57 things to do in Calgary this winter

Winter has arrived in Calgary and the city is full of fun events to check out. From Christmas fun to New Year’s Eve, Snoop Dogg to Ice Magic Festival, here are 57 Calgary events you need to check out this season.

For more things happening around town, check out our events section.

Christmas Events

Christmas in Kensington

What: Santa Clause and sleigh rides — that’s what you can expect at Christmas in Kensington. Grab the family and head down to spread Christmas cheer. Stay and catch a holiday movie at 3:30 pm as well.

When: Every Saturday to December 22, 2018
Time: 12 to 4 pm
Where: Kensington Calgary — Kensington Rd and 10th Street NW, Calgary
Tickets: By donation

Miracle on First Street YYC

What: Inspired by quirky office Christmas parties, the halls are decked with kitschy Christmas decor. Guests are encouraged to dress in their most festive gear as they sip on seasonal cocktails, so take this opportunity to dig out your most cringe-worthy Christmas sweater and reindeer head-gear. The over-the-top atmosphere, which will be hosted at Proof Cocktail Bar, will have even the biggest Grinch feeling goofy. Whether you choose the classy Christmaspolitan or the decadent Run Run Rudolf as your drink of choice, this bar is sure to bring the holiest and jolliest of times.

When: Now to Sunday, December 23, 2018
Time: 4 pm to 1 am daily
Where: Proof Cocktail Bar – 1302 1st Street SW
Admission: Free

Calgary Christmas Market

What: Dine with friends as live holiday entertainment fills the market and indulge in treats while you find the perfect gift. Featuring favourite market and seasonal vendors, Yuletide gifts, food, jewelry, décor and more. There will also be visits with Santa, cookie decorating, roaming Grinch, live ice carving, viewing Santa’s Reindeer, and more.

When: Now to Sunday, December 23, 2018
Time: 9 am to 5 pm
Where: Calgary Farmers’ Market – 510 77 Ave SE, Calgary
Admission: Free

Once Upon a Christmas

What: Experience the magic of Christmas past at Heritage Park. Enjoy a festive wagon ride, sing carols or visit with jolly old Saint Nick himself. Immerse yourself in an old-fashioned Christmas as some of the historical family homes and buildings open their doors to share their Yuletide traditions.

When: Weekends from now to Sunday, December 23, 2018
Time: 9:30 am to 4 pm
Where: Heritage Park – 1900 Heritage Drive S.W., Calgary
Tickets: Online

Banff Gondola Mountaintop Christmas 2018

What: Christmas has truly come alive at the top of Sulphur Mountain, all thanks to Banff Gondola’s stunning Mountaintop Christmas event. From now until the end of December, the Banff Gondola has turned its sky-high destination into a Winter Wonderland, complete with visits from Santa, cookie decorating, star gazing, and a mulled wine bar.

When: Now until December 30, 2018
Time: 10 am to 8:30 pm from Wednesday to Sunday, and any day after December 20; 10 am to 4:30 pm on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Where: 100 Mountain Ave, Banff
Tickets: Available online, $58, or $64 at the gate. $49 admission after 5 pm

Northern Reflections: A Winter Window Exhibition

What: Buds Collective has paired local businesses with YYC artists and animators to bring Calgarians a unique opportunity to participate in an immersive art experience unlike any other. Celebrate the magic of wintertime as you stroll the streets searching out painted windows with the help of the AUGLE app. Then use AUGLE to reveal the animation through Augmented Reality.

When: Now to December 31, 2018
Time: Various times
Where: Various locations in Calgary’s downtown core
Price: Free

Holiday Lights

Airdrie Festival of Lights

What: The annual Airdrie Festival of Lights is set to illuminate more than a million Christmas lights in Nose Creek Park again, starting December 1. There will be miniature train rides available for $2 and two handcrafted fire pits to gather around.  Much needed cups of hot chocolate will also be $2. Santa will also pay a few visits to the park during the festival. The festival is run by volunteers, with entry by donation. All proceeds go to the Airdrie and District Hospice Society and their Tree Of Hope Campaign. At the festival, the Tree of Hope will be illuminated every night in memory of loved ones who have passed and greetings of hope will be left for those suffering.

When: Now to Monday, December 31, 2018
Time: 6 to 9 pm
Where: Nose Creek Park – 1701 Main Street S, Airdrie
Admission: By cash donation; parking is free

Lion’s Festival of Lights 2018

What: The Lions Festival of Lights is back for their 32nd year to brighten up Calgary’s 14th Street NW with over 450,000 shining lights. The display is put together by volunteers who spend thousands of hours creating the shining assortment of Christmas figures and decked-out trees. This year’s festival is now 99% green as it is created using LED bulbs connected by nearly three kilometres of power cords.

When: Now to Tuesday, January 8, 2019
Time: 6 pm to midnight daily
Where: Confederation Park – 14th Street NW, north of 24th Avenue, Calgary
Admission: Free

Zoolights

What: Experience how 2+ million lights, 200 displays, crackling fire pits, and fun-filled activity zones (with many new additions), transform the Calgary Zoo into a magical winter wonderland.

When: Now to Saturday, January 5, 2019
Time: 6 to 9 pm
Where: The Calgary Zoo – 210 ST. Georges Drive NE, Calgary
Tickets: Online, General (16+) $19.95, Child (3-15) – $14.95

Nikka Yuko Winter Lights Festival 2018/2019

What: Throughout the months of December, January, and February, Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden comes alight with intricately places bulbs, casting a new glow on the already-astounding sights. Over 115,000 lights have been set up in a display that is sure to delight.

When: Select nights from now to February 2, 2019
Time: 6 to 9 pm
Where: Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden — Mayor Magrath Dr S, Lethbridge
Tickets: Available online, $8

Celebrate New Year’s Eve

City of Calgary and new Central Library’s 2019 New Year’s Eve Celebration

What: The New Central Library New Year’s Eve party will include family dancing, a family-friendly theatre performance, video games, poetry readings, Indigenous beading and storytelling, and crafts for all ages. The entire event will come to a head at 9 pm when Mayor Naheed Nenshi will lead a kids’ countdown — though any adults not planning to stay up past midnight on a Monday will be able to celebrate before their bedtime as well.

The party continues at the Municipal Atrium Rumpus Room until 11 pm, where visitors will be able to partake in an indoor hockey rink, interactive games, a bouncy castle, an ENMAX photo booth, and even check out a “Fire Fountain” art installation. After 11, the party heads over to the Olympic Plaza Skating Party, which will have hot chocolate to warm you up and a perfect view of the Calgary Tower fireworks when the clock strikes 12.

When: Monday, December 31, 2018
Time: 6 to 9 pm at New Central Library, 7 to 11 pm at the Municipal Atrium Rumpus Room, and 7 pm to midnight at Olympic Plaza
Where: New Central Library — 802 3rd Street SE, Calgary
Municipal Atrium Rumpus Room — 800 Macleod Trail SE
Olympic Plaza — 228 8th Avenue SE, Calgary
Admission: Free

Olympic Plaza New Year’s Eve Skating Party 2018

What: The City of Calgary is hosting an outdoor celebration to ring in the New Year, though you may need to bundle up to attend. The party will run throughout the evening and into midnight (obviously) at Olympic Plaza, with roaming performers, a line-up of local artists, free skate rentals, fire pits, and more. Ice sculptures will line Stephen Avenue, and a firework display will end off the night as soon as the countdown hits zero. There will also be free hot chocolate provided by Tim Hortons to keep you warm late into the night, as well as food trucks so that you can head into 2019 on a full stomach.

When: Monday, December 31, 2018
Time: Throughout the day and ending at just after midnight.
Where: Olympic Plaza – 228 8th Avenue SE, Calgary
Admission: Free

Enjoy the great outdoors

Ice Magic Festival Banff 2019

What: The Ice Magic Festival in Banff is like nothing you’ve ever seen before. Running 12 days long from January 16 to 27, the Ice Magic Festival hosts 10 teams of two in a competition to create the most stunningly shiny work of frozen art. The artwork will then be on display until the end of the festival on January 27, accompanied by live DJs and nighttime lighting displays. Snowshoeing, skiing, ice skating, and sleigh riding could also fill your days – while you aren’t sitting cozily by the fire, that is – as Banff is home to many great wintertime activities.

When: Wednesday, January 16 to Sunday, January 27, 2019
Time: Times vary, check schedule for details
Where: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise – 111 Lake Louise Drive, Lake Louise
Tickets: Online, $9.99 (tickets only needed for weekend days, weekdays are free to attend)

Winter ice skating at Olympic Plaza

What: Built in 1988 for the Olympic Winter Games, Olympic Plaza has the only refrigerated outdoor ice surface in the city. You can rent skates down at the plaza if you don’t have a pair of your own. Helmets are strongly encouraged.

When: Now to mid-March
Time: 10 am to 9 pm, Weather dependent
Where: Olympic Plaza – 228 8th Avenue SE
Admission: Free. Skates are also available for rent – $12 for adults

Brewster Banff Gondola

What: Head to the summit for an unreal view above the treetops and a birds-eye view of six different mountain ranges, while sipping on coffee or a refreshing glass of wine. Start with a walk along the Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk to learn more about Canada’s first national park, or go indoors to sample from three restaurant menus. Then get hands-on in the world-class interpretive centre and theatre.

When: Daily until April 18, 2019. Closed for maintenance January 7 to January 18, 2019
Time: Various
Where: 100 Mountain Avenue, Banff
Tickets: Online, various prices

Kananaskis After Dark: Stargazing and Photography Tour

What: Join Kananaskis’ skilled guide on a star and moonlit hike through the Kananaskis forest. In an open meadow by the river, the group will pause to relax and take in the night sky; guests are welcome to bring a camera and tripod to try out some astrophotography or to just hang out with the group, peek through the telescope and chat about astronomy.

When: Various dates
Time: Various times
Where: Kananaskis Village Center – 1 Mt. Sparrowhawk Cresent
Book: Online

Explore the city

Art Acoustic Sunday Series

What: Hang out with a few of Art on 9th’s favourite art instructors for an informal discussion and hands-on activity that explores the basic elements of art and design.

When: Every Sunday to December 23, 2018
Time: 10 am to 12 pm
Where: Art On 9th – 1211 9 Ave SE, Calgary
Admission: Free

The Holly Jolly Christmas Caper 2018

What: Calgary’s Lougheed House is being taken over by Escape Capers YYC from December 26 to 29, allowing Calgarians the chance to test their wits against the puzzles, brain-teasers, and riddles that bar their freedom. Taking a regular escape room up quite a few notches, the Holly Jolly Christmas Caper will include up to nine teams of six to nine people working their way through the house and solving clues as they go.

When: Wednesday, December 26 to Saturday, December 29, 2018
Time: Multiple times available for booking
Where: The Lougheed House — 707 13th Avenue SW, Calgary
Price: Online, $50 to $55, booking available

Cowboy’s Yule Ball 2018

What: Inspired by the gigantic holiday party featured in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Cowboys is planning on hosting a Yule Ball of its own this December. For the third year in a row, Cowboys will deck out their dancehall in HP-themed decorations, music, and costumes, and all attendees are encouraged to dress as their favourite Harry Potter characters.

When: Friday, December 28, 2018
Time: 8 pm to 2 am
Where: Cowboys Dancehall — 421 12th Avenue SE
Tickets: Available online, $10 to $15

Roasterie Tour – Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters

What: This 20-minute tour gives attendees a look at Phil & Sebastian’s vintage retro-fitted roaster and operations, plus learn about their green coffee sourcing strategies.

When: Wednesday, January 2, 2019
Time: 12:15 to 12:35 pm
Where: Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters – 618 Confluence Way Southeast, Calgary
Tickets: Online, Free

Race Issues: A Comic Series Art Exhibit

What: Over the past year, artist Eman Elkadri has been working on a comic series about the experiences of racialized youth living in Canada. See 40 unique comics about microaggressions, hear from Eman about her inspiration, as well as hear from some of the youth she worked with, plus learn more about what attendees can do. Canadian Cultural Mosaic Foundation will also be launching the Race Issues publication (thanks to a partnership with ActionDignity Youth PLACE Program).

When: Thursday, January 3, 2019
Time: 6:30 to 8:30 pm
Where: The New Gallery – 208 Centre St. SE, Calgary
Tickets: Online, Free

Visual Arts Open Lecture: Fatimah Tuggar

What: The Visual Arts Lecture Series presents talks by leading Canadian and international artists, curators and academics. Fatimah Tuggar, guest faculty for the Digital Promises program, is the featured speaker.

When: Tuesday, January 8, 2019
Time: 4 pm
Where: Banff Centre – Jeanne and Peter Lougheed Bldg, 204 – 107 Tunnel Mountain Dr, Banff
Register: Online, Free

Drawn to Nature at the Banff Public Library

What: Participants of all ages and levels of experience are invited to sketch and draw at Banff Centre’s free ongoing beginner-level drawing workshops. Join esteemed Teaching Artist in Residence Janice Tanton to explore different materials and techniques for mark making in this facilitated class. All classes encourage artistic exploration and conversation about the ways in which we interact with the cultural and geological landscapes of Banff National Park. The drawings and sketches produced from these sessions are invited to display in a Community Exhibition at the end of the year.

When: Wednesday, January 9, 2019
Time: 5:30 pm
Where: Banff Public Library – 101 Bear St, Banff
Register: Online, Free

Library Screening Series – Destiny at New Central Library

What: Calgary Cinematheque presents Library Screening Series, a screening of the film along with a short lecture and guided discussion of its cultural and artistic significance. Destiny by Egyptian director Youssef Chahine tells a story of political intrigue and sectarian tensions revolving around 12th century Arab Andalusian philosopher Averröes.

When: Sunday, January 13, 2019
Time: 2 to 5 pm
Where: New Central Library — 800 3rd Street SE, Calgary
Tickets: Online, Free

Free First Thursday

What: Explore the Glenbow Museum at your leisure for FREE on the first Thursday of every month.

When: The first Thursday of every month
Time: 5 pm to close
Where: Glenbow Museum – 130 9th Avenue SE
Admission: Free

High Performance Rodeo

What: The High Performance Rodeo, Calgary’s International Festival of the Arts, is an annual festival that animates the city in January with an array of live performances from around the world. Featuring theatre, music, dance, and multidisciplinary art, ‘The Rodeo’ is a showcase of the best in contemporary performance.

When: January 9 to 27, 2019
Time: Various times
Where: Various venues
Tickets: Online

The Bash

What: The Bash showcases some of the most innovative, and trend-setting wedding creatives you can find in Calgary.

When: January 19 and 20, 2019
Time: 6 pm (Saturday), 11 am (Sunday)
Where: Hudson 6th Floor – 200 8 Avenue SW, Calgary
Tickets: Online, $30

Banff Musicians in Residence Open Concert Featuring Brendan Canning

What: Join Brendan Canning and participants from theBanff Musicians In Residence program for an evening of musical exploration.

When: Friday, January 25, 2019
Time: 7:30 pm
Where: The Club at The Banff Centre – St Julien Way, Banff
Tickets: Online, free

Locked Library 2019

What: Locked Library is an event that will see teams of contestants entering New Central Library on February 1, trying to escape the newly-opened building within the allotted time. The event is expected to last up to two hours and will run from 7:30 to 9:30 pm — giving attendees a chance to experience the architecturally stunning building after hours. All proceeds go towards supporting the Calgary Public Library.

When: Friday, February 1, 2019
Time: 7:30 to 9:30 pm
Where: New Central Library — 800 3rd Street SE, Calgary
Admission: $42 per person (or $102 with a $60 tax receipt), registration available online

Body Weather Workshop Presentation

What: This workshop will gather together ten First Nations creators in a process of dialogue, exchange and physical practice. Body Weather cultivates a conscious relation to states of change, porous and permeating. Body Weather considers the body as a constantly changing environment within a greater environment – always in flux.

When: Friday, February 8, 2019
Time: 7 pm
Where: Banff Centre – Laszlo Funtek Room 224
Tickets: Online, Free

Parks Canada Presents: A Beary, Berry Good Day

What: Join illustrator, Stéfanie Gignac, and author, Laurie Schwartz, to see Banff National Park’s storybook, “A Beary, Berry Good Day” brought to life in a puppet show. Then, stick around to discover amazing bear facts with Laurie.

When: Monday, February 18, 2019
Time: 9:30 am and 2 pm
Where: Banff Centre – Max Bell 253
Tickets: Online, Free

Pitch Night YYC

What: Volition Events’ Pitch Nights provide a comfortable space for entrepreneurs to gain practical experience and feedback on their three-minute pitch, in front of a live audience and industry panel. The audience votes on the top three companies to receive valuable prizes from sponsors and partners.

When: Tuesday, February 26, 2019
Time: 5 to 8 pm
Where: Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking – 402 Collegiate Blvd NW, Calgary
Tickets: Online, Free

Esker Foundation

What: Esker Foundation connects the public to contemporary art through relevant, accessible, and educational exhibitions, programs, and publications. The gallery reflects on current developments in local, regional, and international culture; creates opportunities for public dialogue; and supports the production of groundbreaking new work, ideas, and research. Admission is free. The gallery is barrier-free.

When: Open Tuesdays to Sundays. Closed Mondays
Time: Various times
Where: Esker Foundation – 4th Floor – 1011 9th Ave SE, Calgary
Admission: Free

Adults Only Night at Telus Spark

What: Free reign in our galleries, a fully licensed bar, dance jams and even riskier science. With no children around, Telus Spark brings out more involved challenges, invite innovative collaborators from the community and turn up the excitement.

When: The second Thursday of every month
Time: 6 to 10 pm
Where: Telus Spark – 220 St. George’s Drive NE, Calgary
Tickets: Online, $26

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in Concert 2019

What: Harry, Hermione, Ron, Dobby the house elf, and the famous, dreamy wizard-celebrity-turned Defense Against The Dark Arts Instructor Gilderoy Lockhart will be seen on the screen at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Theatre for two shows this winter, accompanied by Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra that will bring John Williams’ iconic soundtrack to life.

When: Friday, February 28 and Saturday, March 1, 2019
Time: 7:30 pm
Where: Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium — 1415 14th Avenue NW
Tickets: Start at $43, available online

Artifact Small Format Film Festival

What: The Artifact Small Format Film Festival (formerly the $100 Film Festival) is Calgary’s only celluloid-based film festival. Over the years, Artifact has expanded to include the popular Film/Music Explosion!, commission projects, and various partnerships.

When: March 7 to 9, 2019
Time: Various times
Where: Theatre Junction GRAND – 608 1 St SW, Calgary
Price: Varies

Bon Appétit

Sunday Brunch at Fort Calgary

What: Enjoy a scrumptious brunch featuring fresh brunch classics like eggs benny, farm fresh sausage and bacon, house-made scones and more. Brunch includes admission to the museum.

When: Every Sunday to December 30, 2018
Time: 10 am
Where: Knox United Church – 506, 4th St. SW, Calgary
Price: Adults $30, children (5-12) $17, children under five free. Call 403-290-1875 to book.

Cocktail Classes

What: Interested in upping your cocktail game? Learn the ropes from the experts at Shelter. You’ll learn everything from the comprehensive history of cocktail culture, mixology origins dating back in the 1800s and the resurgence of a craft beverage in the early 2000s. The class includes three cocktails, complimentary bar snacks, muddling, stirring, shaking, and smoking techniques. You’ll also receive your very own cocktail survival guide. Attendees must be 18+.

When: The first Tuesday of each month
Time: 5:30 and 8:30 pm
Where: Shelter – 1210 1st Street SE
Tickets: Online, $65 per person

Sunday Brunch and Market Tour

What: Join the Calgary Farmers’ Market and Calgary Food Tours as they bring to you a very special Sunday brunch. Enjoy 16 bites and treats as various Alberta ranchers explain what it takes to bring their products to the market. Sample their produce and leave feeling inspired to fill your shopping bag with fresh goodies.

When: Every Sunday
Time: 10:30 am
Where: 510, 77 Street SE – off Blackfoot Trail and close to Heritage Drive SE
Tickets: Online, $55

Healthy Entertaining Series – Mexican Theme

What: Community Natural Foods’ Healthy Entertaining Series begins with a Mexican theme. Join Chef Shane Rutledge as he demonstrates how to cook a fabulously healthy Mexican themed dinner complete with samples and recipes including both vegan and gluten-free options.

When: Wednesday, January 23, 2019
Time: 7 to 8:30 pm
Where: Community Natural Foods – 1304 10 Avenue Southwest, Calgary
Tickets: Online, Free

YYC Hot Chocolate Fest

What: YYC Hot Chocolate Fest is back again for another year, raising money for Calgary Meals on Wheels, while giving you the opportunity to sip upon a variety of creative hot chocolates throughout the city.

When: February 1 to 28, 2019
Time: Various times
Where: Various restaurants and cafe
More Info: Online

Calgary Maple Festival

What: This annual winter festival will take you through the history of the Sugar Shack – a French Canadian tradition – while showcasing Alberta’s Francophone, Metis and First Nations’ heritage. For its 17th edition, the event will expand within Heritage Park to be bigger and better than ever, providing ample entertainment for visitors of all ages. The two-day festival will feature several folk musicians and dance performances, the opportunity to visit an authentic replica of an early 20th century sugar shack, a sugar shack brunch, many delectable local products at the new Maple Market, and a tasting of a succulent maple taffy on snow.

When: March 2 to 3, 2019
Time: Various times
Where: Heritage Park – 1900 Heritage Drive SW
Tickets: Online

Cheer on the home teams

Calgary Flames

What: The Flames continue their NHL season this winter with home games versus Detroit Red Wings on January 18, New York Islanders on February 20, Toronto Maple Leafs on March 4, and more

When: Various dates
Time: Various times
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome – 555 Saddledome Rise SE
Tickets: Online

Calgary Hitmen

What: The Hitmen bring WHL action to the Saddledome throughout the winter, with home games against Victoria Royals on January 1, Regina Pats on February 6 and Edmonton Oil Kings on March 8.

When: Various dates
Time: Various times
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome – 555 Saddledome Rise SE
Tickets: Online

Calgary Roughnecks

What: The Calgary Roughnecks bring National Lacrosse League action to the Saddledome throughout the winter, with home games against San Diego Seals on December 28, New England Black Wolves on January 12, Vancouver Warriors on February 2 and Toronto Rock on March 9.

When: Various dates
Time: Various times
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome – 555 Saddledome Rise SE
Tickets: Online

WWE Live Road to Wrestlemania

What: Professional wrestling returns to Calgary as Stampede Corral hosts WWE Live Road to Wrestlemania. Some of the WWE Raw Superstars expected to attend include Samoa Joe, Braun Strowman, Raw Tag Team Champions Cesaro & Sheamus, Alexa Bliss, Asuka, Seth Rollins, Dean Ambrose and more.

When: Saturday, February 10, 2018
Time: 7:30 pm
Where: Stampede Corral – 10 Corral Trail SE, Calgary
Tickets: Online

Eat fresh with farmers’ markets

Hillhurst Sunnyside Farmers’ Market

What: Grab your weekly haul of delicious produce, eggs, baked goods, meats, preserves, florals, and more, all grown and produced on farms right here in Alberta. You can enjoy live entertainment and other fun activities happening at this quaint community farmers’ market. The market will go on rain or shine, so come prepared.

When: Every Wednesday
Time: 3 to 7 pm
Where: 1320 5th Avenue NW, Calgary
Admission: Free

Crossroads Market

What: Enjoy farm-fresh produce and tasty treats plus lost of unique finds from the large variety of vendors.

When: Fridays to Sundays
Time: 9 am to 5 pm
Where: Crossroads Market – 1235 26 Ave SE, Calgary
Admission: Free

The Mercantile at Symons Valley Ranch

What: The Mercantile at Symons Valley Ranch features over 35 vendors under one roof over one counter. Crafts, food vendors, and more.

When: Fridays to Sundays
Time: 10 am to 6 pm (Fridays), 10 am to 5 pm (Saturday to Sunday)
Where: Symons Valley Ranch – 14555 Symons Valley Road
Admission: Free

Concerts and Comedy

Get Together Holiday Massive 2018

What: Headlining the festival will be Diplo and Illenium, while other performers set to take the stage on either December 27 or 28 include Alison Wonderland, Troyboi, Black Tiger Sex Machine, Loud Luxury, Ghastly, Crankdt, Svdden Death, and Phantoms. The festival will be held at Edmonton’s Shaw Conference Centre, a 23,000-sq-ft space with a capacity for 5,000 guests.

When: Thursday, December 27 to Friday, December 28, 2018
Time: Doors open at 8 pm
Where: Shaw Conference Centre — 9797 Jasper Avenue, Edmonton
Tickets: 18+ event. Tickets available online. $119.50+

Dirty Laundry: Oil Money

What: Dirty Laundry, Calgary’s only completely live, completely improvised soap opera presents their 19th season – Oil Money. It’s 1978 in Calgary, Alberta. There’s plenty of oil and plenty of money. The story centers around two feuding families who run two competing oil companies. Who’s heart will break? Who’s deal will bust? Will Calgary ever get the Olympics? Head to the show to find out.

When: Every Monday until April 15, 2019
Time: 7:30 pm
Where: Lunchbox Theatre – 160 – 115 9 Avenue SE, Calgary
Tickets: Online, $10-$16

Dierks Bentley

What: Country star Dierks Bently is coming to Calgary this January for his Burning Man Tour. Along with him on tour will be special guests Jon Pardi, Tenille Towns, and Hot Country Knights.

When: Saturday, January 26, 2019
Time: 7 pm
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome – 555 Saddledome Rise SE, Calgary
Tickets: Online

The Arkells

What: In honour of their fifth studio album Rally Cry, Hamilton’s The Arkells are going on a nation-wide tour with special guests, Lord Huron. The Arkells have also partnered with PLUS1 so that $1 from every ticket sold is going to support the rights of refugees and vulnerable migrants in Canada through the Canadian Council for Refugees.

When: Saturday, February 9, 2019
Time: 7:30 pm
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome – 555 Saddledome Rise SE, Calgary
Tickets: Online

Mother Mother

What: Vancouver-based alt-rockers Mother Mother will be making a stop in Calgary for their 2019 North American Dance and Cry Tour. The tour comes after the release of their new 12-track album, Dance and Cry. The tour will be the band’s most extensive to date, as they hit 40 cities across the continent. Featuring special guests Said The Whale.

When: Saturday, February 9, 2019
Where: Grey Eagle Event Centre — 3777 Grey Eagle Drive
Time: Doors at 7 pm
Tickets: Online

Aziz Ansari

What: Comedian, actor, writer, producer, and director, Aziz Ansari is coming to Calgary for his latest North American Tour, “Road to Nowhere.” Ansari began his career in the beloved television series, NBC’s Parks and Recreation. He’s also appeared in a number of comedies, including This is the End, Funny People, and Get Him To The Greek. Most recently, the comedy heavyweight starred, wrote, and directed the Netflix comedy, Master of None.

When: Thursday, February 14, 2019
Time: 7 pm
Where: Grey Eagle Event Centre – 3777 Grey Eagle Drive, Calgary
Tickets: Online

Snoop Dogg & Friends

What: Get ready to drop it like it’s hot, because Snoop Dogg & Friends will be performing at Scotiabank Saddledome. The tour “proudly celebrating 25 years of doggystyle” brings a line-up of 90s guests to make a full TBT listening sesh on a Friday night. Snoop Doggy Dog will be joined by Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Warren G, Kurupt, and Luniz.

When: Thursday, February 21, 2019
Time: Doors 7 pm, show 8 pm
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome — 555 Saddledome Rise SE, Calgary
Tickets: Online

Block Heater: A Winter Music Extravaganza

What: Occurring at four live music venues throughout Calgary, Calgary Folk Music Festival’s Block Heater features 28 national and international artists performing concerts.

When: February 21 to 23, 2019
Time: Various times
Where: Festival Hall – 1215 10 Avenue SE, Calgary; New Central Library — 802 3rd Street SE, Calgary; Studio Bell – 850 4 St SE, Calgary; King Eddy – 438 9 Ave SE, Calgary
Tickets: Online

See also

• The lights festival at Lethbridge's Japanese garden is gorgeous (PHOTOS)
• Make your spirit bright at Banff Gondola's Mountaintop Christmas
• Celebrate New Year's Eve at a FREE New Central Library dance party