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Our Guide to the Holidays

Take the 'brr' out of winter - celebrate the season and cure your family’s cabin fever with events,  activities, and holiday fun! 

OUTDOOR FUN

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING & SNOWSHOEING - GROOMED AREAS IN CALGARY

Bowness Park: 8900 48 Avenue NW

Confederation Golf Course: 3204 Collingwood Drive NW

Lakeview Golf Course: 5840 19 Street SW

Maple Ridge Golf Course: 1240 Mapleglade Drive SE

McCall Lake Golf Course: 1600 32 Avenue NE

North Glenmore Park: North Glenmore Park Road SW

Shaganappi Point Golf Course: 1200 26 Street SW

South Glenmore Park: 90 Avenue and 24 Street SW

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING & SNOWSHOEING - UNGROOMED AREAS IN CALGARY

Edworthy Park: 5050 Spruce Drive SW

Fish Creek Provincial Park: 15979 Bow Bottom Trail SE

Weaselhead Natural Environment Park: 66 Avenue & 37 Street SW

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING & SNOWSHOEING - OUTSIDE OF CALGARY

Some ski areas now charge trail user fees; check before you go!

Bearberry Nordic Centre (near Sundre)

Canmore Nordic Centre

Cascade Valley

Emerald Lake/Field Trails

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise - Lake Louise Loop, Moraine Lake

Lake Louise

Mount Shark

Peter Lougheed Park

Pipestone

Pocaterra

Ribbon Creek

Sandy McNabb (west of Diamond Valley)

Smith Dorrien

Spray Valley Provincial Park - Mount Shark Trail

Tunnel Mountain

West Bragg Creek - Mountain Road, Crystal Line, Sundog Loop, Iron Creek, Mountain View Trail

OUTDOOR SKATING RINKS

Barb Scott Park: 12 Avenue & 9 Street SW

Big Marlborough Park: 6033 Madigan Drive NE

Bowness Park Lagoon and New Ice Trail (rentals available): 8900 48 Avenue NW

Carburn Park: 67 Riverview Drive SE

Lot Six - Pop Up Rink: 311 8 Street SW

North Glenmore Park (rentals available): 7305 Crowchild Trail SW

Olympic Plaza (rentals available): 228 8 Avenue SE

Prairie Winds Park: 223 Castleridge Boulevard NE

Prince’s Island Lagoon: 4 Street & 1 Avenue SW

Thomson Family Park: 1236 16 Avenue SW

West Confederation Park: 2019 Chicoutimi Drive NW

City of Calgary Adopt-a-Rink Volunteer Program is a winter volunteer program through which volunteers help flood and maintain more than 70 existing community pleasure skating rinks throughout Calgary.

TOBOGGANING & SLEDDING

NE QUADRANT

Big Marlborough Park Dry Pond: 755 Madeira Drive NE

Deerfoot Athletic Park: 1503 16 Avenue NE

Marlborough Community Association: 636 Marlborough Way NE

Monterey Park: 2707 Catalina Boulevard NE

Prairie Winds Park: 223 Castleridge Boulevard NE

Rundle Dry Pond: 4120 Rundlehorn Drive NE

Thorncliffe/Greenview: 5600 Centre Street NE

NW QUADRANT

Confederation Park: 2807 10 Street NW

Hidden Valley: 10504 Hidden Valley Drive NW

Royal Oak: 9100 Royal Birch Boulevard NW

St. Andrew’s Heights: 2504 13 Avenue NW

SE QUADRANT

McKenzie Towne: 160 McKenzie Towne Drive SE

New Brighton: 1750 New Brighton Drive SE

Maple Ridge Dry Pond: 1127 Mapleglade Drive SE

SW QUADRANT

Bridlewood: 26 Bridleglen Road SW

Glendale Park: 2225 45 Street SW

Kingsland Dry Pond: 505 78 Avenue SW

Richmond Green: 2539 33 Avenue SW

Sacramento Dry Pond: 10404 Sacramento Drive SW

Scarboro: 1737 14 Avenue SW

Signal Hill: 2063 Sirocco Drive SW

Stanley Park: 330 42 Avenue SW

 

Holiday Fun

November 15 to January 5; ZOOLIGHTS at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo. ZOOLIGHTS, presented by Olympia Trust Company, is bigger, brighter, and bolder with over one million lights and close to 250 light figures. Immerse yourself in an array of lights, including new light displays such as Lemur Tales and The Festive Forest, making for the perfect photo opp, date night or night out with friends and family! Learn more at calgaryzoo.com.

November 29 to December 31; The Rotary Festival of Trees. A magical event happening throughout the month of December in the Malcolm Hotel in Canmore. Imagine an indoor forest of Christmas trees decorated and twinkling all in one place, all created and donated by local businesses. Learn more at rotaryfestivaloftrees.ca.

November 30, 10am to 4pm; Disney Fans’ Holiday Celebration. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just love a good Disney movie, this event is perfect for all ages. Get ready for fun activities, photo opportunities with your favorite characters, and stock up on Disney-themed treasures at New Horizon Mall. Learn more at newhorizonmall.com.

Opening in December; WinSport Tube Park. This tube park is one of the largest in Western Canada and is the perfect activity to spend some time outdoors with your family. Purchase advance tickets at winsport.ca.

December 1, 9 to 11am; The Stocking Stuffer Holiday Walk/Run. The Stocking Stuffer Holiday Walk/Run is a fun 5km-ish Christmas kick-off event at Bowness Park where you collect items along the route for your stockings. Upon completion everyone will receive a Christmas medal (that also doubles as a Christmas ornament), a donut from Hoopla Donuts, hot apple cider and some amazing holiday memories. Learn more at rnrpremierevents.com.

December 1 to 14; Legacy Lights 2024. Walk through a stunning array of over one million lights and displays. Legacy will be one of the brightest places in Calgary for you and your family to enjoy this holiday season. Drive through the community, tour a decorated show home or bundle up and take a walk along the many lit-up streets, parks and through tunnels of lights. Learn more at legacylife.ca.

December 1 to 31, 6 to 9pm; Airdrie Festival of Lights. Located in Airdrie’s Nose Creek Park, the Airdrie Festival of Lights is a beautiful, outdoor walk-through lights experience. Visit Santa’s Gift Shop near the entrance to find high-quality and whimsical gifts for yourself, your family and your friends. Learn more at airdrielights.com.

Weekends December 6 to 27; Christmas Light Drive Through at Spruce Meadows. This display features hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights totaling over 50km in length strung up around the grounds. Learn more at sprucemeadows.com.

December 7, 11am to 3pm; Santa Comes to Lougheed House. Visit Lougheed House in its fully decorated glory for a free drop-in day. The day includes DIY pet and family photos with Santa (bring your own phone/camera), holiday crafts and activities, and exploring the beautiful Christmas decor. Learn more at lougheedhouse.com.

December 7 to 22; Once Upon a Christmas at Heritage Park. Visit Heritage Park for outdoor and indoor family activities, Christmas carolers, visits with Santa, and a Christmas market. Learn more at heritagepark.ca.

December 8, 10am to 4pm; Join Rümi, ATCOenergy and Blue Flame Kitchen for a festive holiday celebration at ATCO Park. Enjoy storytime with Mrs. Claus, make a Christmas craft, decorate a Christmas cookie, and enjoy fireside carolers and treats from the cafe before getting a photo with Santa himself – we heard he’s bringing his reindeer with him! Learn more at home.rumi.ca.

December 14, 6:30 to 7:15pm; CPKC Holiday Train. A chance to experience the decorated train, live holiday music, and community celebration, all while supporting the Calgary Food Bank. This is a festive way to celebrate the holidays while benefiting a local charity. Learn more at cpkcr.com.

Until December 15; Kirks Alpaca Farm Photos with Santa. Looking for unique Santa photos this year? Why not include an alpaca? The cost is $30 per person and includes access to the farm, the opportunity to feed the animals, hot chocolate, and one digital photo. Learn more at kirksalpacafarm.ca.

Until January 1; Banff Gondola Mountaintop Christmas. ‘Tis the season of magic and wonder in Banff. The Banff Gondola transforms into a magical winter wonderland complete with opportunity to take a photo with Santa and other Christmas delights. Learn more at banffjaspercollection.com.

Until January 8; Lions Festival of Lights. For many Calgary families, the visit to the Lions' annual light display marks the beginning of the Christmas season. Located on the east side of the Confederation Golf Course, you'll find thousands of glowing lights displayed in beautiful Christmas themes at Confederation Park. Learn more at lionsfestivaloflights.ca.

Until March 31; Nightrise. Sulphur Mountain’s summit is transformed through four digital art installations. Vibrant lighting, multimedia effects, video projections, and music bring the mountaintop to life in a new and unexpected way. Learn more at banffjaspercollection.com.

 

Holiday Markets, Craft Fairs & Art Sales

November 29 to 30 and December 6 to 8; Saskatoon Farm Christmas Market. Explore over 400 local vendors on two festive weekends at the eighth annual Saskatoon Farm Christmas Market. Learn more at saskatoonfarm.com.

November 29 to December 1; The Mom Market. More than 150 local vendors, free entry, live music and much more at BMO Centre. Learn more atthemommarketco.com.

Weekends until November 30, 5 to 9pm; Inglewood Night Market. Mark your calendars for great vendors, seasonal fun and more. Learn more at inglewoodnightmarket.ca.

November 30, 9:30am to 3:30pm; Marlborough Community Association Craft Market. Get ready for a fantastic day brimming with creativity, inspiration, and crafty fun that you won’t want to miss. Wander through a vibrant marketplace filled with unique handmade treasures, perfect for holiday gifts or treating yourself. Learn more at calgarymarlborough.com.

November 30, 10am to 3pm; Ranchlands Community Association Christmas Market. The RCA is presenting the Christmas Market, so make sure to shop local this holiday season. This event is limited to vendors selling handmade items only so there will be tons of unique and one-of-a-kind items, perfect for that “hard to shop for” person on your gift list. Learn more at ranchlandscommunity.com.

November 30, 10am to 4pm; Haysboro Winter Market. Shop the Haysboro Winter Market for home businesses and artisan vendors. You can make your Christmas shopping a little easier at Haysboro Community Hall. Learn more at haysboro.org.

November 30, 10am to 4pm; Rocky Ridge Ranch HOA Holiday Market. If you are looking for unique gifts to give away during the holiday season, be sure to check out the Rocky Ridge Ranch Homeowners’ Association’s Holiday Market. They will have a variety of local vendors selling a wide array of handmade treasures like crafts, baked goods, greeting cards, stained glass sun catchers, knit and crochet items, jewelry, and more. Learn more at rrrha.ca.

November 30 to December 1, 10am to 5pm; Authentically Indigenous Holiday Craft Market. Come to visit this annual holiday craft show with a unique twist at the Kerby Centre. The Authentically Indigenous Craft Show ‘Holiday Edition’ features unique Indigenous artist vendors from the Calgary and Treaty 7 area of Southern Alberta. Here you’ll find handmade crafts, art, jewelry, food, and more. Learn more at authenticallyindig.com.

November 30 to December 1, 10am to 4pm; AZURIDGE Magic+ Merry Christmas Market. With a theme of Magic and Merry, this event will bring the joy of Christmas back to our city. There will be something for everyone at this festive market, including Santa and his reindeer, and sleigh rides. Learn more at azuridgehotel.com.

November 30 and December 7; Little Modern Market: Holiday Market. Shop local for the holidays at the Little Modern Market: Holiday Market, featuring free face paint, glitter tattoos for the kids, and be sure to snap a photo in front of the beautiful holiday settings at First Alliance Church. Learn more at littlemodernmarket.com.

November 30 to December 15; Granary Road Christmas Market. Experience the magic of the holidays with the Christmas Market at Granary Road. Shop local vendors in the beautiful surroundings of the Foothills located between Okotoks and South Calgary. Learn more at granaryroad.com.

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, until December 1; Spruce Meadows International Christmas Market. The market boasts an enviable line-up of exquisite gifts and treats for the whole family. With more than 200 independent local businesses, the market prides itself on a unique shopping experience. Learn more at sprucemeadows.com.

December 1, 10am to 4pm; Wildflower Art Salon & Sale. At the Wildflower Art Salon & Sale you will be immersed with art in every direction. Experience a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. At the Salon you will find paintings, fibre art, hand-pulled prints, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry, drawing, glass work and more. Learn more at wildflowersalon.ca.

December 1, 10am to 4pm; Calgary Video Game Collectors Show: Holiday Market. Calgary's largest video game market is back in time for the holidays. It has over 60 vendor tables of video games, art, and all-around geeky goodness. It’s the one-stop shopping experience for the gamer in your life at Acadia Recreation Complex.

December 1, 11am to 4pm; Barn Artisan Market Christmas Market. Sleigh bells ring, are you listening? That's the sound of all the local vendors getting ready for the Barn Artisan Market’s annual Christmas Market. Find that perfect gift for your friends and family, and even something for yourself. Learn more at thebarnartisanmarket.ca.

December 1 to 31, 6 to 9pm; Santa’s Gift Shop at Airdrie Festival of Lights. Located in Airdrie’s Nose Creek Park, the Airdrie Festival of Lights is a beautiful, outdoor walk-through lights experience. Visit Santa’s Gift Shop near the entrance to find high-quality and whimsical gifts for yourself, your family and your friends. Learn more at airdrielights.com.

December 5, 5 to 9pm; U/D Night Market - Holiday Edition. Join in Central Commons Park for a festive winter evening filled with local artisan booths, entertainment and so much more. Discover beautiful crafts, delicious food and warm fire pits. Learn more at myuniversitydistrict.ca.

December 6, 4 to 6pm; European Village Christmas Market. Get everything you need for under the tree and enjoy Christmas carolers, blacksmith demonstrations, outdoor fireplaces at horse-drawn wagons at Bearspaw Lifestyle Centre. Learn more at bearspawlc.ca.

Weekends December 6 to 15; Market Collective’s Holiday Series. Enjoy live music, interactive workshops, galleries, more than 150 local vendors and special surprises at the BMO Centre. Learn more at marketcollective.ca.

December 7, 10am to 2pm; Northwest Parade of Markets. Tuscany Residents Association will be joining the Communities of Rockland Park and Scenic Acres to offer three amazing markets on the same day. Attendees will be able to collect stamps in their “passports” from all three locations and enter to win a prize for attending all three. Learn more at tuscany-connect.com.

December 7, 10am to 3pm; North Glenmore Park Community Association Holiday Craft Market. Check out this holiday craft market featuring 50 local vendors selling handmade items. Learn more at ngpca.ca.

December 7, 10am to 4pm; SCA Community Association Christmas Craft Fair. There will be 50 vendors offering unique, handmade gifts and much more. Learn more at scacalgary.ca.

December 7, 10am to 4pm; Cavalry FC Christmas Market. The Cavalry FC Regional Fieldhouse is hosting their annual Christmas Market. Support local while you take care of your holiday shopping with an exciting lineup of “make, bake and grow” vendors. Learn more at cavsfcregionalfieldhouse.com.

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, until December 8; Banff Christmas Market. With more than 80 artisanal vendors, live music, an outdoor fire lounge, Santa’s House and Reindeer Stables, Christmas treats, and warm drinks, there is something for the whole family at Warner Stables. Learn more at banffchristmasmarket.com.

December 8, 11am to 4pm; YYC Small Business Winter Market. Discover a curated collection of unique gifts, products, and services from local entrepreneurs and small business owners. From handcrafted goods to delicious treats, there's something for everyone. Learn more at yycsmallbusinessmarket.my.canva.site.

December 8, 6 to 9pm; ATCO Presents: Santa’s Holiday Sleigh List. It’s time for Santa to take flight! The sleigh has been shined, primed and is ready to go, but wait, there’s one thing left to do, Santa’s holiday sleigh list needs to be finished. Will the elves all agree on what should make the sleigh list and get it streaming by the big night? Find out at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. Learn more at ticketmaster.ca.

December 8, 9:30am to 4pm; Peak to Prairie Holiday Market. The Peak to Prairie Holiday Market returns, supporting local vendors and charities. Enjoy free parking, easy access from the Trans-Canada Highway, large aisles for strollers, and a variety of local vendors at WinSport. Learn more at peaktoprairiemarket.com.

December 11, 11am to 4pm; New Horizon Christmas Craft Market. New Horizon Mall in partnership with Kay’s Hairstyling & Consulting are excited to be hosting the Annual Christmas Craft Fair. With over 50 vendors on site, entertainment, door prizes and more you will want to save the date to get a head start on your holiday shopping. Learn more at newhorizonmall.com.

December 14 to 15; 10am to 4pm; Cochrane Made Christmas Farmers’ Market. Two days on two floors makes for a great shopping experience at Spray Lakes Sawmills Family Sports Centre. You will find many of your favorite vendors from the summer market plus many more seasonal artisans selected to make this a “must-attend” event. Learn more at cochranefarmersmarket.ca.

Until December 15; Countryside Holiday Market. Shop local vendors in a unique retail space throughout the holiday season at Countryside Tree Farms & Landscaping. Learn more at eventbrite.com.

Until December 20; Festive Foothills Art Sale at Leighton Art Centre. Fine craft and artworks by local artists will be featured in the galleries of the historic Leighton home. Learn more at leightoncentre.org.

December 20, 5 to 9pm; The Pop-Up Holiday Market in Cochrane. Support local this holiday season by buying unique handmade gifts at Cochrane Lions Club and Events Centre.

 

Holiday Performances

November 26 to December 29; Alberta Theatre Projects Presents: Charlotte’s Web. One of the most popular productions in ATP’s history, E.B. White’s heartwarming classic about the unlikely friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a spider called Charlotte is returning to the Martha Cohen stage. Learn more at albertatheatreprojects.com.

November 29; Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland. Catch the elegant marvels displayed by the stunning Cirque Musica at WinSport. Backed full symphony orchestra, expect to hear your favorite holiday hits alongside the breathtaking magic of cirque. Learn more at cirquemusica.com.

November 29 to December 29; Theatre Calgary Presents: A Christmas Carol. On Christmas Eve, Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by three spirits, who take him on a journey into his past, present, and future to show him the errors of his ways. Dickens’ classic holiday tale comes alive on the Theatre Calgary stage. See why A Christmas Carol has become a holiday tradition for so many Calgarians. Learn more at theatrecalgary.com.

December 6, 7:30pm; Calgary Philharmonic Presents: A Choral Christmas. Two-time Juno nominated Soprano Miriam Khalil joins the Orchestra, the Calgary Philharmonic Chorus, and Cantaré Children’s Choir for a selection of Christmas favorites that will be sure to get your holidays started on the right note. Learn more at calgaryphil.com.

December 6 to 8; Jeunesse Classique Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker. A breathtaking experience filled with intricate choreography, elaborate costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s enchanting score at the University of Calgary Theatre. Audiences will be transported into Clara’s magical world, where snowflakes dance and the Sugarplum Fairy reigns. Learn more at jcbs.ca.

December 6 to 8 and 13 to 15; Nutcracker (in a Nutshell). An engaging and fun performance for the whole family. This watch-and-play performance takes children through the classical ballet in just 30 minutes. After the "fuss-friendly" performance, children are invited to join the performers to dance, play and more. Watch the show and enjoy the fun that follows at Rocky Ridge YMCA on December 6 to 8 and Seton YMCA December 13 to 15. Learn more at ymcacalgary.org.

December 7, 7:30pm; Chantal Kreviazuk: A Holiday Special. Gear up for the holiday season with this one-night-only concert featuring platinum-selling, Grammy and three-time Juno Award-winning artist Chantal Kreviazuk. Learn more at calgaryphil.com.

December 8, 6 to 9pm; ATCO Presents: Santa’s Holiday Sleigh List. It’s time for Santa to take flight! The sleigh has been shined, primed and is ready to go, but wait, there’s one thing left to do, Santa’s Holiday Sleigh list needs to be finished! Will the elves all agree on what should make the Sleigh list and get it streaming by the big night? Learn more at ticketmaster.ca.

December 10 to 12; Calgary Philharmonic Presents: Traditional Christmas 2024. Celebrate the spirit of the season with a selection of holiday favourites performed by the Orchestra, Calgary Men’s Chorus, and soloists from Calgary Opera's McPhee Artist Development Program. The beautiful Grace Presbyterian Church provides the backdrop for this beloved Calgary tradition. Learn more at calgaryphil.com.

December 13 to 24; Alberta Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker. It’s Christmas Eve and Klara has received a magical gift from her eccentric Uncle Drosselmeyer: a handsome nutcracker doll. Little does she know as she falls asleep that her new toy is about to spark her imagination and take her on a dreamy adventure to the Land of Sweets. Learn more at albertaballet.com.

December 16, 8pm; A Drag Queen Christmas. The all-star queens of Logo TV's RuPaul's Drag Race are coming to save your Christmas, and this year is even more special, marking the 10th anniversary. Featuring all your favorite stars singing seasonal classics, new and old, A Drag Queen Christmas is guaranteed to get you in the naughty holiday spirit at Jack Singer Concert Hall. Learn more at artscommons.ca.

December 20 to 22; Bert Church Live Theatre Presents: The Christmas Skates with DIY Theatre. When a young boy's wish comes true in an early Christmas gift, he heads to the ice rink only to find his skates are second best. With spirits dashed, he decides to get a job to get himself better skates. Along the way he finds lessons of gratitude when he meets a friend who must work to help his family survive. Unlace the true meaning of the holidays and create a seasonal theatre tradition with this family-friendly performance. Learn more at airdrie.ca.

Until December 22; Rosebud Dinner Theatre Presents: Christmas on the Air. A 1940s family-run radio station is moments from going live with their annual Christmas Eve broadcast full of familiar holiday carols and yuletide stories when hilarity ensues. Learn more at rosebudtheatre.com.

Until December 24; Stagewest for Kids Presents: Have Your Elf A Merry Little Christmas. It’s Christmas at the North Pole once again and everything is going as planned. But when Mrs. Claus sends one of the elves on a special assignment to the human world, they find themselves unexpectedly cast as a contestant in a Christmas bake-off competition. Filled with festive holiday cheer and Christmas mayhem, this musical comedy for the whole family will remind us all of the true spirit of Christmas. Learn more at stagewestcalgary.com.

Until December 29; Storybook Theatre Presents: Beauty & the Beast. Step into the enchanted world of Broadway's classic, Disney's Beauty and the Beast, an international sensation that has been produced in 37 countries worldwide. Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature, the stage version includes all the wonderful songs. Learn more at storybooktheatre.org.

January 4 to 12; Bugs Bunny at the Symphony. This brand-new edition of Warner Bros. presents Bugs Bunny at the Symphony features beloved classics like What's Opera, Doc? and The Rabbit of Seville, new additions such as Coyote Falls and Rabid Rider. Don't miss these, plus many more favorites at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. Learn more at bugsbunnyatthesymphony.net.

January 7 to 12; Broadway Across Canada Presents: Beetlejuice. Based on Tim Burton’s dearly beloved film, this hilarious musical tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose whole life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes. Check it out at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. Learn more at calgary.broadway.com.

Until January 11; Jubilations Junior Presents: Beauty & The Grinch. The town of Glooville is set for Christmas to ring, to light up the tree and to laugh, dance and sing. The mayor has come to do her mayoral duty and is joined by her dazzling daughter named Beauty. Yes, the town is all filled with holiday cheer, but not everyone’s happy that Christmas is here. Just outside of town there’s just one who’s not happy. He thinks singing and dancing is boring and sappy. He stays far from town in his own neighborhood… his name is the Grinch and he’s up to no good. Learn more at jubilations.ca.

 

Save the Date

Until January 2; Heat Up the Holidays at Spark! You’re invited to warm up with festive experiences, delicious treats, a brand new Holiday Countdown, hands-on science experiments, robots, shopping, and so much more to make your season bright. Learn more at sparkscience.ca.

December 31; City of Calgary Livestream Fireworks Show. Details to be confirmed.

December 31; Zoo Year’s Eve. The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo's Zoo Year's Eve celebration on December 31, 2024 will include a family-friendly event in the afternoon and an adults-only celebration in the evening starting at 10pm. Learn more at calgaryzoo.com.

January 1, 2:30pm; Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert. Mark the New Year with timeless music, dazzling costumes, and breathtaking dancing. European singers, dancers, and the Strauss Symphony of Canada return for Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert at Jack Singer Concert Hall. Learn more at calgaryphil.com.

January 4 to 5; Bugs Bunny at the Symphony. This brand-new edition of Warner Bros. presents Bugs Bunny at the Symphony features beloved classics like "What's Opera, Doc?" and "The Rabbit of Seville", new additions such as Coyote Falls and Rabid Rider. Don't miss these, plus many more favorites at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. Learn more at bugsbunnyatthesymphony.net.

January 7 to 12; Broadway Across Canada Presents: Beetlejuice. Based on Tim Burton’s dearly beloved film, this hilarious musical tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose whole life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes. Check it out at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. Learn more at calgary.broadway.com.

January 11, 9:30am to 12pm; Schulich Trailblazers. Have you ever wondered what engineers actually do? Join for Schulich Trailblazers – a fun, all-family event where you can explore engineering research and even experience it firsthand through an interactive lecture and engaging hands-on activity at Schulich School of Engineering. Learn more at schulich.ucalgary.ca.

January 14 to February 2; High Performance Rodeo. Calgary’s International Festival of the Arts is where the action is. It’s a chance to watch touring performances from across Canada, acclaimed international shows, and new experimental work from artists in Calgary. Learn more at oyr.org/hprodeo.

January 17 to 18; Bond + Beyond. Embark on a thrilling escapade for your ears only with conductor Michelle Di Russo and your Calgary Phil through more than six decades of iconic music from the James Bond films. Powerhouse vocalist Morgan James gives secret-agent swagger to Bond theme songs at Jack Singer Concert Hall. Learn more at calgaryphil.com.

January 17 to 26; Footloose The Musical. Kick off your Sunday shoes with Footloose the Musical, presented by 42nd Street Productions. Join for a high-energy performance featuring live music, dynamic dance routines, and a heartwarming story at Evan Hazell Theatre at the YMCA Seton. Learn more at 42ndstreetproductions.ca.

January 17 to February 2; Banff SnowDays. Visit Banff for a celebration of all things winter. There will be snow sculptures, SnowDays play zone, and skijoring on Banff Avenue. Learn more at banff.ca.

January 18 to March 22; Jubilations Dinner Theatre Presents: The Big Bang Parody A Musical. Get ready for a musical journey unlike any other with The Big Bang Parody A Musical. Join Sheldon and the gang as they navigate the ups and downs of life, love, and the pursuit of cosmic understanding. Learn more at jubilations.ca.

January 19, 3pm; Symphony Sundays for Kids; The Hockey Sweater. Roch Carrier’s timeless classic The Hockey Sweater, narrated by Olympian Cassie Campbell-Pascall, comes to life in vivid orchestral scope at Jack Singer Concert Hall. Learn more at calgaryphil.com.

January 25, 7:30pm; Mozart's Birthday Party. It’s a double birthday celebration for Music Director Rune Bergmann and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Come party with the Calgary Phil as they perform Mozart’s imaginatively sophisticated Symphony No. 38 at Jack Singer Concert Hall. Learn more at calgaryphil.com.

January 29 to February 2; Lake Louise Ice Magic Festival. Step into a world of winter wonder on the iconic grounds of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for the return of Ice Magic in 2025. Witness world-class ice carvers in action as they create intricately carved frozen masterpieces. Take in the stunning details of the sculptures as you stroll through the glittering gallery of ice. Learn more at banfflakelouise.com.

January 31; Unplugged: Nirvana Reimagined. The musicians of the Calgary Phil and guest vocalists bring their grit to this re-creation of Nirvana’s celebrated live album MTV Unplugged in New York at Jack Singer Concert Hall. Learn more at calgaryphil.com.

January 31, 7:30pm; Bert Church Theatre Presents: Where have all the buffalo gone? Follow two Métis souls through seven different periods of Métis history in a story that begins during creation amongst the stars and ends in the present day. Where have all the buffalo gone? shares scenarios from the Callihoo family's stories and is inspired by historical events of the Métis people of Canada. Learn more at airdrie.ca.

January 31 to February 17; Chinook Blast. Chinook Blast warms up our city with a celebration of community, culture, and civic pride, where the best of Calgary’s art, music, theatre, sport and recreation will be on display. Learn more at chinookblast.ca.

February 1 to March 2; Vertigo Theatre Presents: Deadly Murder. Full of bluffs and double bluffs, crosses and double-crosses, this intensely intricate psychological thriller will be one step ahead of you until the very end. Learn more at vertigotheatre.com.

February 1 to March 22; Jubilations Junior Presents: Spider-Boy The Musical Spiderverse. Peter is having a tough time keeping his Spider-Boy identity a secret while the new girl at school is making it hard for him to focus on fighting crime. Meanwhile, the Green Goblin is causing chaos and with Spider-Boy distracted, the city is in peril. Learn more at jubilations.ca.

Until February 2; Stage West Theatre Presents: Girls Just Want to Have FunI Step aside, boy bands! The era of the girl groups has arrived! Learn more at stagewestcalgary.com.

February 1 to 23; Loose Moose Presents: Aesop's Fables. The Loose Moose Theatre For Kids is a truly magical experience for children four to ten years old, as well as fun and entertaining for parents. Learn more at loosemoose.com.

February 1 to 28; YYC Hot Chocolate Fest. This sweet festival sees cafes, restaurants, and chocolatiers compete for the coveted titles of YYC’s Best Hot Chocolate, Best Spirited Hot Chocolate, and Cup That Runneth Over Award. Calgarians can sip a variety of hot cocoas and determine the blend that roasts them all. Learn more at yychotchocolate.com.

February 12, 7pm; Le Patin Libre: Murmuration. With unmatched rigor, infectious enthusiasm, and dazzling virtuosity, the 15 artists of Le Patin Libre are as swift and dynamic as ever on their skates. Together, they will transform into a mesmerizing flock or birds, soaring through breathtaking high-speed choreography that will leave audiences spellbound at WinsSport Event Centre. Learn more at lepatinlibre.com.

February 14 to 15; Block Heater Festival. Check out the Block Heater Festival. This musical festival is an extension of the Calgary Folk Festival and features 32 artists and 13 separate events. Learn more at calgaryfolkfest.com/blockheater.

 

GIFT IDEAS & SERVICES

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Phone: Call Centre/Box Office 403-294-9494

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Give the gift of a live experience! As the largest performing arts centre in Western Canada, they offer endless ways to experience the transformative power of the arts.

BANFF NORQUAY

Website: banffnorquay.com

School’s in for winter! Bunny slopes to the big mountain! Ski and snowboard lessons, and programs for three- to 16-year-olds, including early season and holiday camps. Programs fill up fast, so book now!

BEANERS FUN CUTS FOR KIDS

Website: beanersfuncuts.com

At Beaners Fun Cuts For Kids, our experienced stylists give the whole family great hair in a fun-filled atmosphere. Maybe it’s the themed chairs, movie screens, or the video games, but we love kids, and they love us. We also offer clipper art, ear piercing, up-dos, braiding, baby’s first haircut, and professional hair care products. Book online. Experience our haircuts!

BUTTERFIELD ACRES

254077 Rocky Ridge Road NW

Phone: 403-239-0638

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Website: ButterfieldAcres.com

Family Fun, Fresh Air, Farm Animals... our little family farm welcomes visitors April through September. Fantastic day camps for four to 14 year olds and birthday parties! Our Birthday Pony (unicorn, even!) and Mini Farm can come for a special party at your home! Follow us on social media for animal-lover updates, contests, and great farm fun!

CALAWAY PARK

Phone: 403-240-3822

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Website: calawaypark.com

Give the gift of family fun this holiday season! Calaway Park invites your family to enjoy endless fun at Western Canada’s Largest Outdoor Family Amusement Park!

CALGARY PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

Phone: 403-571-0849

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Website: calgaryphil.com

We have something for the whole family – from blockbuster movies to favorite classics and concerts just for kids.

CALGARY REPTILE PARTIES & YYC NATURE & EDUCATION CENTRE  

Phone: 368-887-4758

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Website: calgaryreptileparties.com

Have an animal lover on your list? Kids meet and interact with iguanas, monitor lizards, dragons, boa constrictors, pythons, skinks, salamanders, and much more! Visit our party room at the YYC Nature Centre and meet reptiles, birds, mammals, and more. Includes animal experience and room use for presents and cake. Experience nature at the YYC Nature & Education Centre!

CITY OF CALGARY REC PASS

Website: calgary.ca/dropin

Don’t let the family get bored this winter. Drop in to one of our recreation facilities and enjoy affordable family fun!

COLOUR ON FIRE ART EDUCATION CLASSES     

Rosscarrock Community Association - 4411 10 Avenue SW

Phone: 403-542-0178

Website: colouronfireartstudio.com

Qualified and experienced art education instructors tailor their guidance to each participant's needs, skill level, and artistic goals. Kids learn about drawing, sketching, color, texture and shading while experimenting with a variety of techniques and art materials like paint and pastels.

FLYING SQUIRREL SPORTS

North location: 105 572 Aero Drive NE

Phone: 403-879-2148

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South location: 5342 72 Avenue SE

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Website: flyingsquirrelsports.ca

Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park is a Family Fun Centre with plenty of activities and attractions for all ages! We have child-friendly areas, and safety is our top priority! We have trampolines, climbing walls, a cafe, we are your premiere entertainment destination!

HERITAGE PARK HISTORICAL VILLAGE

Phone: 403-268-8500

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Website: heritagepark.ca

Create lasting memories with a Heritage Park Annual Pass! Valid all year long, a Family Annual Pass provides endless entertainment for your family of up to six at one low price.

MNP COMMUNITY & SPORT CENTRE

Phone: 403-233-8393

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Website: mnpcentre.com

Make this an active and unforgettable year at MNP Community & Sport Centre. There is no shortage of fun and sport discovery on land and in the water for the whole family.

PET PORTRAITS BY AMANDA SHARP ART

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Website: amandasharpart.com

If you're searching for a unique and thoughtful gift for a loved one, consider a personalized hand-drawn portrait of your furry friend by Amanda Sharp Art. Amanda is an expert in creating stunning portraits that capture the essence and personality of each pet. She takes the time to understand the bond between the pet and their owner, ensuring that each portrait is a true reflection of their unique connection. To order your own one-of-a-kind pet portrait, reach out to Amanda at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Free worldwide shipping included. Gift cards available.

RICHARD RONDEAU MAGICIAN     

Phone: 403-254-8718

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Website: rrmagician.com

Make your child’s birthday party extra special. Richard can present a 30- to 45-minute show with comedy, audience participation, and jaw-dropping magic. Suitable for ages three and up, Richard will tailor his show to the age of your birthday child.

STORYBOOK THEATRE       

Phone: 403-216-0808, Ext. 2

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Website: storybooktheatre.org

For over 42 years, StoryBook Theatre has been entertaining families from all over Calgary with our award-winning professional, quality shows. We also provide a year-round Theatre School for children ages six to 18, which is designed to develop acting skills, self-confidence, teamwork, and stagecraft abilities.

TRICO CENTRE FOR FAMILY WELLNESS

11150 Bonaventure Drive SE

Phone: 403-278-7542

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Website: tricocentre.ca

Trico Centre for Family Wellness wants your family to be #tricotough and active! Come swim with us in our wave pool with waterslide, water features, hot tub, and steam rooms. Huge, clean fitness centre, bright pool, hockey arenas. We offer activities for all ages!

VIN GOGH PAINT SIP STUDIO        

7160 Fisher Street SE

Phone: 403-475-4644

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Website: vingogh.ca

Vin Gogh Paint Sip Studio is for creating and connecting. We offer birthday parties for all ages, date night, girls night out, fundraisers, team building, and more. This is fun art for all ages and stages. You keep the art, we clean up the mess.

VIVO FOR HEALTHIER GENERATIONS

1950 Country Village Link NE

Phone: 403-532-1013

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Website: vivo.ca

Skate, swim, dance, climb, create, connect, and explore. Come in from the cold for family fun at Vivo with a wide variety of unique and innovative programs and activities for parents and children alike. Get active, get healthy, and do it together! Visit vivo.ca and discover your passion today!

WINSPORT

Phone: 403-247-5452

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Website: winsport.ca

WinSport’s purpose is to inspire human potential through the spirit of sport and it’s something that is woven into all of our year-round, award-winning programming. Our passionate, expert instructors will help your child learn a sport, get better at it, and develop a lifelong love for being active. We have summer camps and programs in mountain biking, hockey, ringette, figure skating, and in specialized sport training. Come out and play with us

YMCA CALGARY

Locations throughout Calgary and two locations west of Calgary

Website: ymcacalgary.org

From swim lessons, day or overnight camps, to triathlon swim and boot camps, we have the programs and facilities to keep your whole family active. Join us and our active community at one of our health and wellness locations or outdoor camp locations.

 

Events are correct at the time of publishing, changes do happen, please confirm dates and times. This listing is provided for your reference only. Please research carefully and choose the company that best meets your family’s needs. CCM

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