay informed by using the Lethbridge Loop app, following the live plow map, or contacting 311 for updates.

Lethbridge Polytechnic welcomes the community back for its annual Winter Fest on Thursday, November 27, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Trades, Technologies and Innovation Facility entrance.

This free, festive event features a hot chocolate bar, a warming outdoor bonfire, and memorable photo ops with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

The Coca-Cola Holiday Caravan makes its exclusive Lethbridge stop, bringing added excitement and unique photo opportunities for all ages.

Guests are invited to donate non-perishable food items to the Lethbridge Polytechnic Students’ Association Food Bank, lending a hand to students in need during the holidays.

New this year, the Holiday Cheer Challenge encourages families to complete festive activities for a chance to win Coca-Cola prize packs.

Celebrate the season, build connections, and make joyful memories at Winter Fest.

The University of Lethbridge has unveiled the Ian Tyson Reading Area, paying tribute to iconic Canadian musician Ian Tyson, who passed away in 2022.

Tyson’s extensive personal library now resides on Level 10 of the campus library, showcasing rare titles and intimate memorabilia deeply rooted in southern Alberta’s culture, ranching, rodeo, and western art.

Many of the books feature handwritten notes and inscriptions, offering a personal glimpse into Tyson’s life and friendships.

The cozy reading spot, complete with panoramic views of Lethbridge’s coulees, invites both visitors and library members to explore the late musician’s unique collection.

Tyson’s enduring legacy includes induction into the Juno Hall of Fame and the Order of Canada.

By entrusting his library to the University, Tyson’s impact on music and cultural heritage will continue to inspire the local community for generations.

The holiday spirit will dazzle Lethbridge when the Fifth Annual Alberta Large Cars Christmas Cruise returns on December 12, 2025.

This festive parade is not just about the spectacular sight of trucks—it's a heartfelt charity effort supporting the Angel Tree Christmas Campaign.

Organizer Jackie Koch highlights its unique blend of community pride and giving, with families lining Mayor Magrath Drive to cheer as festively decorated rigs roll by, their horns sounding for the children.

The procession starts at the historic Water Tower and wraps up at Exhibition Park, where the trucks go on display and donations of new, unwrapped toys are gathered for local kids in need.

Participation grows every year, and residents are encouraged to be a part of the excitement—either by registering a truck or delivering gifts to Angel Tree drop-off locations throughout the city.

Don’t miss this cherished community tradition brightening Lethbridge’s holiday season and helping children experience the joy of Christmas.

The festive season is officially underway in Lethbridge with the return of a beloved holiday tradition.

The 13th annual Christmas at Casa transforms the downtown art centre into a vibrant showcase of the region’s creative spirit.

Organized by the Allied Arts Council, the event features over 100 artists and artisans, with more than 60 unique vendors offering one-of-a-kind gifts.

This has become the premiere Christmas event for the local arts community.

An immersive atmosphere awaits, with live music filling the Casa building and Rotary Square, including performances of Charlie Brown Christmas jazz.

Attendees can also enjoy live blacksmith demonstrations, hot drinks, and snacks.

The market is a crucial platform for local creators to connect with the community and grow their artistic careers.

The celebration runs Friday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and continues Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The City of Lethbridge is launching a new and convenient way to deal with that drawer full of old batteries.

In a groundbreaking partnership with Call2Recycle Canada, the city is introducing Alberta's very first curbside battery collection program.

Running from November 18-28, the initiative allows residents to recycle used batteries on their regular green cart collection day.

Participation is simple: gather your old household batteries (like AA, AAA, C, D), tape the positive (+) terminals to prevent sparks, and seal them in a clear bag.

Place the bag on top of your green cart for collection crews to see.

This program offers a safe disposal option, as improperly discarded batteries can pose a serious fire hazard.

While special bags are available at locations like City Hall and public libraries, any clear resealable bag is acceptable.

Downtown Lethbridge is set to sparkle as the 2025 holiday season officially kicks off on Thursday, November 20th.

The festivities begin with the much-loved tree lighting ceremony at Festival Square, a powerful symbol of community spirit.

This magical evening will feature an 18-foot tree, horse-drawn wagon rides, and a special appearance by Santa himself, making it a perfect family outing.

The Downtown Lethbridge BRZ is encouraging residents to support local businesses with several exciting initiatives this year.

Shoppers can enjoy late-night hours and participate in the Merry Merchant Map contest to explore local retailers.

There's also a chance to win a grand prize gift basket valued at $500 through the Snow Much Love contest.

This season represents a pivotal moment for local merchants, and community support is more important than ever.

Lethbridge will honour its veterans with two distinct Remembrance Day services on Tuesday, November 11, giving the community a choice of how to pay their respects.

An indoor ceremony, hosted by the General Stewart Branch #4 of the Royal Canadian Legion, will take place at the Lethbridge Trade & Convention Centre.

Doors open at 10 a.m. for the 10:45 a.m. service.

Simultaneously, the 20th Independent Field Battery will lead a traditional outdoor service at the Cenotaph on Veterans Avenue, also beginning at 10:45 a.m.

Weather permitting, a spectacular fly-by is planned for the downtown service, featuring a vintage aircraft and an RCAF C-17 Globemaster.

Remembrance week will officially commence on November 4 with a poppy flag raising at City Hall and the dedication of a new Veteran Commemorative Crosswalk.

Following the ceremonies, the Lethbridge Military Museum will welcome the public with free admission from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The results for the 2025 Lethbridge Municipal and School Election are now official.

Mayor-Elect Blaine Hyggen is set to lead the next City Council, joined by councillors Belinda Crowson, Jenn Schmidt-Rempel, Rajko Dodic, Ryan Wolfe, Al Beeber, Rufa Doria, Mark Campbell, and Ryan Parker.

This election was significantly impacted by new provincial legislation known as Bill 20, which required a manual hand-count of all ballots.

The procedural changes led to a substantial financial impact, doubling the election's cost by more than $300,000 compared to 2021.

Voter turnout was also alarmingly low, with just 19.35 per cent of eligible voters participating—a sharp decline from previous years.

Trustees for both the public and Catholic school divisions have also been confirmed.

The new Mayor and Council will be sworn in on October 27 to begin the 2025-2029 term.

Two essential Lethbridge non-profits have earned major national recognition for their outstanding service and operational excellence.

The Interfaith Food Bank and the Fresh Start Recovery Centre were both named to a prestigious list of Canada's Top 100 Charities.

This honour is not applied for; it results from an independent assessment of financial transparency and proven community impact.

For the Interfaith Food Bank, this marks its third consecutive year on the list.

The organization was praised for its efficiency, with about 90 cents of every dollar donated going directly to its programs.

Similarly, Fresh Start Recovery Centre, which offers addiction treatment, was recognized for its profound impact.

An impressive 86 percent of its funding is channeled directly into providing recovery and rehabilitation services for residents in our community.

This national distinction places a well-deserved spotlight on the critical work happening right here in Lethbridge to support our most vulnerable citizens.

Great news for anyone who frequents Popson Park in Lethbridge.

The familiar frustration of finding a parking spot on a busy weekend is about to become a thing of the past.

The City of Lethbridge is launching a significant project to expand and upgrade the park's two gravel parking lots, aiming to ease congestion and boost safety for all visitors.

To allow crews to work safely, the park will be fully closed to the public beginning on Monday, October 20.

This upgrade directly responds to public feedback about overcrowding near the popular off-leash dog area and the boat launch on the Oldman River.

Planned improvements include more parking spaces, new accessible stalls, and better signage for a smoother traffic flow.

While the month-long closure is an inconvenience, the city anticipates reopening the improved park on November 17, weather permitting.

The Galt Museum is unveiling a unique, community-driven exhibit called “Treasures and Curiosities” on October 18.

Showcasing nearly 200 objects, the collection was curated with help from local participants and dedicated volunteers.

It is a true reflection of Lethbridge heritage.

To celebrate the opening, ‘Canadian Pickers’ star and Lethbridge-native Sheldon Smithens will host a special antique appraisal event.

The “What’s it Worth?” session runs from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. during the launch party.

Smithens, a respected appraiser with deep local roots, notes that the most compelling finds are often those with an incredible story, not just a high price tag.

This event offers a fantastic opportunity for residents to connect with their own history and celebrate the amazing work of the community.

Autumn has arrived in Lethbridge, and with it, the city's annual Fall Leaf Collection program is now underway.

This free service provides a convenient way for residents to manage their seasonal yard cleanup.

To participate, you must schedule a pickup by calling the city's 3-1-1 line before the booking window closes on November 7.

Crews will be collecting bags from October 7 through November 14.

It is essential that leaves are placed in paper yard waste bags, as plastic bags will not be collected.

Bags should be set out at your normal collection spot 24 hours before your scheduled pickup day.

Each household can request up to two separate collections.

Residents can also use their green carts or take leaves directly to a city yard waste depot before they close for the season on November 16.

The countdown is on for the next Lethbridge municipal election, a vital opportunity for residents to shape our community's future.

Every four years, citizens choose the mayor and councillors who will make critical decisions impacting everything from local infrastructure to community services.

These decisions are made right here at City Hall.

For those considering a run for a seat on Lethbridge City Council, it's essential to understand the strict nomination and campaign finance rules.

Meanwhile, voters must ensure they are eligible by being at least 18 years old, a Canadian citizen, and a resident of Lethbridge on election day.

Proper identification will be required at the polls.

Beyond casting a ballot, residents can also contribute by becoming an election worker, playing a crucial role in the democratic process.

Informed participation is key, so get ready to make your voice heard.

The Lethbridge arts community is honouring the legacy of visionary director Fran Rude with a special tribute concert this fall.

Titled To Fran, With Love, the show will celebrate her 50-year career that shaped southern Alberta's cultural landscape.

Set for October 3rd and 4th at the iconic Yates Theatre, the event is a collaboration between friends of the late director and the Rotary Club of Lethbridge Sunrise.

All proceeds are dedicated to funding new scholarships for the Lethbridge and District Music and Speech Arts Festival, an organization Rude passionately supported.

Attendees can expect a spectacular evening revisiting musical numbers from 27 of Fran's most famous shows.

The production features a massive cast of 32 singers and a full 34-piece live orchestra—a hallmark she always insisted upon.

This final act of community service ensures her incredible legacy will continue to support young local artists for years to come.

Postal service across the country has come to a sudden halt as the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) launched an immediate nationwide strike.

The walkout is a direct response to the federal government ordering a massive overhaul of Canada Post to address its financial crisis.

Citing staggering financial losses of over $5 billion since 2018, Public Works Minister Joël Lightbound announced sweeping measures to modernize the service.

The core of the plan involves converting as many as four million homes from traditional door-to-door delivery to community mailboxes.

The union has called the government's move an attack on both postal workers and the public service they provide.

While essential mail like government cheques will continue, Canadians should expect a complete stop to all other mail and parcel delivery for the duration of the strike.

Lethbridge is preparing for its second annual Run to Remember, a unique event that blends community recreation with heartfelt remembrance.

On Sunday, October 5, 2025, residents are invited to walk or run through the scenic pathways of Mountain View Cemetery.

This powerful event offers a space to celebrate life and honour the memory of loved ones in a meaningful setting.

Participants can choose a 2.5K or 5K route, making it accessible for all fitness levels.

Before the run, a moment of silence will be held for reflection.

Attendees can also write the names of those they are remembering on their race bibs and a special community memory board.

Organized by the City of Lethbridge, the event aims to reframe the historic cemetery as a beautiful destination for both reflection and active living.

The race will feature chip timing and custom medals, with registration closing on October 4th.

A foundational shift is underway for one of the city's most storied institutions.

The Lethbridge and District Exhibition is splitting into two distinct entities: a new municipally-controlled corporation named Excite Lethbridge and the newly independent Lethbridge and District Agricultural Society.

Excite Lethbridge, led by CEO Kim Gallucci, will now operate the Agri-Food Hub, officially renaming it the Lethbridge Trade and Convention Centre.

Its mission is to attract major events and conventions, boosting the local economy.

The Agricultural Society is returning to its 1897 roots, focusing on championing Southern Alberta’s deep farming heritage.

Mayor Blaine Hyggen expressed strong support, emphasizing the goal of running the new convention centre efficiently for taxpayers.

The two groups will partner on beloved legacy events like Whoop-Up Days and the Ag Expo, ensuring community traditions continue to thrive under this new structure.

The University of Lethbridge is launching a pivotal new study into the health effects of space travel.

A prestigious research team, led by Dr. Gerlinde Metz at the university’s Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, has secured a $225,000 grant from the Canadian Space Agency.

This funding allows local scientists to join a major collaboration with NASA, conducting a first-of-its-kind analysis of astronauts.

The study will examine how the human body adapts to extreme stressors like intense vibrations, radiation, and the loss of gravity.

While protecting the health of future space travelers is the primary goal, the research has powerful local implications.

The findings could also provide profound insights into aging and disease processes here on Earth.

This mission places Southern Alberta science on a galactic stage, reinforcing the university's reputation as a leader in neuroscience.

Lethbridge celebrated a major milestone on April 26, 2025, as ground was broken for the new Lethbridge Alberta Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

This marks Alberta’s fourth and Canada’s tenth temple, promising to be a center of faith, unity, and community activity.

Elder Randall K. Bennett led the ceremony, encouraging attendees to embrace the temple as a space for spiritual growth.

The diverse crowd of more than 550 guests included local officials, interfaith leaders, business representatives, and Indigenous leaders, underlining the temple’s broad significance.

Mayor Blaine Hyggen shared enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its expected boost to Lethbridge’s economy.

The multistory, 45,000-square-foot temple will generate construction jobs, support local businesses, and draw visitors from across the region.

With accessible location and landscaped grounds, the temple aims to enhance city life for all, fostering unity, peace, and sustainable growth in Lethbridge.

Alberta’s countryside transforms into a vibrant autumn playground, inviting locals to embrace the season’s beauty through festive farm adventures.

Top destinations like Edmonton Corn Maze and Kraay Family Farm near Lacombe offer sprawling corn mazes, interactive sunflower fields, and fun activities such as petting zoos, giant slides, and pumpkin cannons.

Bowden SunMaze at Eagle Creek Farms stuns with its endless sunflower fields and offers U-Pick vegetables for families eager to enjoy a countryside harvest.

In Calgary, the Farmyard delights with its 11-acre maze, family-friendly attractions, and picture-perfect photo spots among blooms.

The Sunny Spot in Drumheller Valley pairs nature with adventure—from its 5-acre maze and pumpkin picking to a special “Field of Screams” night.

Down south, Lethbridge Corn Maze rounds out this list with creative pathways, hayrides, and classic fall fun, making each destination a must-visit for unforgettable memories this autumn.