Photo via Banff Christmas Market / Facebook
From gifts and dinners to flights, and festive fits, the holidays can get pretty expensive. Luckily, there are a ton of fun things that’ll keep you smiling from ear to ear for less! Not sure what’s happening in the big city? Here are 12 of the best things to do for free and cheap in Calgary this December.
Grab a hand and a hot chocolate, then enjoy one of Calgary’s most incredible displays – for free! The enchanting Lions Festival of Lights takes place along 14th Street and will be fun and affordable!
When: Starts November 23rd, 2024
Where: Confederation Golf Course – 14th Street NW, Calgary
Time: 5 pm
Cost: Free
Located at the back of UNA, a popular pizza place, Frenchie Wine Bar will host Red Nose, a new pop-up bar with decor, music, and fun drinks. Enjoy!
When: Thursdays to Sundays from November 22nd – December 23rd, 2024
Where: 616 17th Avenue SW, Calgary
It’s here and it’s going to be incredible! The 2024 Zoolights have officially kicked off and you won’t want to miss this magical experience! Grab a hot chocolate and take a walk under a bed of stars and lights. It’s going to be fantastic.
When: Friday, November 15th, 2024 – January 5th, 2025
Where: Calgary Zoo, 210 St. George’s Drive NE
Time: 5 pm
Cost: $18+
Nikka Yuko has come back to life for the winter season! This month, check out the Winter Festival of Lights, a beautiful experience with lights, hot chocolate, and lanterns. This season, check it out and enjoy a magical evening.
When: Friday, November 29th, 2024 – February 28th, 2025
Where: Corner of 9th Ave S &, Mayor Magrath Dr. S, Lethbridge
Time: 5 pm – 9 pm
Cost: $13.50+
This December, Calgarians are encouraged to check out the Bearspaw Market, a magical experience with a little something for everyone! Fireworks, vendors and live music? It’s going to be an exciting event!
When: Friday, November 29th – December 1st, 6th–8th, 2024
Where: 253220 Bearspaw Road, AB
Time: Various times
Cost: $5
With decorations from floor to ceiling, guests can enjoy adorable sips at the annual Sippin’ Santa Pop-up—a festive event with music, ugly sweaters, and fun mugs hosted by Ricardo’s Hideaway.
When: Until December 31st, 2024
Where: 1530 5 St SW, Calgary, AB
Cost: Prices vary
This December, catch a series of holiday films like Elf for just $3.99 (plus applicable taxes). Get your tickets now and stay tuned for more family-friendly titles.
When: Saturdays in December
Where: See Cineplex locations near you above
Cost: $3.99
This December, head to Banff for live music, fantastic food, and charming gifts at The Banff Christmas Market. What’s better than the mountains during the holidays?
When: Friday, November 14th-16th, 22nd-24th, 29th to December 1st, 6th-8th, 2024
Where: Warner Stables, 100 Sundance Rd
Cost: $15+
Another pop-up bar! This December check out Miracle of 1st Street, which will have over-the-top decorations, music, and fun cocktails. Don’t miss out!
When: Starts Friday, November 15th, 2024
Where: 1302 1 St SW, Calgary, AB
Cost: Prices vary
This month, enjoy In Search of Christmas Spirit. Told through colour, illumination, and music this display goes along with a heartwarming story and will make for a memorable experience. The best part? Though tickets are required, this event is totally free to attend so don’t miss it!
When: Select dates from November 14th – December 31st, 2024
Where: Cascades of Time Garden – Cave Avenue, Banff, Alberta
Time: 4:30 pm to 9:30 pm
Cost: Free
Back with more action and fun, the iconic Home Alone-inspired pop-up at Eighty-Eight Brewing is unlike any others. This event will feature floor-to-ceiling decorations, festive music, and pizza so don’t miss it!
When: Tuesday, November 19th – December 29th, 2024
Where: 2600 Portland St SE #1070, Calgary
2025 is nearly here, but how will you ring it in? This December, attend a festive fireworks event held by the city of Calgary. On December 31st, those looking for something truly magical can once again enjoy fun and excitement.
When: Sunday, December 31st, 2023
Where: TBA
Time: 11:55 pm
Cost: Free
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