There’s snow on the ground, sun in the sky and 3 days of excitement coming your way! Happy Thursday and congratulations on making it through another busy week. This time around, there’s plenty to put a pep in your step – but it won’t be easy to pick just one! From the return of Zoolights to sporting events and concerts, here are 10 things to do in Calgary this week.
Zoolights
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It’s back and it’s lit! This weekend, admire millions of enchanting lights strung through the trees at the Calgary Zoo, grab a hot cocoa, a snack and take a seat by the fire and enjoy! It’s going to be magical.
When: Friday, November 17th, 2023 – January 7th, 2024
Where: Calgary Zoo, 210 St. George’s Drive NE
Cost: $21.95+
Inglewood Night Market
Shop until you drop… after dark! This Friday, Calgarians will be encouraged to wander the Inglewood Night Market! From art and accessories to clothing and food, why not check it out and cross a few things off that growing Christmas gift list early?
When: Friday, November 17th, 18th, 24th, 25th and December 1st and 2nd, 2023
Where: Crossroads Farmers Market. 1235 26 Ave SE, Calgary
Time: 5 pm – 10 pm
Cost: $5
Sponsored pick: Light Up Okotoks
Light Up Okotoks is back for another year and it’s transformed the town into a charming, winter wonderland! Come to the downtown core on Friday, November 17, for wagon rides, warm fire pits, choir performances, late-night shopping, holiday markets, and more! The Christmas tree lighting kicks off at 7 PM at the Olde Towne Plaza, and the whole event wraps up with a dazzling fireworks finale at 9 PM in Lineham Park. Bring your hats and mittens, and get ready for some Hallmark-movie-tier fun!
When: Friday, November 17 at 6:30 PM
Where: Old Towne Plaza, 50 McRae St, Okotoks
Cost: free to attend
Banff Hot Chocolate Trail
The sweetest trail in Alberta! This weekend, head to Banff and wet your whistle with 20 different hot chocolates from cafes, restaurants, bars, and convenience stores all over Banff and Lake Louise. Each drink is uniquely themed, holiday-centric, and only available for a limited time. You won’t want to miss it!
When: Friday, November 17th – December 31st, 2023
Where: Various locations
Cost: Prices vary
Calgary Hitmen
Craving a pocket dog? This weekend, cheer on the Calgary Hitmen as they take on the Red Deer Rebels in the iconic Scotiabank Saddledome! The very best part? Tickets are affordable – so check them out!
When: Friday, November 17th, 2023
Where: 555 Saddledome Rise SE, Calgary
Cost: $17+
Sponsored Pick: Innovation Week YYC
Get ready to dive into the excitement of Innovation Week, where thousands of folks from across Calgary will come together for a fantastic celebration of all things tech and innovation in Calgary! Mark your calendars from November 15 to 23 for an exhilarating lineup of experiences, showcases, panels and workshops. Join like-minded folks to learn, connect, and party as we cheer on the city’s tech advancements!
When: November 15-23
Where: All around Calgary
Banff Christmas Market
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As if you needed another excuse to hit the mountains this weekend, Banff’s Christmas Market is back! Interested? Visit the Warner stables for live music, fantastic food, charming gifts, pieces of artwork, and more created and offered by the locals. It’s going to be enchanting!
When: Friday, November 17th-19th, November 24th-26th and December 1st-3nd, 2023
Where: Warner Stables, 100 Sundance Rd
Cost: $15+
Miracle on 1st Street
Thirsty for something festive? Serving Xmas-themed cocktails in a variety of Christmas mugs and glasses, Miracle of 1st Street has returned and will completely transform Calgary’s Proof cocktail bar with over-the-top decorations from floor to ceiling Don’t miss out!
When: Wednesday, November 15th, 2023
Where: 1302 1 St SW, Calgary, AB
Cost: Prices vary
Nightrise
It’s back! 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+
Sponsored Pick: CF Winterville at CF Market Mall and CF Chinook Centre
The holiday season is hitting malls across Canada, and that can only mean one thing… Santa pictures! Put on your toothiest smile and head down to CF Market Mall or CF Chinook Centre from Friday, November 17th until Sunday, December 24th, to get your pictures with the big jolly man in red. Celebrate the season with 5 digital photos for only $15, but book your visit soon because Santa’s schedule is filling up fast!
When: Friday, November 17 until Sunday, December 24
Where:
- CF Market Mall, 3625 Shaganappi Trail NW
- CF Chinook Centre, 6455 Macleod Trail
Cost: $15 for groups up to 6
Sippin’ Santa
Can’t get enough of the many holiday popups in Calgary? We’ve got one more for your list! With tropical decorations and Christmas lights from floor to ceiling, guests can enjoy holly cocktails at Sippin’ Santa, a festive event with music, ugly sweaters, and fun mugs.
When: Thursday, November 16th – December 31st, 2023
Where: 1530 5 St SW, Calgary, AB
Cost: Prices vary
Metric
Known for smash hits like Gimme Sympathy and Breathing Underwater, Metric will take the Grey Eagle in Calgary this Friday. For more information and tickets, check out the link above.
When: Friday, November 17th, 2023
Where: The Grey Eagle – 3777 Grey Eagle Dr, Calgary
Time: 8 pm
Cost: $87+
There you have it! The 10 best things to do in Calgary this weekend. Now get out there and enjoy yourselves, you deserve it.
