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FORT MCMURRAY — Santas Anonymous is preparing to return for its 42nd year of helping local families celebrate Christmas, with several new fundraising events joining longtime community traditions.
Students and staff at Father Patrick Mercredi Community High School are already preparing for the 2026 campaign, which provides Christmas dinners and gifts for children in families from both the Fort McMurray Catholic and public school divisions.
The campaign officially gets underway in November with the annual Family Christmas Market at Father Mercredi. This year, organizers are expanding the market to two days, with more than 80 vendors expected alongside a children’s Fun Zone.
Superior Propane will also be on site filling propane tanks, with proceeds going to Santas Anonymous.
Hockey fans will have two opportunities to support the campaign through teddy bear toss events this year.
The first will be held during a Junior Oil Barons game on Nov. 21, followed by another during the Fort McMurray Oil Barons game on Nov. 28 at Centrefire Place. Fans are encouraged to bring teddy bears to donate, while bears will also be available for purchase at the arena.
Keyano College Athletics is joining the campaign this year, with admission to Huskies women’s and men’s basketball games on Nov. 27 available through a donation of a new toy, book or money to Santas Anonymous.
Organizers are also planning a new “Getting Fit with Santas” week featuring community fitness classes such as boot camps, yoga and Zumba. Participation fees will go toward filling Christmas hampers, with additional details to be announced.
The campaign is asking residents, businesses and community groups to help by collecting new toys, particularly gifts suitable for youth between 12 and 18, or by making monetary donations.
Donations of new toys, gifts for babies or seniors and money can also be dropped off at Father Patrick Mercredi Community High School.
Volunteers will be needed to deliver hampers in teams of two on Dec. 18. Those interested in helping can contact the school in early December.
Packing week is scheduled for Dec. 14 to 17, followed by hamper delivery on Dec. 18.
Santas Anonymous has been organized through Father Patrick Mercredi Community High School for more than four decades, relying on support from students, staff, businesses and residents throughout Wood Buffalo.
Organizers say the generosity of the community remains central to the program’s ability to provide Christmas meals and gifts to local families each year.
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