MLA Report: Embrace the joy and love of the Holiday Season

By Justin Wright on December 17, 2025.

As December arrives and our community prepares for the Holiday Season, I’m reminded of the diverse tapestry of traditions that make Medicine Hat and our entire constituency so special.

Every family creates traditions that reflect their values and strengthen the bonds between loved ones. Whether gathering around a holiday table, lighting candles, exchanging gifts, volunteering in our community, or simply spending quiet moments together, these cherished customs form the heartbeat of our winter season. These traditions, passed down through generations or newly created, become the stories we share and the memories we treasure.

Throughout Cypress-Medicine Hat, I see families preparing for celebrations in countless beautiful ways. Some are baking recipes handed down from grandparents, filling homes with the aroma of beloved treats. Others are decorating their homes with lights that brighten our neighbourhoods during these long winter nights. Many are planning gatherings that will bring together relatives from near and far, creating those precious moments of connection that sustain us throughout the year.

This time of year offers us all an opportunity to pause from our busy lives and reconnect with what matters most. The warmth of family and friends, the spirit of generosity that defines our community, and the simple joy of being together.

In Cypress-Medicine Hat, I’ve witnessed countless examples of neighbours helping neighbours, local organizations supporting those in need and families opening their hearts and homes to others.

From food drives to toy collections, from community dinners to charitable giving, our constituency demonstrates the true spirit of the season through acts of kindness both large and small.

I’m particularly moved by the many volunteers who give their time during this season to ensure no one in our community feels forgotten.

Whether serving meals, delivering hampers, visiting seniors, or organizing community events, these individuals embody the compassion that makes our region so special. Their dedication reminds us that the greatest gifts we can offer are often our time, our attention, and our care for one another.

Our local businesses and organizations also play a vital role in creating the magic of the season. From the festive displays in our downtown cores to the special events that bring our communities together, they help create an atmosphere of celebration and joy that touches all of us.

I encourage everyone to support our local merchants as you prepare for your celebrations – keeping our dollars local strengthens our entire community.

As we navigate the winter months ahead, let us also remember those who may find this season challenging. For some, the holidays can bring feelings of loneliness, financial stress, or the acute absence of loved ones.

A kind word, an invitation to share a meal, or simply checking in on a neighbor can make an immeasurable difference. These small acts of thoughtfulness reflect the values that unite us as a community.

As your MLA, I’m grateful for the privilege of serving such a vibrant and caring constituency. Throughout the year, I’ve had the honour of meeting with many of you, hearing your concerns, celebrating your successes and working to address the challenges facing our communities.

The Holiday Season reminds us that despite our differences, we share common hopes for health, happiness and prosperity for our families and community.

Looking ahead to the new year, I remain committed to being your voice in Edmonton and ensuring the needs of Cypress-Medicine Hat are heard and addressed. But for now, as December unfolds, I encourage all of us to embrace the traditions that bring us joy, to create new memories with those we love and to extend the hand of friendship to all we meet.

To all residents of Cypress-Medicine Hat, whatever traditions you hold dear, I hope this season brings you peace, joy and precious moments with those you love. May the warmth of family and friends sustain you through the winter months ahead, and may the spirit of community that defines our region continue to flourish.

Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas season and a bright, prosperous New Year.

Justin Wright is the MLA for Cypress-Medicine Hat

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