The big week is finally here, friends! After a year’s worth of anticipation, Christmas is nearly upon us. In celebration of this, we’ve put together a list that includes a full 5 days’ worth of spirit-inducing displays, markets, and more. As our gift to you, here are 10 things to do this week in Calgary. Enjoy!
WANDER THE SPARKLE, SPARKLE INDOOR LIGHT EVENT
Held at Calgary Telus Spark Science Centre, Sparkle Sparkle is back for another year of magic, whimsy, and light! This week Calgarians can check out an event unlike anything else in the city and maybe score some date-night points in the process.
When: Until January 2nd
Where: 220 Saint George’s Drive Northeast, Calgary
Time: 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Cost: $19+
CHECK OUT THE HOME ALONE POPUP BAR
This week in celebration of the season AND the beloved classic Home Alone, Eighty-Eight Brewing co. will take thirsty Calgarians lovers beyond their living room screens for an immersive experience unlike any other. Thanks to detailed superfans and decorator extraordinaire’s, the entire YYC taphouse will be transformed floor-to-ceiling with booby traps and tinsel, garland, and balls. Heck, you may even run into a wet bandit or two! Check it out!
When: All December long
Where: 2600 Portland St SE #1070, Calgary
STROLL CALGARY’S ZOOLIGHTS
Looking for a little magic? This week, ogle millions of enchanting lights strung through the trees at the Calgary Zoo, grab a hot cocoa, a snack and take a seat by the fire – it is tradition after all! Heck, while you’re there, maybe go for a lap or two around their skating rink, or pop a squat with the big man himself.
When: Until January 2nd
Where:210 St. George’s Drive NE
Time: 5 pm – 9 pm
Cost: $19.95
HIT THE OLYMPIC PLAZA SKATING RINK
Lace-up, folks – because you can finally take the ice and feel the wind through your hair at Calgary’s only outdoor refrigerated skating rink, Olympic Plaza! If there’s only one Christmas-type event you hit this season – let it be this!
Where: 228 8 Ave. SE, Calgary
Time: 6 am – 11 pm
CATCH ALBERTA BALLET’S ‘THE NUTCRACKER’
Miss live shows? So did we! The talented folks behind holiday Classic The Nutcracker are set to take the stage this weekend. Featuring dancers from the Alberta Ballet Company with music from the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, this magical experience is one you won’t want to miss.
When: Until Friday, December 24th
Where: 1415 14 Ave NW, Calgary
Time: See times above
Cost: $60+
BUILD & EXPLORE CALGARY’S XMAS LIGHTS MAP
The holiday season is officially here and that means it’s time to check out all of the lights, events, and decorations around town. We know that it can be a handful to try and find all of the best places to visit so we created a map for you. From small, home displays to larger-than-life decorations, you’ll find it all. Even better, you can add your picks to the map!
Where: Click above to see our picks
CLIMB ABOARD ALBERTA’S PRAIRIE RAILWAY TO THE NORTH POLE
Inspired by the popular movie Polar Express, and set to the acclaimed soundtrack, the folks behind this enchanting ride have coordinated an evening taken right from the pages of the classic children’s story by Chris Van Allsburg. This weekend, climb aboard and experience the magic!
When: Dates throughout December
Where: 4611 47 Ave, Stettler, AB
Cost: $70+
VISIT THE NIKKA YUKO JAPANESE GARDEN FOR ITS HOLIDAY DISPLAY
Don’t miss this one, Calgary! This week, start your engine and 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 flower gardens, this winter – guests can actually experience the magic of its lantern and light festival – an event that will take your breath away.
When: All December long
Where: Corner of 9th Ave S &, Mayor Magrath Dr. S, Lethbridge
WANDER THE CALGARY CHRISTMAS MARKET
Last chance, YYC! With thoughtfully crafted goods from all the OG vendors you know and love, plus fresh Christmas trees, and tons of unreal food – the Calgary Farmer’s Market is the perfect place to hit up this week to get into the holiday spirit.
When: Until December 23rd
Where: Calgary Farmers Market, 510 77th Avenue SE, Calgary
OR HAVE A SIP AT THE MIRACLE ON 1ST STREET POPUP
Serving Xmas-themed cocktails in a variety of Christmas mugs and glasses, Miracle of 1st Street will return again this year to completely transform Calgary’s Proof cocktail bar with over-the-top decorations from floor to ceiling Don’t miss out!
When: Until December 24th
Where: 1302 1 St SW, Calgary, AB
