It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas here in Calgary, and judging from the fantastic lineup of festive events on this week’s list, there’s no shortage of ways to get into the holiday spirit.
From holiday markets to hockey games, you’re bound to find the perfect weekday activity for you. Check out these 11 things to do in Calgary this week.
What: The holiday edition of Market Collective is returning to the BMO Centre at the end of this week, and it’s the perfect spot to connect with local crafters, bakers, creators, and more and to find that perfect holiday gift!
When: December 13 to 15
Where: BMO Centre, Hall D — 1912 Flores Ladue Parade SE
Cost: $7 admission (good for the whole weekend)
What: ZooLights is back for its 28th year and will be glowing for seven weeks of festive, family-friendly fun at Calgary Zoo! Enjoy all the magic of Calgary’s award-winning, magical holiday tradition while supporting wildlife conservation — it’s a win-win!
When: November 15, 2024, to January 5, 2025
Time: 5 to 9 pm
Where: Calgary Zoo — 210 St. George’s Drive NE, Calgary
Tickets: Price varies by day
What: Taking over Olympic Plaza from Fridays to Sundays this month is the epic free winter festival Plaza Palooza. With live entertainment, carnival games, and more, it’s the perfect place to have an awesome Friday Night!
When: Fridays to Sundays until December 22; 4 pm to 9 pm
Where: Olympic Plaza – 228 8 Avenue SE
Cost: Free entry
What: Hop on the Polar Express train ride at Aspen Crossing and travel to the North Pole this week! Complete with hot cocoa, cookies, and movie characters, this event will bring the magical train from the beloved book and movie to life this holiday season! You’ll even get to hear a reading of The Polar Express as the journey begins.
Where: Box 30, Mossleigh, Alberta (one kilometre west of Mossleigh on Highway #24)
When: Fridays to Sundays, November 22 to December 15, and December 16 to 24
Tickets: Available online, varies by day and train
What: Grab your jersey and cheer on the Flames this Thursday as they skate off against the Tampa Bay Lightning at the Scotiabank Saddledome!
When: December 3 at 7 pm
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome — 555 Saddledome Rise SE
Cost: Tickets start at $35.18; get them here
What: Spend your weekdays full of wonder at the Telus Spark Science Centre. Head over to the centre to be mesmerized by its Digital Immersion Gallery and jaw-dropping shows at the Infinity Dome. This place is bound to leave you awestruck!
When: Sundays to Fridays from 9 am to 4 pm; Saturdays from 9 am to 7 pm
Where: Telus Spark Science Centre – 220 Saint George’s Drive NE
Price: Various tickets are available; tickets can be purchased here
What: The Jubilations Theatre is hosting All Those Rolling Stones, and the show is sure to take you on a whirlwind journey through the ’60s and ’70s. Rock out to some classic tunes, fill your belly with some delicious food, and leave the theatre with a huge grin on your face after a spectacular evening!
When: Running until January 11, 2025
Where: Jubilations Dinner Theatre — 1002 37th Street SW
Price: Tickets start at $75.95 and can be purchased here
What: Explore the amazing stalls at the Crossroads Farmers’ Market this Friday. You can purchase some cute trinkets for your mantlepiece or buy all the ingredients you need for a delicious weekend meal from local vendors.
When: Open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday year-round from 9 am to 5 pm
Where: 1235 26th Avenue SE
What: The Gasoline Alley Museum is the ideal weekday trip for vintage car lovers. Step into this museum and be transported back into the world of old automobiles with its vast collection of antique vehicles and artifacts.
When: Tuesdays to Sundays from 10 am to 4 pm
Where: Heritage Park — 1900 Heritage Drive SW
Cost: Tickets start at $14.95 for adults (16+) and $8.95 for children (3-15) and can be purchased here.
What: If you’re missing some greenery with all the snowfall around the city, check out one of the DIY workshops at Plant. There are so many fun activities to do, and you can even start decorating for the holiday season by learning how to make your own wreath.
Visit a cute bookstore
What: With the chilly weather outside, we can’t think of a better way to enjoy winter than with a good book. Calgary has so many amazing bookshops to check out, so head over to one of the amazing spots in the city and fill your bags with stories that can last you through the entire winter.