Congrats on making it through another crazy December work week. Once again, in celebration of a job well done, we’ve put together a list of 10 amazing things to do this weekend in and around Calgary! So, from markets and light displays – check it out, and enjoy.
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
VISIT THE SASKATOON FARM CHRISTMAS MARKET
It’s here! This weekend, shoppers can enjoy the holiday season for less, by shopping for goods made by local artists, bakers, and pro crafters at the Saskatoon Farm Christmas Market! Meet and greet special guests, including Santa Claus and the Grinch, and indulge in some incredible tasty snacks! We’re talking fresh mini donuts, kettle corn, soft pretzels, and cinnamon buns (just to name a few). Yum!
When: Friday, December 10th – 12th
Where: 80181 338 Ave East Foothills, AB
Time: See times above
Cost: $6
CATCH ALBERTA BALLET’S ‘THE NUTCRACKER’
Suit up, Calgary! 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. After all, hasn’t it just been far too long since you saw a live show?!
When: Friday, December 10th – 24th
Where: 1415 14 Ave NW, Calgary
Time: See times above
Cost: $60+
SHOP THE MARKET COLLECTIVE HOLIDAY SERIES
This weekend, support local businesses at the annual Holiday Market Collective! Bring your friends, family, and credit card (of course) and enjoy the many vendors, the endless items, and the spirit of Christmas. Just make sure you save some cash for eating and drinking afterward though – you’ll more than likely work up an appetite.
When: Friday, December 10th – 12th
Where: 20 Roundup Way SE, Calgary (Hall B and C)
Time: See times above
Cost: $6 for the weekend
TAKE IN AIRDRIE’S FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
Did you know that Western Canada’s largest free outdoor walk-through Christmas light display was in Airdrie? It’s true and this year they’ll be celebrating their 25th anniversary! Bundle up, folks – because it’s going to be bigger and better than ever!
When: Until December 31st
Where: Nose Creek Park in Airdrie, AB
Time: 6 pm – 9 pm
Cost: FREE
OR WANDER THE CALGARY CHRISTMAS MARKET
With thoughtfully crafted goods from all the OG vendors that you know & love, plus 12 additional seasonal vendors, fresh Christmas trees, and tons of unreal food – the Calgary Christmas Market is the perfect place to get in the holiday spirit this weekend.
When: Until December 23rd
Where: Calgary Farmers Market, 510 77th Avenue SE, Calgary
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
WITNESS SOMETHING TRULY MAGICAL AT THE BANFF GONDOLA
As if a ride on Banff’s gondola wasn’t already one of the most magical experiences you can have in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains this winter, Pursuit, the company behind the high climbing attraction will introduce Nightrise – an immersive activity that merges multimedia, storytelling, and nature for what they’re calling a “new and inspiring perspective” at the location.
When: Until March 12th
Where: 100 Mountain Ave, Banff, AB
Time: 5 pm
Cost: $56
WARD OFF SOME WET BANDITS AT THE HOME ALONE POPUP BAR
This holiday season, in celebration of the season AND the beloved classic Home Alone, Eighty-Eight Brewing co. in Calgary will take holiday 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
Ahh, a holiday tradition! This weekend 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
And there you have it, friends! 10 things to do in Calgary this weekend. Now get making this month’s calendar! It’s going to be a busy one!
