There's a FREE family holiday event taking over Calgary next weekend

Calgary has been intermittently looking (and feeling) like a winter wonderland for a couple of weeks now. But we’re not complaining; there’s something magical about looking out your window to see a blanket of snow.

If anything, it makes us look forward to the festivities ahead even more. All that’s missing? The smell of freshly-brewed coffee, Christmas carols ringing through the halls, and a family (or friends) photo with Santa.

If you’re trying to find things to do while being conscious about the money you’re spending this month, know this: two Calgary shopping centres are hosting free family events for the holidays this month.

Snapshots with Santa is taking place at Country Hills Village on Saturday, December 14 and at Westhills Towne Centre on Sunday, December 15. Here’s a look at everything you can enjoy at the events.

Country Hills Village: Snapshots with Santa

It’s essential to take some time out to enjoy the wonder of the holidays, even when the season gets hectic. So before you forget (we all do), send out a calendar invite to your friends for Saturday, December 14.

The Snapshots with Santa event takes place from 11:30 am to 2 pm next to Famoso at Country Hills Village. Upon arrival, warm-up and indulge in a (free!) cup of coffee or hot chocolate from Starbucks as you listen to Christmas carols sung by Calgary’s signature artistic company, Cowtown Opera.

Bring the kids on down to make the most of free face painting and balloon art by Terrrrrific Face Painting. Make sure they have their gift wishlist on hand when they visit Santa in the Country Hills Village tent where they’ll get a free photograph printed on the spot.

Feel like bringing your four-legged pal with you to see Santa? No problem! Global Pet Foods will also be serving up ‘DogNog’ treats for your furry friends (cute enough for you?).

To make the festivities even better, Country Hills Village ambassadors will be circulating the event with gift card coupons. Retailers offering up special deals on the day include Diva Salon, and Rumble Boxing. There will also be free pizza samples from Famoso being handed out (while quantities last)!

Country Hills Village: Snapshots with Santa

When: Saturday, December 14
Time: 11:30 am to 2 pm
Where: Country Hills Village — 5149 Country Hills Boulevard NW
Price: FREE 

WestHills Towne Centre: Snapshots with Santa

If you can’t make it to Country Hills Village, don’t worry — the holiday action is happening all over again the following day at WestHills Towne Centre. Bring your favourite people along to warm up and enjoy the ambiance at the firepit area.

Starbucks will be providing hot chocolate and coffee to warm your belly. Meanwhile, there will be treats from Safeway and popcorn courtesy of Cineplex, so it’s basically the best possible day to put your go-to Netflix show on hold this December.

Providing the Christmas soundtracks to your day at WestHills Towne Centre will be the fantastic and uber-talented Cowtown Opera. When it comes to entertainment, the kids can get face painting done and have balloon art created by the Terrrrrific team, and of course, visit Mr. Claus. MasterMind Toys will also be handing out toys on the day!

Be sure to look out for WestHills Towne Centre ambassadors circulating the event with gift cards and coupons that you can use towards your holiday shopping. Special retailer promotions include Aldila Boutique, JoyDrop, Tommy Hilfiger, Urban Barn, Petland, and Skoah.

WestHills Towne Centre: Snapshots with Santa

When: Sunday, December 15
Time: 11:30 am to 2 pm
Where: WestHills Towne Centre — 250 Stewart Green SW
Price: FREE 

This month, unleash your inner child and make the most of the festivities taking place at Country Hills Village and WestHills Towne Centre. Don’t forget to share your Santa photos on social media! After all, ’tis the season to make memories.