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By rdnewsNOW staff

Dec. 11, 2025

Holiday Party Palooza descends upon 2SLGBTQIA+ Community

Dec 8, 2025 | 3:28 PM

Queer Neighbours Society of Red Deer has announced its second annual Holiday Party.

The event takes place Dec. 11, starting at 6 pm. Organizers say multiple donors and agencies have helped to gather gifts so that each holiday party attendee can have a gift from Gay Santa and Mrs. Claus (Berry La Tina and Sabor Latino’s Victor).

Whether you identify as a member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community or an ally, organizers say all are welcome.

The organization is accepting donations of gifts for attendees up until Tuesday night, Dec. 9. Officials say you can check their social media for more information if you would like to donate something new around $20 value.

“We feel that it is especially important to create and encourage a sense of community in Red Deer and Central Alberta in light of all the recent and damaging anti-Transgender policies,” says Stephanie Hodgkins, Chairperson, in a press release.

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“There are more myths than facts,” says Hodgkns. “For instance, the dread puberty blockers? Those are completely reversible. Transgender people feel afraid and marginalised in our area, and we want everyone in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community to have a place to come together, make friends, and just feel free to be themselves.”

“The holiday party is only the start of our programming for next year,” adds Hodgkins. “We hope to have one drop-in time per month where people can also do crafts, play board games, and just enjoy each other’s company.”

“Everyone who can be nice and not naughty is welcome to attend,” continues Hodgkins. “You don’t need to register or bring anything except yourselves. It is family friendly, and we will have child activities and childcare available thanks to our amazing volunteer Tegan.”

To find out more about the Queer Neigbours Society and their monthly events (nine per month), visit their social media or website at qnsrd.org.