It’s here, folks! Christmas is finally in sight and things are about to get elfin’ crazy. From dinners and friends, to gift giving and movie marathons, the holiday fun is about to begin – but for those of you who may not know where to start, here are 10 things happening this weekend in Calgary. Enjoy and happy holidays!
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 weekend 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+
HAVE A MOUNTAINTOP CHRISTMAS
A magical event that will knock the socks right off of your fireplace, guests are invited to climb aboard one of the Banff Gondolas sky sleighs for some unreal mountaintop views of wildlife and the powder below. Once at the summit, you can browse Santa’s workshop, decorate cookies, roll your own maple taffy and watch a film in their comfy cozy theatre with the big man himself.
When: Until December 30th
Where: 100 Mountain Ave, Banff, AB
Time: 11 am – 8 pm
Cost: $42+
OR TASTE TEST YOUR WAY DOWN THE HOT CHOCOLATE TRAIL
Thirsty? This weekend, head to Banff and wet your whistle with 20 different hot chocolates from cafes, restaurants, bars, and convenience stores all over Banff and Lake Louise. Each drink is uniquely themed, holiday-centric, and only available for a limited time, so mark down your favourites from the list above and head out!
When: Until January 1st
Where: See locations above
STAY IN AND BINGE SOME MOVIES
From holiday classics to quirky TV specials, streaming platfors have made hours of entertainment avaialbe to us in hopes of getting everyone through the holiday season. This weeked, why not pop some corn and binge your way through the snowy weather?
VISIT THE NIKKA YUKO JAPANESE GARDEN FOR ITS HOLIDAY DISPLAY
Looking for something new? This weekend, 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
HIT THE OLYMPIC PLAZA SKATING RINK
Lace-up and hit the ice! This weekend, throw on some skates and take a lap or two around Calgary’s iconic Olympic plaza ice rink! 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
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 of Christmas!
When: Dates throughout December
Where: 4611 47 Ave, Stettler, AB
Cost: $70+
NOG YOURSELF OUT AT SIPPIN’ SANTA
Serving Xmas-themed cocktails in a variety of Christmas mugs and glasses, Sippin’ Santa has returned again this year, completely transforming Ricardo’s Hideaway on 17th with over-the-top decorations from floor to ceiling.
When: Until December 31st
Where: 1530 5 St SW, Calgary, AB
RENT A FIREPIT
Bundle up, s’more lovers. After an incredibly successful 2020, the free Calgary community fire pits will soon be back and available to the public in hopes of warming the chillier months. Check out the link above for where and how you can rent one of these bad boys!
And there you have it, friends! 10 things to do in Calgary this weekend Now get shakin! It’s going to be a busy one!
