New year, new month, new beginnings and maybe some new friends! 2023 is nearly here and so are some amazing events and activities that’ll help you kick things off on the right foot. Not sure where to start?! Here are 25 exciting things to do in Calgary this January.
EVENTS
ENJOY A NEW YEAR’S DAY BRUNCH AT HERITAGE PARK
Don’t feel like making a big breakfast on New Year’s Day? We don’t blame you. On January 1st, Head over to Heritage Park and indulge in an incredible meal in celebration of the new year!
When: January 1st, 2023
Where: 1900 Heritage Dr. SW
Time: 9:30 am – 1:30 pm
Cost: $42+
EXPLORE THE LIONS PARK FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
Didn’t get your fill of dazzling lights this holiday season? From now until January 7th, 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! You won’t regret it!
When: Until January 7th, 2023
Where: Confederation Golf Course – 14th Street NW, Calgary
Time: 6 pm – 12 am
Cost: FREE
EXPLORE CALGARY ZOOLIGHTS
We’re down to the wire, Calgary! Showcasing millions of lights, activities and so much more, Zoolights is back – but only until January 8th and you’re not going to want to miss it! For more information or to purchase tickets, hit the link above!
When: Until January 8th, 2023
Where: Calgary Zoo, 210 St. George’s Drive NE
Cost: $21.95 for adults, $14.95 for children
CHECK OUT CHINOOK BLAST
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Celebrating culture, creativity and winter fun, Chinook Blast is coming in hot! This January, like so many before it, Calgarians will be encouraged to enjoy the very best in local art, music, theatre and recreation all over the city – in some cases for FREE.
When: Friday, January 27th – February 12th, 2023
Where: All over Calgary
TEE OFF AT WIZARDRY MINI-GOLF
Feeling competitive? Let loose at Potion Putt an exciting mini-golf pop-up Inspired by a wonderful world where magic, beasts and humans coexist. Good luck and have fun!
Where: Springbank Links Golf Club – 25 Hackamore Trail, Calgary
Cost: $15
‘CHILL’ WITH THE PENGUINS AT THE CALGARY ZOO
Need something to do with the kids or your animal-loving BFF? For the 11th year in a row, check out the Calgary Zoo for its spectacular Penguin Walk! This event is weather permitting, so make sure you check out their website before heading out!
When: January 13th – mid-March (weather depending)
Where: 210 St. George’s Drive NE, Calgary
Time: 10:30 am
Cost: $29.95+
OUTDOORS AND IN THE MOUNTAINS
SKATE ONE OF CALGARY’S ICE TRAILS
Looking for somewhere to go on a skate date? This month hit one of two magical ice skating trails, now open within Calgary’s city limits – just be sure to bundle up! It can be pretty cold out there.
GO TOBOGGANING
Winter is in full swing and with a nip in the air and snow on the ground, we’re ready to hit the hills! This January, bundle up and check out 10 of the best toboggan destinations in the city!
ROCK ON AT THE BIG WINTER CLASSIC
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Featuring several local and national artists, Calgary presents the 2023 Big Winter Classic – a performance series meant to keep you warm throughout the colder months! Over the course of four loud, exciting days, check out various venues around the inner city for concerts, art, and fun.
When: Wednesday, January 25th – 29th, 2023
Where: See venues above
COZY UP IN THE EAST VILLAGE HYGGE HUT
Located just off River Walk Plaza in the East Village, Calgarians looking to wind down after a long week are encouraged to check out the Hygge Hut! This Scandinavian-style spot is fitted with a cozy fireplace, a warm atmosphere and is perfect for enjoying a cup of Joe or hot cocoa.
When: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays
Where: See location here
Time: Fridays (3 pm – 6 pm) Saturdays and Sundays (12 pm – 6 pm)
Cost: FREE
GO TUBING AT WINSPORT
Not everyone is comfortable on a pair of skis – but never fear. You can still enjoy the cold air and fresh powder at Winsport! This month, bundle up and head out for an adrenaline-inducing Family Day activity. You’re going to have a blast!
Where: 88 Canada Olympic Road SW, Calgary
Time: See times above
Cost: $17 on Fridays
OR CHECK OUT CANYON SKI RESORT’S GLOW NIGHT
Prefer to take a bit of a drive? Every Thursday and Friday night, check out Canyon Ski Resorts Glow Tube Night! A must-visit if you’re looking to take in an evening of colourful lights and winter excitement.
When: Thursdays and Fridays (weather permitting)
Where: 38433 Range Road 264A, Red Deer Country, AB
Time: 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Cost: $25
GO SKATING AT OLYMPIC PLAZA
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December has come and gone but winter is going nowhere. This month, Calgarians are encouraged to check out Olympic Plaza, one of the city’s favourite (and most affordable), snowy traditions
Where: 228 8 Ave. SE, Calgary
Time: 6 pm – 11 pm
Cost: FREE
OR IN THE MOUNTAINS
Alberta is packed full of mountain skating spots that need to be on your bucket list! Not sure where to lace up your skates? Check the link above for 10 gorgeous mountain skating spots in Alberta that you should check out this winter!
TAKE A DIP IN A HOT SPRINGS
Need to wind down after the holidays? Throw on a bathing suit and head to one or all of Alberta’s beautiful hot springs! After all, there’s really nothing like it in the wintertime.
HIT UP THE CALGARY RENOVATIONS SHOW
Are you on the reno side of TikTok? If you are you’ve got to check out the Calgary Renovations show, Here guests can browse, learn and purchase everything from tiles to tools and are able to do so among like-minded folk. We’ll see you there!
When: Friday, January 13th – 15th, 2023
Where: Halls E & F, 20 Roundup Way SE
Cost: $11
WIND DOWN AT THE NORDIC SPA
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Now that the Christmas craziness is behind us, why not spend a day at the Nordic Spa where you can totally unwind, disconnect and relax? From facials and massages, this alpine sanctuary has everything you’ll need to revamp before things pick right back up for 2023.
Where: 1 Centennial Dr, Kananaskis
Cost: Prices vary
ARTS, CONCERTS, SPORTS & CULTURE
SEE AN OFFICE-THEMED POP-ROCK PARODY
When was the last time you had a good belly laugh? This January, Calgarians can check out Jubilation Dinner Theatre’s Office-themed Pop Rock Parody, a musical based on the beloved TV show starring comedy royalty. For more information or to get your tickets now, check out the link above!
When: Until January 14th, 2023
Where: 1002 – 37th Street SW Calgary
Cost: $69.95+
WATCH A FLAMES GAME
Toss on a jersey and head over to the Saddledome where you’re encouraged to grab a pocket dog and a beer, then cheer the Flames to victory. For their January schedule head to the link above.
When: Various dates
Where: 555 Saddledome Rise SE
Cost: Varies
OR A CALGARY HITMEN GAME
Can’t get enough of Canada’s greatest game? This month, you can also watch as the Calgary Hitmen take on WHL greats at the Scotiabank Saddledome! ‘Tis the season for hockey!
When: Sunday, January 1st, 13th, 15th, 20th, 22nd and 29th, 2023
Where: 555 Saddledome Rise SE, Calgary
Cost: $16+
CATCH THE HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS WORLD TOUR
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Are you a basketball fan? This month, watch as the original Harlem Globetrotters demonstrate skill, showmanship and speed at the Scotiabank Saddledome. It’s going to be unreal!
When: Saturday, January 7th, 2023
Where: 555 Saddledome Rise SE, Calgary
Time: 3 pm
Cost: $26+
GET INTO THE ‘HEROIC’ SPIRIT
While some would say that it’s really the actor, producer or set that makes a movie – we’d argue it’s the soundtrack, This month, listen while the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra celebrates the legends and heroes of Hollywood’s film industry: the composers of Star Wars, The Mandalorian, Indiana Jones and more.
When: Friday, January 13th – 14, 2023
Where: 225 8 Ave SE, Calgary
Time: 7:30 pm
Cost: $25+
CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS
From artisan crafts and food trucks to art performances and demonstrations – Calgary’s Chinese Cultural Centre presents its annual New Year’s Celebration! Mingle, mix, give and party – it’s going to be beautiful!
When: January 14th, 15th, 21st and 22nd, 2023
Where: Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre, 197 First Street SW, Calgary
Cost: FREE
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN A CHILDHOOD CLASSIC
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Haven’t been to the Science Centre in a while? This month check out the Goodnight Moon immersive experience! Never before shown in a digital gallery – each presentation will actually pull Calgarians into the story where they can interact with characters and images from the author’s wholesome universe.
Where: 220 St. George’s Drive NE, Calgary
Cost: $26+
CHECK OUT THE NATIONAL MUSIC CENTRE
Looking to learn something this month? Hit the National Music Centre for interactive exhibits, fun facts and stunning architecture. You’re going to have a rockin’ time.
Where: 850 4 St SE, Calgary, AB
There you have it. 25 things to do in Calgary this January. What did we say, folks? Pretty great stuff, hey?!
