Happy Friday eve, everyone. Congrats! Through snow and wind, work and school, you survived another week and we think that’s worth celebrating. Not sure how to spend it? From food festivals to popups, museums and inner-city light displays, here are 10 things to do in Calgary this LONG weekend.

EXPLORE, ILLUMINATE & INTERACT WITH THE CITY AT GLOW FESTIVAL

Experience the Glow Winter Light Festival from February 17th to 19th. Enjoy all the fun of interactive light displays, art, entertainment, food trucks and so much more in the heart of the downtown core. For more information, visit www.glowfestyyc.ca

When: Thursday, February 17th-19th
Where: See locations above
Time: 6 pm – 11 pm

DRINK YOUR WAY THROUGH YYC HOT CHOCOLATE FEST

Bundle up, head out, and sip your way through the weekend! With over 70 restaurants and cafes around the city participating, the annual YYC Hot Chocolate Festival is back! Hit one, hit a couple, or hit them all and taste your way around town, the city is your oyster.

When: Until February 28th
Where: Participating Restaurants

GET CURIOSER AT THE ALICE POPUP

Sip themed cocktails, play games, and snap as many pictures as your little heart desires! This weekend, Calgarians will still be able to experience a topsy turvy event where colours are a little brighter, directions are up for interpretation and unbirthdays are as merry as can be at the Alice In Wonderland Popup bar. You won’t want to miss it1

When: Until March 31st
Where: #1 – 3300 14th Ave NE, Calgary
Cost: $47

WADDLE WITH THE PENGUINS AT THE CALGARY ZOO

We don’t usually spend every weekend hoping for cold temperatures, but there’s something special about this one, friends! This weekend, if the weather permits, check out the Zoo for their adorable 10th annual Penguin Walk! This event is truly as cute as can be, so check it out!

When: Every day until mid-March (weather depending)
Where: 210 St. George’s Drive NE, Calgary
Time: 10:30 am
Cost: $29.95+

‘SLIDE’ INTO WINTERFEST

Celebrating the very best that the chilly season has to offer, Sylvan Lake’s Winterfest kicks off this weekend with a ton of exciting events and activities for the whole family. Please note, however, that some activities like the snow slides and snow maze will be dependent on the weather.

When: Saturday, February 19th – 21st, 2022
Where: See directions here
Time: 8 pm – 9 pm
Cost: Prices vary per activity

WANDER THE BEAUTIFUL WINTER GARDEN LIGHTS FESTIVAL

Looking for something truly enchanting? This weekend, check out the Nikka Yuko Japanese Gardens – one of the most beautiful places not just in Alberta, but all of North America! Though it’s best known for its flowers, this season, guests can experience the magic of its Winter Light Festival – an event that will take your breath away.

When: Until Mid-March
Where: Corner of 9th Ave S &, Mayor Magrath Dr. S, Lethbridge

CHECK OUT CHINOOK BLAST

Celebrating culture, creativity, and Calgary, YYC’s Chinook Blast has returned for another year of light, fun, and colour! This long weekend, enjoy the very best in local art, music, theatre and recreation in addition to a number of incredible light displays that will be visible throughout the city’s core.

When: Until February 27th
Where: Downtown Calgary

INDULGE AT THE PAPER PLANES POPUP

We hope you’re hungry, Calgary! This weekend, Paper Planes, a Calgary resto with casual bites and unique cocktails is set to pop up in Marda Loop and you’re going to want to eat and drink your way through the entire menu. Check it out!

When: Friday, February 18th – 20th
Where: 2018 33 Ave SW, Calgary, AB

CELEBRATE THE MONTH OF LOVE

Looking to add some spice to this weekend? Check out the Month of Love Popup at Honey Calgary. From cupid floats and ‘other fish in the sea’ fishbowls, guests can enjoy themed sips, music and insane desserts.

When: Until February 28th
Where: 1324-17th Ave SW, Calgary

HIT AN ALBERTA MUSEUM FOR FREE

From iconic homes to dino bones, this weekend families will be able to explore some of Alberta’s very best and brightest spots – all of which will fill your head and heart with memories and knowledge while giving your wallet a much-needed break.

Whew! There you have it, friends. 10 things to this Family Day Long weekend in Calgary! Enjoy, be safe and enjoy! It’s gonna be a good one!