The holidays are just around the corner and events are back! From markets to pop-ups, and twinkling celebrations, this year’s festivities, both in and outdoors, will be bigger, brighter and better than ever! Not sure where to go? Here are just a few places where you can see beautiful lights in and around Calgary this winter and at Christmas time.
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Zoolights
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Feeling sentimental? This holiday season, walk under a bed of stars and lights, grab a hot cocoa and take a seat by the fire! Zoolights is back and you won’t want to miss it – it is tradition after all!
When: Friday, November 17th, 2023 – January 7th, 2024
Where: Calgary Zoo, 210 St. George’s Drive NE
Cost: $21.95+
Nightrise
Banff is one of the most magical places on Earth and the best way to see it is from above. Starting November 18th, let Banff’s gondola take you to new heights and totally change your point of view of the Rocky Mountains! Snap a few pics, indulge in an incredible dinner at their Sky Bistro and make a few memories on the way. this event is incredible!
When: Saturday, November 18th – March 30th, 2024
Where: 100 Mountain Ave, Banff
Cost: $60+
Glow Calgary
Showcasing a million bulbs, light-loving Calgarians are encouraged to not only explore Glow’s incredible display but also their seasonal market. From food, fun and photo opportunities, roam around without freezing your butt off!
When: Thursday, December 7th – 31st, 2023
Where: 1800 Stampede Trail SE
Cost: $16+
Winter Light Festival at Nikka Yuko Garden
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Though it is best known for its green grass and flowers, Nikka Yuko is an incredible spot in the wintertime. Don’t believe us? Check it out and enjoy a magical evening of lanterns, and lights.
When: TBA
Where: Corner of 9th Ave S &, Mayor Magrath Dr. S, Lethbridge
Cost: TBA
CP Holiday Train
Choo choo1 The beloved CP Holiday Train is chugging around the country again this year and this December it’ll be back in Calgary! Bundle up and enjoy live music, lights and hot cocoa in support of Canadian food banks.
When: Saturday, December 9th, 2023
Where: Anderson C-Train Station South Parking Lo
Time: 5:45 pm
Cost: Free (donations encouraged)
Airdrie Festival of Lights
Western Canada’s largest FREE outdoor walk-through display will return to light the night this December and it’ll be just as beautiful as ever. Drink hot chocolate, take a lap around the ice rink, take photos, and cozy up next to their fire. You won’t want to miss it!
When: Friday, December 1st – 31st, 2023
Where: Nose Creek Regional Park, Airdrie, AB
Time: 6 pm – 9 pm
Cost: Free
In search of Christmas Spirit
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In Search of Christmas Spirit? Find it in Banff, where a heartwarming story will be told through colour, illumination, and music. The best part? This event is totally FREE to attend – though tickets will be required.
When: Various dates from November 17th and December 31st, 2023
Where: Cascades of Time Garden – Cave Avenue, Banff, Alberta
Time: 4:30 pm to 9:30 pm
Cost: FREE
Lions Festival of Lights
Prepare to be dazzled, Calgary! This November, grab a friend, a family member or a hot date, and take in the beautiful lights along 14th Street. Dress warm, grab a hot chocolate and enjoy Calgary’s incredible display – for free!
When: Saturday November 25th, 2023 – January 8th, 2024
Where: Confederation Golf Course – 14th Street NW, Calgary
Time: 6 pm – 12 am
Cost: Free
Chinook Blast
Celebrating culture, creativity and Calgary, Chinook Blast will return this winter! Starting in February, enjoy the very best in local art, music, theatre and recreation in addition to a number of incredible light displays that will be visible throughout the city.
Where: Various locations
When: Friday, February 2nd–19th, 2024
There you have it, friends. Places where you can see beautiful lights in and around Calgary this winter and at Christmas time. Be safe, stay warm, and enjoy!
