Photo via Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site
The weekend’s almost here! It’s the last month of the year, and we’re already gearing up for a holly jolly Christmas. But whether or not you’re in the mood for some Christmas cheer, we’ve got an awesome roundup of events to keep you busy.
From light shows to ice walks, there’s a ton to do in and around Calgary, and only three days to get ‘er done. Take a look at the best of the best in and around Calgary this Dec. 5 to 7 weekend.
40,000+ lights are strung across 12 acres at the Atlas Coal Mine for a truly unique rural Albertan experience. The Badlands’ dark skies and brilliant stars make this light show one of the best in Alberta.
When: Dec. 5 to Dec. 13, 2025
Time: 5 to 8:30 p.m.
Where: 110th Century Dr. W., East Coulee, Alta.
Cost: $12.50
Bring out that made-in-Canada Christmas wishlist! More than 225 artisans, makers and designers from across the country will set up shop at the U of A Butterdome from Dec. 4 to 7 for Alberta’s largest holiday craft market. Celebrating 35 years, the Butterdome Craft Sale gives Edmontonians a one-of-a-kind chance to support local small businesses, celebrate diverse Canadian heritage, and, in the time of tariffs and shipping delays, put their money where it counts.
When: Dec. 4 to Dec. 7, 2025
Time: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Butterdome, U of A — 87th Ave. and 114th St., Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: $10
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
Market Collective exists to showcase the works of artists, artisans, designers, and musicians and to strengthen the community of Calgary.
When: Friday, Dec. 5 to Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025 and Friday, Dec. 12 to Sunday, Dec. 15, 2025
Time: Varies by date
Where: BMO Centre, Hall D — 20 Roundup Way SE
Tickets: $10
The confluence of the Bow and Elbow rivers has been a place of gathering since time immemorial. Join Knowledge Keeper Travis Rider from Mînî Thnî around the fire where the rivers meet for a morning of captivating and educational tales. From stories about his life to tales from Stoney Nakoda culture, don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of the diverse Indigenous cultures that make up Treaty 7.
When: Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
Time: 11 a.m. to noon
Where: The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland — 750 9th Ave. SE
Tickets: $25
You’re invited to celebrate, laugh and be jolly for the 11th annual community tree lighting. Enjoy festivities including firepits, carolers, a hot cider and beer garden from Cold Garden, and a special visit from Santa.
When: Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
Time: 2 to 6 p.m.
Where: 5th Street Square — 5th St. and 7th Ave. SE
Tickets: By donation
Michaels stores across the country are hosting free creative in-store events every Saturday in December from 1 to 3 p.m. Participants will receive everything they need to paint their own personalized wooden ornament with step-by-step creative guidance from Michaels instructors.
When: Every Saturday from Dec. 6 to 20, 2026
Time: 1 to 3 p.m.
Where: Michaels locations across Canada
Tickets: Free
Enjoy authentic Tibetan handmade arts and crafts at the Glamorgan Community Hall.
When: Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Glamorgan Community Hall — 4207 41st Ave. SW
Tickets: Free
Hike on a frozen creek, and explore surreal rock formations and indigenous wall art on this small-group tour through Grotto Canyon.
When: Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, to Saturday, April 11, 2026
Time: 8:30 a.m.
Where: Grotto Canyon — Bighorn No. 8, Alta.
Tickets: Free
Big things are coming to the Olympic Oval this December. They’re decking the rink for the Sleigh the Halls: Holiday Market, which includes a skate with Santa!
When: Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
Time: Noon to 5 p.m.
Where: Olympic Oval — 288 Collegiate Blvd. NW, Calgary
Tickets: Free to $10
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