Share the Cheer
Share the Cheer connects U of A international students and community members for a meaningful holiday exchange. International students can experience a Canadian holiday tradition, while community members can welcome a student into their home.
It’s a great way to connect, learn from one another, and create lasting memories.
Share the Cheer activities run from December 19, 2026, to January 3, 2027.
Ready to Share the Cheer?
U of A Community Member
Open your door, share your traditions, and help international students feel welcome.
International students
Connect with a community member and experience cultural exchange from a new perspective.
Student registration will open in late November. Notifications will appear in the International Student Digest.
How Share the Cheer works
- Complete the registration form for your role as a host or guest.
- The Share the Cheer team reviews registrations and matches a suitable host-guest
- Once matched, hosts and guests connect, enjoy the experience, and make a new connection!
Important Dates
- December 3: Registration Deadline
- December 7 - 11: Receive your match email with your guest details
- December 12 - 18: Connect with your match and plan your gathering
- December 19 - January 3: Enjoy your Share the Cheer experience!
Activities could include
- Sharing a meal: A holiday dinner or lunch
- Hot chocolate and a movie night
- Baking cookies or making decorations together
- Visiting a local attraction
- Ice skating, tobogganing, snowshoeing, or a winter walk
- A craft session to share traditions and make seasonal gifts
- Having coffee or tea and spending time together
U of A community members - Become a Host
As a host, you can invite an international student into your home or community and create an opportunity for cultural exchange and connection. A shared meal, conversation, or simple holiday activity can be meaningful.
Hosts and guests are encouraged to communicate openly about expectations, preferences, schedules, and activities before meeting.
Who can host?
U of A Alumni, Members of the Senate, Board of Governors, Current Faculty and Staff, Graduate students living in their off-campus accommodation
As a host, you will:
- Welcome at least two international students for lunch, dinner, or an activity during the university’s winter closure period.
- Contact your guests within one week of receiving their details to arrange your gathering.
- Confirm dietary needs or allergies in advance. While students are asked to share any restrictions, it’s always thoughtful to double-check when planning your menu.
International students - Be a guest
U of A international students are invited to register as a guest for Share the Cheer and connect with a local host or family. Enjoy a meal, share traditions, learn about each other's cultures, and experience the holiday season from a different perspective.
Who can participate?
Share the Cheer is open to eligible international students at the University of Alberta.
