33 things to do in Calgary this week: December 4 to 10

With December well underway, the holidays have left no shortage of things to do around the city!

From skating downtown to strolling through beautiful light displays, enjoying a cup of hot chocolate by a fire to getting all fancied up for a Christmas performance, there are just so many thing you must make time for this week. ‘Tis the season!

Here is our round up of exciting festivities happening this week in Calgary.

Monday, December 4

CORE Shopping Centre Find Christmas Downtown 2017

What: Take a break from the holiday shopping hustle and take a stroll through the 45-foot tree decorated in the midst of the CORE shopping centre, along with 150 other sparkling trees in the surrounding area. There is no better way to get in the mood for a little holiday romance!
When: Until December 20
Time: 6 pm
Where: CORE Shopping Centre – 324 8th Avenue SW, Calgary
Admission: Free!

Lion’s Festival of Lights

What: This festival of lights is the largest drive-by Christmas lights event in Calgary (and it’s free!). With over 300,000 lights and opening fireworks to start the celebration, this is a light show you won’t want to miss.
When: Saturday, December 2 to Monday, January 8
Time: Opening day 5 pm, then 6 pm to midnight daily
Where: Confederation Park – 14th Street NW, north of 24th Avenue, Calgary
Admission: Free!

The Santaland Diaries

What: Based on David Desaris’ book chronicling his hilarious experience working as an elf at Macy’s, this one-man show is a Christmas comedy that will speak to the humbug in all of us.
When: November 2 to December 23
Time:
- Monday to Saturday, noon
- Thursday to Friday, 6 pm
Tickets: Online, $155

Watch the Calgary Flames Play Philadelphia

Image: Calgary Flames / Twitter

What: A dome beer or two is always a good way to prep for the holidays! #GoFlamesGo
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome – 555 Saddledome Rise SE, Calgary
When: Monday, December 4
Time: 7 pm
Tickets: Ticketmaster, $25+

Tuesday, December 5

Brunch harder at Buttermilk Fine Waffles

What: Breakfast has just been taken to a whole other level! Enjoy a delicious waffle paired with Spiked Eggnog, a Mimosa (or two) and/or an Irish coffee.
When: Friday, December 1
Where: Buttermilk Fine Waffles – 330 17th Avenue SW

CTV Toy Mountain Campaign 2017

What: Drop off toys at in the toy box at one of the specified locations and help support families who have been affected by domestic abuse at the Women’s Emergency Shelter.
When: November 20 to December 22
Where: Various locations

Kitty Paint Night

What: Calling all cat lovers – we know you’re out there! Come hang out with the kittens at the Regal Cat Cafe as you create a painted masterpiece. All supplies provided.
When: Tuesday, December 5
Time: 6:30 to 9 pm
Where: Regal Cat Cafe – 303 10th Street NW
Tickets: Online, $25

Wednesday, December 6

Poppy-Barley Holiday Pop-Up at The Loft

Poppy Barley/Facebook

What: Now is your chance to grab yourself a pair of beautifully handcrafted boots – if you don’t own a pair already! Each shoe is designed here in Canada and ethically made in Mexico, so you can wear your shoes proudly knowing you’re supporting safe and responsible shoemaking production. Come be the first to see their Holiday 2017 Collection. #SupportCanadianDesigners
When: December 1 to 9
Time:
- Monday-Friday: 11 am to 6:30 pm
- Saturday-Sunday: 10 am to 5:30 pm
- Or book an appointment to secure yourself a spot
Where: The Loft – 405 11 Avenue SE

Dinner + A Movie at Heritage Park

What: Holiday date night just got turned up a notch! Come see this beautiful Christmas classic as you munch on popcorn and cuddle up to your SO. Cue the holiday warm fuzzies.
Where: Gasoline Alley – 1900 Heritage Drive SW, Calgary
When: Wednesday, December 6 – A Christmas Story
Time: 7:45 pm
Tickets: Online, $44.95 + GST per person (includes dinner + film), $8 (Film only)

Music for a Winter Evening

What: Come see the talented multi-award-winning singer/songwriter, Steve Bell, in concert and let him charm you away with his songs, sonnets and memorable charm. 100% of the proceeds will go towards Her Legacy Campaign, which provides support to two very deserving local charities: Oxford House and Next Step Ministries. Come celebrate the holidays, while helping those who need it most this Christmas season.
When: Wednesday, December 6
Time: 7:30
Where: Jack Singer Concert Hall – 205 8th Avenue SE
Tickets: Online, $27

Thursday, December 7

Christmas Cheer Carollers

What: Hear all your favourite holiday tunes being sung by the Christmas Cheer carollers along Stephen Avenue every Tuesday and Thursday throughout the Christmas season.
When: Every Tuesday and Thursday, November 23 to December 21
Time: 4:15 to 5:15 pm
Where: Stephen Avenue

Check out the brand new Two Penny Resturant and Tea House

What: The wait is finally over! Check out this brand-new restaurant located in the heart of Vitoria Park serving up classic authentic Chinese dishes. They even have a dim sum bar located in the basement where you can get delicious eats late into the night.
Where: Two Penny Chinese – 1213 1st Street SW

Friday, December 8

Spruce Meadows Run Series – Dashing Through the Glow

What: Dash through the dark winter wonderland in this 10 km, 5 km or 2 km run held by the Running Room and Spruce Meadows.
When: Friday, December 8
Time: 7 pm
Where: Equiplex Building, Spruce Meadows – 18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW
Tickets: $55 and up

Curated. Holiday Market

What: Shop over 85 different vendors for four weekends leading up to the Christmas season. Come get your photo with Santa, while enjoying live entertainment, children’s workshops, and more!
When: December 8 to 10
Time: Hours vary, check the schedule
Where: Deerfoot City – 901 64 Avenue NE
Tickets:$5

Market Collective Holiday Series

What: Everyone’s favourite local market is back and they are transforming Inglewood’s historic Yellow Warehouse into a cozy winter wonderland for the first three weekends in December. Shop over 150 vendors, engage with unique art pieces and interactive stations, and be sure to save room for a delicious snack from Food Truck Alley. They will also be collecting donations for the Calgary Food Bank and encouraging everyone to write a holiday card to the homeless for Make it Merry. Santa will of course be making an appearance and will be taking photos with everyone and their dog – literally! #locallove
When: December 8 to 10
Where: The Yellow Warehouse – 1390 17 Avenue SE
Tickets: $5

Watch the Calgary Hitmen Play Swift Current

What: The Hitmen are officially in their regular season, come show them some love as they make their way to the Memorial Cup.
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome – 555 Saddledome Rise SE, Calgary
When: Friday, December 8 vs Swift Current
Time: 7 pm
Tickets: Ticketmaster, $13+

Saturday, December 9

Granary Road Christmas Market

What: Calgary’s newest market has a whole lot of festive fun planned for this holiday season. Get your photo taken with an alpaca wearing a festive scarf, enjoy delish holiday treats, let Santa and Mrs. Claus know what is on your Christmas list, sit back and enjoy a sleigh ride, and so much more!
When: Every Friday to Sunday until December 23
Time: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm
Where: Granary Road – 226034 112nd Street W
Admission: FREE

Canadian Pacific Holiday Train

Courtesy of Canadian Pacific Railway

What: The Canadian Holiday train will pass by looking like a scene straight out of any Christmas movie ever, and will be presenting a boxcar stage, musical performances, and an important contribution to the local food bank. This is a Calgary light event you surely won’t want to miss out on.
When: Saturday, December 9, 2017
Where: Anderson C-Train Station – South C-train parking lot
Time: 6:45 to 7:45 pm
Price: Free! Bring non-perishable donations to support your local food bank.

Christmas Lights at Spruce Meadows

What: This 2 km drive through in Spruce Meadows is lit up so festively that it’s undeniably special for anybody to see. Also free, this Christmas lights event will leave you feeling as though Christmas day is just one sleep away.
When: Saturday, December 9 to Sunday, January 7
Time: 5 to 10 pm
Where: Spruce Meadows – 18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW
Admission: $10 per carload

Skate the Lake Fundraiser

What: Embrace winter wholeheartedly as you skate in front of the stunning Chateau Lake Louise while helping to raise money for a fantastic cause. Afterwards, you can warm up by a crackling fire as you roast marshmallows and drink hot chocolate with your friends and family.
When: Saturday, December 9
Time: 11 am to 2 pm
Where: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Admission: Free

Skate with Santa

Grab your skates and hit the ice with Santa at the annual Skate with Santa in Okotoks (Image: Voyagerix/Shutterstock)

What: Glide through the magical winter wonderland at Olympic Plaza while getting to know Santa, his elves and Ice Princesses. This is the perfect opportunity to change your fate on his naughty or nice list!
When: Saturday, December 9
Time: 1 to 4 pm
Where: Olympic Plaza – 228 8th Avenue SE
Admission: Free

Christmas in Kensington

What: Every Saturday until Christmas, enjoy complimentary coffee and hot chocolate, selfies with Santa, horse and wagon rides, a petting zoo, and four of your favourite Christmas classics up on the silver screen. The best part – it’s FREE!
When: Saturday, December 9 – The Grinch
Where: The Plaza Theatre – 1133 Kensington Road NW
Admission: FREE/ by donation

Calgary Christmas Market – One the Table, Under the Tree

What: Indulge in local treats, shop for unique holiday gems, and enjoy the seasonal ambiance of the Calgary Farmers Market as they continue their annual holiday tradition.
When: November 16 to December 23
Time: Thursday to Sunday, 9 am to 5 pm
Where: The Calgary Farmers Market – 510 77 Avenue SW
Admission: Free

Greater Goods’ second Annual Sip and Shop

What: Enjoy a free hot chocolate and Christmas treats by Pretty Sweet as you peruse the shop for unique, local holiday gems for everyone on your list. Inspired Findings will also be doing an exciting pop up with her beautiful wooden signs that you won’t want to miss!
When: Saturday, December 9
Time: 11 am to 9 pm
Where: Greater Goods Boutique and Tea Bar – 606 Meredith Road NE
Admission: FREE

Dave Kelly Live Christmas Special

What: Join Dave Kelly for a night of songs, stories and laughs with special guests Paul Brandt and the Young Canadians of the Calgary Stampede.
When: Saturday, December 9
Time: 8 pm
Where: Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium – 1415 14 Avenue NW
Tickets: Ticketmaster, $27 – $104

Watch the Calgary Flames Play Vancouver

What: Cheer on the Flames in a sea of red!
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome – 555 Saddledome Rise SE, Calgary
When: Saturday, December 9 vs Vancouver
Time: 8 pm
Tickets: Ticketmaster, $41+

Sunday, December 10

The Brick Teddy Bear Toss

What: See the Calgary Hitmen play the Moose Jaw Warriors and bring a teddy bear to participate in this world-famous toss. In recent years they have collected over 300,000 stuffed toys that have gone to local groups and community partners. Let’s make an effort to beat that this year!
When: Sunday, December 10
Time: 2 pm
Tickets: Online, $13 Kids and $20 Adults

Every Day of the Week

Go skating on Lake Louise

What: Lake Louise was rated as 2014 World’s most Beautiful Skating Rink and trust us, it definitely lives up to its reputation. Glide hand-in-hand with your special someone as you enjoy the tranquil views and take in the fresh mountain air. The lake is even lit during the evening so you can skate under the stars and then warm up by a cozy campfire. Skate rentals are available.
Where: 111 Lake Louise Drive
Admission: email or call the Concierge Team for prices and ice conditions before heading up.

Winter ice skating at Olympic Plaza

What: Skate amidst the beauty of downtown Calgary at everyone’s favourite outdoor rink.
When: Monday, November 20 to mid-March
Time: weather dependent, from 10 am to 9 pm
Where: Olympic Plaza – 228 8th Avenue SE
Admission: Free

Hit the Slopes

What: Getting snow early this year means that our mountainous backyard is waiting for us with a fluffy layer of the white stuff, perfect for winter sports and activities. Take advantage and get some shredding in during this great pre-season, or take your snowshoes for an adventure around one of the many picturesque lakes that the Rockies have to offer. Each hill also has a variety of Christmas themed activities happening throughout the holiday season, be sure to check the websites before heading up so you don’t miss the festivities.
Check the websites for Sunshine, Mount Norquay and Lake Louise to check hours of operation and see which trails are open!

Happy Chicken Dinner at The Nash + Notable

What: Enjoy an impromptu Christmas Dinner, without having to go to the hassle of cooking it yourself. Both The Nash and Notable Restaurant are offering a Happy Chicken Dinner to-go, which includes a wood roasted whole chicken, veggies, and all the fixings!
Where: The Nash – 925 11 Street SE

Mountain Top Christmas

What: Nothing is more magical than celebrating Christmas in a wonderland of snow on the top of a mountain. Help out at Santa’s workshop, experience the Elf Interactive Centre, write Santa a letter, participate in a Christmas Treasure Hunt, stargaze with astronomers, watch Disney’s ‘Prep and Landing’ Christmas short film, and so much more. It’s truly a magical wonderland that the whole family can enjoy.
When: November 18 to January 7 (Varies per event)
Time: Varies per event
Where: 100 Mountian Avenue, Banff
Tickets: Online, Adult – $62, Child – $31

Zoolights

The Calgary Zoo / Facebook

What: The Zoolights at the Calgary Zoo never fail to amaze. Each year, this unforgettable winter tradition of fun activities and stunning lights warms the hearts of many. See the Calgary Zoo light up for seven weeks straight and help celebrate the 20th anniversary of everyone’s favourite holiday experience.
When: Friday, November 24 to January 6
Time: 6 to 9 pm
Where: The Calgary Zoo – 210 ST. Georges Drive NE, Calgary
Tickets: General (16+) $14.95, Child (3-15) – $11.95

Experience Christmas from years gone by

What: Go back in time for a more traditional form of Christmas from years ago. Tap into your inner child and decorate gingerbread cookies, get vintage photos taken, visit the alpaca’s, paint snow, enjoy a wagon ride, and even sing along to some Christmas carols. You can also find some unique holiday treasures as you peruse The Corner Emporium, Plaza Mercantile, Antiques and Collectables, Switzer’s Grocery & Confectionery, and the Toy Shoppe.
When: November 25 to December 17, 22 and 23
Time: 9:30 am – 4 pm
Where: Heritage Park – 1900 Heritage Drive SW, Calgary
Admission:
- General (16+) – $10.95
- Senior (65+) – $8.75
- Youth (7 – 15) – $6.95
- Child (3 – 6) – $5.65
- 2 & under – Free

Northern Lights Window Exhibition

What: Downtown Calgary shop windows will be getting a makeover this December, and it’ll be more than just a bit of paint. Using an Augmented Reality enabled app on your phone, you’ll be able to interact and experience each painted window destination, that will reflect various Christmas stories and memories of local artists. Don’t forget to vote for your favourite window through the app!
When: Friday, December 1 to Sunday, December 31
Where: In and around Calgary’s downtown core
Admission: Free!

See also