Categories: Things To Do

A glimmering festival of lights will begin this weekend in Calgary

Photo via Lions Festival of Lights

It’s the perfect time of year to wander through Confederation Park. There are snow-capped trees and cross-country ski paths, birds and other wildlife, plus frozen duck ponds. Starting Nov. 22, it will also be lit up by volunteers from the community for the annual Lions Festival of Lights.

In its 39th year, Confederation Park will feature thousands of holiday lights designed to bring some Christmas cheer to the Calgary northwest. Lions from Calgary, along with members of the community, donate their time to construct and set up the displays each year.

It couldn’t happen without volunteers, and this free public installation is accessible to everyone, which makes it a beloved pillar of the community.

What to expect

The Festival of Lights will glow in Confederation Park from Nov. 23 to Jan. 8, 2026. But you can also experience a grand opening celebration on Nov. 22 — and even the mayor has been invited.

These holiday lights will sparkle throughout the park from 5:30 p.m. to midnight. There are classic Christmas themes, snowmen, and other yuletide cheer to see, all lit up in brilliant colours.

“Besides giving everyone in Calgary some Christmas cheer we do this to give back to our city,” the group says on their website. “Calgarians donate time and money to the Lions each and every year and this is one of our ways of saying thank you!”

Time to give back

You can feel the love put into these displays yourself by heading to Confederation Park this winter. If you’re keen to participate, the Lions are also seeking volunteers to help install the displays. You can take part in an installation workshop until Nov. 23 with coffee and lunch provided each day.

If you’re looking for a way to spread some Christmas cheer, this is the perfect opportunity. Whether you want to help out or just enjoy the lights this year, it will all take place at Confederation Park.

Don’t forget to bring your camera!