November is flying by, is it not?! Happy Thursday, friends and congrats on making it through another week. This time around, no matter who you are, what your age is, or how much (or little) money you want to spend before the holidays, there is a ton of exciting events and activities happening around the city. Not sure where to start? Here are 10 things to do in Calgary this weekend!

HIT THE SPRUCE INTERNATIONAL CHRISTMAS MARKET 

Showcasing vendors, stunning decorations, carolers, and more, this particular festivity was sorely missed in the wake of the pandemic – but alas, it’s finally back in person! From food to their many, many photo ops – guests can get in on the merry fun for two weekends only, so don’t miss out!.

When: Friday, November 26th – 28th
Where: 18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW

STROLL CALGARY’S ZOOLIGHTS

This weekend, grab the hand of someone special, hot cocoa, a snack and take a seat by the fire at the Calgary Zoolights!! 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 – there’s plenty to do and see at this year, friends!

When: Until January 2nd
Where:210 St. George’s Drive NE
Time: 5 pm – 9 pm
Cost: $19.95

NOGG YOURSELF OUT AT A HOLIDAY POPUP 

Thirsty?? 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

WANDER THE CALGARY CHRISTMAS MARKET

The Calgary Farmers’ Market has once again turned into a winter wonderland ahead of the holiday season! With thoughtfully crafted goods from all the OG vendors you know & love, 12 additional seasonal vendors, fresh Christmas trees and tons of unreal food – the market is the perfect place to hit up this weekend to get in the holiday spirit and start crossing off your Christmas list. Plus, they’ve got tons of activities for kiddos going on too!

When: Until December 23rd
Where: Calgary Farmers Market, 510 77th Avenue SE, Calgary

OR THE INGLEWOOD HOLIDAY NIGHT MARKET

Not sure what to do this Friday? We’ve got you! For those who just can’t wait until the holidays, we suggest checking out this year’s big indoor edition of the Inglewood Night Market – because why not check it out and cross a few things off that growing Christmas gift list early?

When: Friday, November 26th
Where: 880 9th Street SE, Calgary
Time: 4 pm to 11 pm
Cost: $5

HAVE A MOUNTAINTOP CHRISTMAS 

This weekend, reach new heights with the Banff Gondola’s Mountaintop Christmas, a magical event that will knock the socks right off of your fireplace. Here, guests are invited to climb aboard one of their sky sleighs and take in the unreal mountaintop views, wildlife, and powder below. It’s truly magical!

When: Until December 9th
Where: 100 Mountain Ave, Banff, AB
Time: 11 am – 8 pm
Cost: $42+

AND WHILE YOU’RE THERE, HIT THE HOT CHOCOLATE TRAIL

Heading to Alberta’s favourite mountain town? 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: Saturday, November 20th – January 1st
Where: See locations above

GOGH BEYOND THE ART OF A GENIUS ONE LAST TIME

Thought you missed Beyond Van Gogh? Surprise! Calgarians are getting one last chance to check it out! Extended by popular demand the folks behind the exhibit want to take you one to step into the colourful world of an artistic genius. Guided by his own dreams, thoughts, and words, experience the world and art of Van Gogh as if it were the first time.

Date: Until Sunday, November 28th
Location: 1817 Crowchild Trail NW, Calgary
Cost: $35+

WANDER THE SPARKLE, SPARKLE INDOOR LIGHT EVENT 

It’s here, Calgary! Sparkle Sparkle is back for another year of magic, whimsy and light! This week, until January 2nd, those looking to get festive 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+

CATCH SAM ROBERTS BAND LIVE

Miss live music? So did we – which is why you won’t want to miss this one, folks! Saturday, November 27th check out the Sam Robers Band live at Calgary’s Palace Theatre and get back to the things you love with the people you like the most.

When Saturday, November 27th
Where: 219 8 Ave SW, Calgary
Time: TBA
Cost: $52.85

Well, there you have it, Calgary – the 10 best things to do this weekend. Now get out there and enjoy yourselves, you deserve it.