December is here! It’s time to set up the tree and string it with plenty of lights and baubles, bake some yummy treats and attend a festive event or two.

We’ve already compiled the ultimate holiday market and live performance lists, but this week’s roundup takes the cake for everything happening Dec. 1 to 5.

From craft markets to dome getaways, there’s lots to do in and around the city. The wintery weather is bound to make everything feel that much more jolly.

Get ready to sing Joyeux Noël. Here’s everything fun you can get up to in Calgary this week.

Sponsored pick: A Winter Getaway to the Emerald Sky Dome

Looking for a winter escape that’s straight out of a dream? Emerald Lake Lodge, located just over an hour west of Banff in beautiful Emerald Lake, has become one of Canada’s most iconic destinations due to its incredible scenery. Make your way there and discover the new Emerald Sky Dome, a glowing glass-walled dining space set amongst the snow-draped peaks of Yoho National Park.

Guests can indulge in a six-course Chef’s Tasting Menu by Chef Valerie Morrison, paired with curated wines or cocktails, before retreating to one of the lodge’s cozy cabins for the night. Follow the yellow brick road to Emerald Lake Lodge for an adventure you won’t forget.

When: Opening Dec. 2, 2025, with bookings available until March 28. Dome is offered from Tuesday to Saturday.
Time: One seating per night starting at 6 p.m.
Where: Emerald Lake Lodge, Yoho National Park
Tickets: $185 per person

Airdrie Festival of Lights

Get your glow on at the Airdrie Festival of Lights, Western Canada’s largest, free, outdoor walk-through Christmas light display that’s planned and organized by volunteers.

When: Monday, Dec. 1 to Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025
Time: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Nose Creek Park— 1691 Main St. S, Airdrie, Alta.
Tickets: Free

Sponsored pick: Coca-Cola’s Holiday Caravan Tour at Splitsville Bowl Creekside

Get ready for a festive pop-up experience. Snap pics with Santa and Coca-Cola’s iconic illuminated delivery truck, take home themed giveaways, and spin Splitsville’s prize wheel. Win free bowling, arcade vouchers, toys and more at this festive holiday event. Kids who snap a photo with Santa will even receive a reloadable arcade card, pre-loaded with 100 credits. Inside Splitsville, there’s even more fun to discover. Bowling, arcade games and a variety of delicious food and drink await. Don’t miss out!

When: Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
Time: 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Where: Splitsville Bowl Creekside Calgary — 12330 Symons Valley Rd. NW #120, Creekside Shopping Centre
Tickets: Free for the Holiday Caravan Tour; bowling is ticketed

Celebrating by Candlelight: Christmas in the Victorian Era

Wander through Lougheed House as it’s transformed for the season with elegant Victorian holiday displays. Learn the stories behind traditions like Christmas cards, tree decorating, and hanging stockings. You’ll also see fascinating festive artifacts that offer a glimpse into how the holidays were celebrated over a century ago.

When: Tuesday, Dec. 2 and Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025
Time: 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Lougheed House — 707 13th Ave. SW
Tickets: $15

Sponsored pick: Fill Our Fleet Fundraising Campaign

Get in the festive mood, start spreading the holiday cheer and donate to local food banks! When you participate in AMA Community Foundation’s Fill Our Fleet campaign before December 31, your donation will be matched up to $100,000. Make a donation online or stop by any AMA centre to join in the spirit!

When: Ongoing until Dec. 31, 2025
Where: Alberta Motor Association (AMA) locations
Cost: By donation

AE West Artist Extravaganza Showcase

Attend a free live showcase and experience the next generation of Canadian music for yourself in Calgary.

When: Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025
Time: 8 p.m.
Where: King Eddy — 438 9th Ave. SE
Cost: Free, no cover – first-come first-served

Sponsored pick: Tea with Mrs. Claus at the Calgary Farmer’s Market

Gather ’round for tea and sweets as Mrs. Claus shares heartwarming tales from the North Pole and spreads a little Christmas magic. It’s the perfect way to slow down, sip something warm, and celebrate the season with family and friends. Space is limited, so reserve your spot early for this festive favourite.

When: Dec. 6th to 7th at Calgary Farmers’ Market West; Dec. 13th to 14th at Calgary Farmers’ Market South
Time: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: 25 Greenbriar Dr. NW and 510 77th Ave. SE
Tickets: $35

Calgary Phil presents Handel’s Messiah

Hallelujah! A glorious Christmas tradition returns. Conductor Stephen Stubbs, a cast of soloists, and the Calgary Philharmonic Chorus join the Orchestra for this quintessential holiday classic. Handel’s beautiful oratorio combines music and drama in one of the greatest stories ever told.

When: Thursday, Dec. 4 to Friday, Dec. 5, 2025
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Where: Jack Singer Concert Hall — 225 8th Ave. SE
Tickets: $33+

Art Spot’s Annual Art Under $100

The Under $100 Art Show is a fast-paced, pop-up art exhibition featuring thousands of original works — all under $100 — from nearly 100 local and emerging artists.

When: Thursday, Dec. 4 to Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025
Time: Varies by date
Where: 1111 9th Ave. SW
Tickets: $15

Winter Wonderland Spa Day at MaKami College

Don’t miss your chance to get pampered this holiday season at MaKami College. MaKami will host a Winter Wonderland-themed spa experience at the Calgary campus on Friday, Dec. 5, 2025. This relaxing spa day will include light refreshments, holiday treats and a 90-minute massage with a massage therapy student.

When: Friday, Dec. 5, 2025
Time: 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Where: 3800 Memorial Dr. #1600
Tickets: $99 – call to reserve

Authentically Indigenous Holiday Art Market

Shop from over 70 Indigenous artists and makers, enjoy the music, and celebrate the season. This year, the market is lighting up The Confluence with Indigenous art, fashion, culture, and community.

When: Friday, Dec. 5 to Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025
Time: Varies by date
Where: The Confluence — 750 9th Ave. SE, Calgary
Tickets: $5 daily or $8 for a weekend pass

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Em Medland-Marchen

Em is a Staff Writer for Curiocity Calgary. They are passionate about live music, rose gardens, iced coffee, and walks along the Bow River.

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