It’s officially December, and Calgary is full of things to do. From live music to movies, there are plenty of ways to start the month off right.
Whether you’re looking to catch a hockey game or check out a local market, there is something for everyone to do. Here are 10 awesome things to do in Calgary this week.
Wordfest Presents: Wordfestivus
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What: Head on over to the Memorial Park Library to find a bunch of indie book collectors showcasing their favourite 2025 reads. It’s the perfect place to pick up some holiday gifts for book lovers.
When: Monday, Dec. 1, 2024; 4:30 p.m.
Where: Memorial Park Library – 1221 2nd St. SW
Cost: Free
Artist Extravaganza Showcase
What: Ten emerging artists are hitting the stage at the King Eddy this week, each performing two songs. It’s a free event, so make sure to show up early!
When: Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025; 8 p.m.
Where: The King Eddy – 438 9th Ave. SE
Cost: Free
Skate and shop at The Loft at Calgary Farmers’ Market
What: While the event isn’t until Dec. 10, we wanted to give you a heads up on this Holiday Night Market that will feature around 20 vendors, offering a variety of locally made holiday goods. Guests can enjoy Calgary’s only portable roller rink, Biggies Roller Rink, decked out in disco-inspired holiday décor. DJ Joash Charles will be on hand, spinning upbeat remixes of holiday favourites to keep the festive energy going. Seasonal beverages will be available for purchase, alongside delicious offerings from Calgary Farmers’ Market food vendors.
When: Dec. 10 to 11, 2025; 4 to 9 p.m.
Where: The Loft at Calgary Farmer’s Market West – 25 Greenbriar Dr. NW
Cost: Admission by donation
Holiday Wonder
holidaywonder.ca
What: Calgary is getting a brand-new holiday festival this year. Holiday Wonder will feature over one million lights, a life-sized gingerbread house that’s made with real gingerbread, Frosty’s indoor snowball fight zone, Santa’s sleigh simulator, a twinkling snowflake forest, and more.
When: Nov. 27, 2025, to Jan. 3, 2026
Where: BMO Centre — 1912 Flores Ladue Parade SE
Cost: Prices vary
The Debaters
What: The hilarious radio show The Debaters is hitting the road and taking its live show right to the Grey Eagle Events Centre! Join Steve Patterson for this festive night of stand-up comedy and joke-filled debates.
When: Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025; 7:30 p.m.
Where: Grey Eagle Events Centre – 3777 Grey Eagle Dr.
Cost: Ticket prices vary on seat
University District Holiday Market
University District/Facebook
What: The University District Holiday Market is back in December for one weekend! You can enjoy local artisans, entertainment, and the annual tree lighting ceremony. Guests can warm up at fire features and go for a skate on the outdoor skating rink under twinkling lights.
When: Dec. 4 to 5, 2025
Where: Central Commons Park — 4019 University Ave. NW
Cost: Free
Catch a Flames Game
Sergei Belski/Imagn Images
What: Join the Calgary Flames for their Canadian Armed Forces appreciation night as they take on the Minnesota Wild. It’s going to be an action-packed night as the two NHL teams face off.
When: Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025; 7 p.m.
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome – 555 Saddledome Rise SE
Cost: Prices vary on seat
Zoolights
The Calgary Zoo/Facebook
What: Zoolights is back this year, bigger, brighter, and wilder than ever. Watch as the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo turns into a winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights and dazzling displays. Guests can enjoy axe throwing, interactive activities, treats, and much more.
When: Nov. 14, 2025, to Jan. 4, 2026
Where: Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo — 210 St. George’s Dr. NE
Cost: Ticket prices vary on date
Movie night at The Grand
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What: Join The Grand for a Christmas-themed movie night this Friday featuring a screening of the classic short cartoon How the Grinch Stole Christmas, followed by the full-length movie of How the Grinch Stole Christmas starring Jim Carrey.
When: Friday, Dec. 5, 2025; doors at 5:30 p.m.
Where: The Grand 608 1st St. SW
Cost: $15 + fees
Calgary Hitmen at the ‘Dome
Official Calgary Hitmen Hockey Club/Facebook
What: The Calgary Hitmen are facing off against the Prince Albert Raiders this Friday in an exciting WHL match.
When: Friday, Dec. 5, 2025
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome – 555 Saddledome Rise SE
Cost: Ticket prices vary depending on date and seat
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra: Handel’s Messiah
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra/Facebook
What: The Calgary Phil is bringing back their beloved Christmas tradition, Handel’s Messiah. “Conductor Stephen Stubbs, a cast of soloists, and the Calgary Philharmonic Chorus join the Orchestra for this quintessential holiday classic,” according to the website.
When: Dec. 4 and 5, 2025; 7:30 p.m.
Where: Jack Singer Concert Hall – 225 8th Ave. SE
Cost: Ticket prices vary on seat and date