The holiday season brings a variety of festive events and activities to Calgary and surrounding areas. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, a romantic date idea, or a way to enjoy Calgary's winter wonderland, there’s something for everyone this month.
1. Zoolights at the Calgary Zoo (Now–January 5)
Location: Calgary Zoo
Enjoy one of Calgary's most magical holiday traditions. The Calgary Zoo is transformed into a winter wonderland with over 2 million lights, holiday-themed displays, and plenty of activities for the whole family. Don't miss the chance to visit with Santa and take part in the festive spirit!
2. Visit Christmas Markets (ex. Market Collective - December 6–8 and December 13–15
Location: BMO Centre, Stampede Park
This European-inspired market is a must-visit for those looking for unique gifts, delicious food, and the perfect holiday atmosphere. From handmade crafts to seasonal treats, it’s a great place to get into the holiday spirit.
3. Ice Skating at Olympic Plaza (Ongoing)
Location: Olympic Plaza
Enjoy free outdoor ice skating right in downtown Calgary at the Olympic Plaza. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned skater, it's a fantastic way to enjoy the winter weather and take in the beauty of the city’s skyline.
4. Winter Light Festival (December 1–31)
Location: Various locations in Calgary
The Winter Light Festival showcases beautiful light installations and displays across Calgary, brightening up the long nights of winter. Visit different neighbourhoods to experience the city's festive spirit in full display.
5. The Nutcracker at the Alberta Ballet (December 13–24)
Location: Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
Experience the magic of Tchaikovsky’s classic holiday ballet, "The Nutcracker," performed by the Alberta Ballet. With stunning choreography and beautiful music, this is a perfect family outing or a romantic evening.
6. Once Upon a Christmas at Heritage Park (December 7–22 - Saturdays/Sundays)
Location: Heritage Park Historical Village
Heritage Park brings Christmas to life with its heritage-style market, horse-drawn wagon rides, and festive programming. It’s a wonderful way to experience Calgary’s history while embracing the holiday cheer.
7. Snow Days at WinSport (December 1–February 28)
Location: WinSport, Canada Olympic Park
Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy Snow Days at WinSport. Whether you want to try skiing, snowboarding, or tubing, this winter wonderland is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures during the holidays.
8. Visit the Mountains!
Take a day trip out to Banff, Canmore or Lake Louise for a ski day, dog sledding, Christmas markets, hot springs, a gondola ride, etc. It’s a great way to escape into nature before the holidays!
9. Calgary’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks Show (December 31)
Location: Downtown Calgary
Ring in the new year with a spectacular fireworks display in downtown Calgary! Gather with friends and family to enjoy this annual tradition and celebrate the beginning of 2024.
With so much to see and do, Calgary truly comes alive during the holiday season. Whether you're enjoying the magic of Zoolights, gliding across Olympic Plaza, or venturing into the mountains for a winter escape, there’s no shortage of festive cheer to brighten your December. Embrace the season, make lasting memories, and celebrate the holidays in the vibrant spirit of Calgary and its surrounding areas. Happy holidays!
1. Zoolights at the Calgary Zoo (Now–January 5)
Location: Calgary Zoo
Enjoy one of Calgary's most magical holiday traditions. The Calgary Zoo is transformed into a winter wonderland with over 2 million lights, holiday-themed displays, and plenty of activities for the whole family. Don't miss the chance to visit with Santa and take part in the festive spirit!
2. Visit Christmas Markets (ex. Market Collective - December 6–8 and December 13–15
Location: BMO Centre, Stampede Park
This European-inspired market is a must-visit for those looking for unique gifts, delicious food, and the perfect holiday atmosphere. From handmade crafts to seasonal treats, it’s a great place to get into the holiday spirit.
3. Ice Skating at Olympic Plaza (Ongoing)
Location: Olympic Plaza
Enjoy free outdoor ice skating right in downtown Calgary at the Olympic Plaza. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned skater, it's a fantastic way to enjoy the winter weather and take in the beauty of the city’s skyline.
4. Winter Light Festival (December 1–31)
Location: Various locations in Calgary
The Winter Light Festival showcases beautiful light installations and displays across Calgary, brightening up the long nights of winter. Visit different neighbourhoods to experience the city's festive spirit in full display.
5. The Nutcracker at the Alberta Ballet (December 13–24)
Location: Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
Experience the magic of Tchaikovsky’s classic holiday ballet, "The Nutcracker," performed by the Alberta Ballet. With stunning choreography and beautiful music, this is a perfect family outing or a romantic evening.
6. Once Upon a Christmas at Heritage Park (December 7–22 - Saturdays/Sundays)
Location: Heritage Park Historical Village
Heritage Park brings Christmas to life with its heritage-style market, horse-drawn wagon rides, and festive programming. It’s a wonderful way to experience Calgary’s history while embracing the holiday cheer.
7. Snow Days at WinSport (December 1–February 28)
Location: WinSport, Canada Olympic Park
Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy Snow Days at WinSport. Whether you want to try skiing, snowboarding, or tubing, this winter wonderland is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures during the holidays.
8. Visit the Mountains!
Take a day trip out to Banff, Canmore or Lake Louise for a ski day, dog sledding, Christmas markets, hot springs, a gondola ride, etc. It’s a great way to escape into nature before the holidays!
9. Calgary’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks Show (December 31)
Location: Downtown Calgary
Ring in the new year with a spectacular fireworks display in downtown Calgary! Gather with friends and family to enjoy this annual tradition and celebrate the beginning of 2024.
With so much to see and do, Calgary truly comes alive during the holiday season. Whether you're enjoying the magic of Zoolights, gliding across Olympic Plaza, or venturing into the mountains for a winter escape, there’s no shortage of festive cheer to brighten your December. Embrace the season, make lasting memories, and celebrate the holidays in the vibrant spirit of Calgary and its surrounding areas. Happy holidays!