Things to Do in Calgary & Surrounding Towns – December 2026

Looking for festive events, concerts, winter festivals, and family activities in Calgary, Alberta this December? Whether you’re a local or visiting for the holidays, the city and nearby towns are packed with holiday lights, markets, outdoor adventures, Christmas experiences, and free winter activities perfect for all ages.

This guide highlights must-see events, hidden gems, budget-friendly outings, and seasonal attractions to help you plan the perfect December!

Featured Holiday Events & Festivals (Calgary)

ZOOLIGHTS at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo

• Address: 210 St. George’s Dr NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7V6 To Do Canada+2Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo+2

• Pricing Range (based on recent years):

  • Adults (16+): From approx CAD $19.95 – $23+ for plan‑ahead pricing. websales.calgaryzoo.com+1

  • Children (3‑15): From approx CAD $12.45 – $15. To Do Canada+1

  • Special “Snow Globe” rental experience: approx CAD $180 per Snow Globe (2‑6 people) + additional fee per person based on theme. Travel Alberta

• Booking Recommendations:

  • Buy your tickets online in advance to get the “Plan‑Ahead” rates. Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo+1

  • Note that parking is charged (recently ~ CAD $13) at the North Gate. Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo

  • Choose a date early in the season for better availability and possibly lower prices.

  • Dress warmly and plan your visit in the early evening (5 pm onward) as lights displays start after dark.

  • For the Snow Globe experience, book before the date because they are limited.

Lions Festival of Lights

• Address: Confederation Park, Corner of 14 St NW & 24 Ave NW, Calgary, AB Family Fun Canada+2Wanderlog+2

• Pricing Range: Free to enter/drive‑through. Donations accepted. To Do Canada

• Booking Recommendations:

  • No ticket required — just drive or walk through after it opens (typically ~5:30 pm). Wanderlog+1

  • Visit just after dusk for best effect of lights.

  • Bring warm clothing; some areas may be dark or icy.

  • Consider going on a weekday to avoid heavy viewer traffic.

Spruce Meadows International Christmas Market

• Address: 18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW, Calgary, AB T2X 4B7 Visit Calgary+1

• Pricing Range:

  • Tickets available online; recent listings show options “Free – CAD $20+” depending on day and ticket type. To Do Canada+1

  • Premium food/culinary experiences (e.g., high tea, long‑table dinner) from ~ CAD $69 – $125+ per person. Spruce Meadows

• Booking Recommendations:

  • Purchase tickets ahead of time (online) to secure preferred date and pricing. Visit Calgary+1

  • Check the schedule — the market typically runs across multiple weekends (e.g., mid to late November and early December). Spruce Meadows+1

  • Arrive early in the day if visiting with kids or want quieter browsing.

  • If doing the premium dine‑in experiences, reserve early — these sell out fast.

Calgary Christmas Market (at Calgary Farmers’ Market)

• Locations:

  • Deerfoot location: 510 77 Ave SE, Calgary, AB

  • West location: 25 Greenbriar Dr NW, Calgary, AB

• Estimated pricing range:

  • Entry generally free or low cost for the market portion (recent vendor markets at Calgary Farmers’ Market list “Full Season” vendor options for 6 weeks from ~Nov 12‑Dec 23) Calgary Farmers' Market+2Calgary Farmers' Market+2

  • Additional paid activities (photos with Santa, cookie‑decorating) may incur small fees on site (specific 2026 rates not yet published).

• Booking recommendations:

  • Check the Calgary Farmers’ Market website events page for the exact December 2026 dates and vendor lists. Calgary Farmers' Market+1

  • Arrive earlier in the day if you plan to do kids’ activities (cookie decorating, Santa photos) to avoid long queues.

  • Free parking is available at the market (check specific lot for your location).

  • If looking for unique local‑vendor gifts, bring a shopping list and be ready for crowds on weekends.

A Christmas Carol – Theatre Calgary

• Location: Arts Commons (also cited as Max Bell Theatre), 205 8 Ave SE, Calgary, AB Arts Commons+1

• Estimated pricing range:

  • Past years show tickets from CAD $49 up to CAD $114 depending on seating section. Theatre Calgary+1

• Booking recommendations:

  • Secure your tickets as soon as the 2026 run is published (typically early fall) since this is a very popular holiday show.

  • Select your preferred seating zone (orchestra vs balcony) — earlier bookings generally give better choice.

  • Consider matinee (afternoon) shows for families.

  • Check for student/senior discounts.

  • Review refund/cancellation policy in case of schedule changes.

Holiday Concerts at the Jack Singer Concert Hall

• Address: 225 8 Ave SE, Calgary, AB Werklund Centre+1

• Estimated pricing range:

  • Ticket prices for concerts vary widely; recent listings show jazz/pop/symphony concerts in this venue from ~$30‑100+ depending on performance. To Do Canada+1

• Booking recommendations:

  • Monitor the venue’s event calendar (via Arts Commons or the Concert Hall website) for December 2026 holiday concert dates. Werklund Centre

  • Choose your preferred style (choir, symphony, pop holiday concert) and book early.

  • Premium seats (front orchestra) will go fastest for seasonal shows.

  • Arrive early to enjoy lobby amenities and pre‑show festive ambience.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks – Downtown Calgary

• Address: Olympic Plaza & City Hall, 228 8 Ave SE, Calgary, AB https://www.calgary.ca+1

• Estimated pricing range:

  • Free to attend the fireworks viewing in the public outdoor space. Some associated events (e.g., VIP countdown parties) may have fees. Visit Calgary+1

• Booking recommendations:

  • No ticket needed for general outdoor public viewing — plan to arrive early (before ~10 pm) to secure a good vantage point.

  • Dress warmly and plan for winter conditions (dress in layers, hats/gloves).

  • Public transit or ride‑share recommended as parking will be limited/expensive.

  • Check official City of Calgary website for the confirmed 2026 event schedule and any road closures or programming details. https://www.calgary.ca

Family-Friendly Winter Activities (Calgary)

Ice Skating at Olympic Plaza (Free)

• Address: 228 8 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2P 0G5. Visit A City+1

• Pricing / Estimate: Often advertised as free to use as a public rink. 

• Booking / Visit Recommendations:

  • Since it’s free public skating, no ticketing required — just show up during open hours.

  • Check current season’s status — note: one City of Calgary page says the rink at Olympic Plaza was not provided in a certain year due to construction of a new arts venue. https://www.calgary.ca

  • Bring or rent skates; rentals may be available on‑site (check local skate‑hut or rental vendor).

  • Arrive earlier in the day or in non‑peak hours for fewer crowds, especially for families or less experienced skaters.

  • Dress warmly (gloves, hat, layered clothing) and check for ice conditions (weather may affect availability).

  • Use nearby public transit or plan for downtown parking — this plaza is central and busy.

Winter Walk at Prince’s Island Park (Free)

• Address: 698 Eau Claire Ave SW (approx), Calgary, AB. (Park entrance central around that address) To Do Canada+1

• Pricing / Estimate: Free to enter and use the park and its pathways. To Do Canada+1

• Visit Recommendations:

  • Ideal for a scenic winter stroll: along the Bow River, with city‑skyline and nature views.

  • Use proper footwear for snowy/icy paths. Consider boots or winter shoes with good grip.

  • Capture photo‑worthy moments around the river, bridges, and city backdrop.

  • Bring a warm drink, maybe a thermos, for after your walk.

  • If parking downtown, allow extra time for winter road/parking conditions or use transit.

  • Visit earlier in the afternoon for better light for photos.

Hot Chocolate Fest Warm-Up Events (Sneak-Peak Tastings)

• Concept / What to Expect: Late‑December pop‑up events where you sample gourmet hot chocolate at participating cafés around Calgary. Great for cozy winter leads‑up to the holidays.

• Pricing / Estimate: Varies by café; likely small fee per tasting or included in café visit (e.g., CAD $5–CAD $10+ depending on specialty drink) — specific 2026 pricing not published yet.

• Visit / Booking Recommendations:

  • Watch for announcements in early December for which cafés are participating.

  • Consider booking for special tasting sessions if cafés limit capacity.

  • Map out a “hot chocolate crawl” — pick 3‑4 cafés within one area to walk between.

  • Dress warm (your beverage will be warm but the walk between cafés can be cold).

  • Ideal for couples, friends, or family cozy outings.

Day Trips & Surrounding Towns

Banff Christmas Market

• Address: The historic Train Station area, Banff, AB (near Warner St & Moose St) The Banff Blog+2Banff Christmas Market+2

• Pricing range:

  • Single‑day adult tickets recently from ~ CAD $15 (plus GST) for early purchase. Banff Christmas Market+1

  • Weekend passes up to ~ CAD $36 (adult) for unlimited weekend entry. Banff Christmas Market

• Booking recommendations:

  • Purchase early‑bird tickets when they go on sale (often September/October). Banff Christmas Market+1

  • Choose a weekend date; market often runs multiple weekends (e.g., late Nov → early Dec). Banff Christmas Market+1

  • Arrive early for best selection of artisan vendors, live music, and photo opportunities.

  • Consider staying overnight in Banff when attending for a more relaxed experience.

In Search of Christmas Spirit (Banff Outdoor Light Experience)

• Address: Cascade of Time Garden (Cave Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1K2) To Do Canada+2Banff & Lake Louise Tourism+2

• Pricing range:

  • The experience is free in terms of admission fee, but tickets (free or buyable) are required for timed entry. The Banff Blog+1

• Booking recommendations:

  • Reserve your ticket ahead of time — this event often sells out for prime dates. SimpleTix+1

  • Visit on select nights (typically evenings from mid‑Nov through Dec) when the lights, story trail and sound effects are active. The Banff Blog+1

  • Dress warmly — the entire experience is outdoors and winter conditions apply.

  • Arrive somewhat early so you can enjoy the trail, take photos, and not feel rushed.

Canmore Festival of Lights

• Address: Downtown Canmore, AB (exact centre/park spaces) Facebook+1

• Pricing range: Free access for general light‑display walking, food trucks, live music in many years. (Special events may incur fees—not always specified)

• Booking recommendations:

  • No ticket needed for general light displays; go during the month of December (e.g., Dec 1–31) for the full festive atmosphere.

  • Use downtown parking or public transit, as winter traffic and parking can be busy.

  • Plan for early evening visits (~5 pm onward) when lights are visible but not overly late for families.

  • Combine with a stay in Canmore for a full mountain village holiday vibe.

Ski & Snowboard Adventures (Day Trips)

Sunshine Village – 1 Sunshine Access Rd, Banff, AB

• Address: 1 Sunshine Access Rd, Banff, AB T1L 1J2

• Pricing range:

  • Adult full‑day lift tickets: CAD $140‑$170 based on 2025/26 pricing. SnowStash+2Post Hotel & Spa+2

  • Youth (13‑17): approx CAD $110‑$140. SnowStash+1

  • Child (6‑12): approx CAD $70‑$90. SnowStash+1

  • Note: Weekend / peak holiday pricing may be higher.

• Booking recommendations:

  • Purchase lift tickets online in advance to secure better pricing and guarantee access. Many resorts raise prices closer to the day or for holiday periods.

  • Download the mobile ticket app (for Sunshine Village: “Ski Banff” app) to use mobile lift ticket codes. Sunshine Village

  • Plan for early arrival, especially during holiday season and weekends — parking may fill and gondola load times may increase.

  • Dress in layers, bring proper winter gear; check weather and road/parking conditions for the access drive.

  • Consider half‑day or afternoon tickets as a lower‑cost alternative if full day is too much — especially for families or less experienced skiers.

Lake Louise Ski Resort – 1 Whitehorn Rd, Lake Louise, AB

• Address: 1 Whitehorn Rd, Lake Louise, AB T0L 1E0

• Pricing range:

  • Full‑day lift tickets (Adult 18‑64): approx CAD $78‑$175 depending on date & availability. Skilouise+1

  • Youth (13‑17): approximately CAD $59‑$135. Skilouise

  • Child (6‑12): approx CAD $29‑$67. Skilouise

  • Half‑day (from ~12:30 pm) options available. Skilouise+1

• Booking recommendations:

  • Pre‑purchase online for early‑season savings (they often announce “save up to” deals for early‑buy). Skilouise

  • Choose between full‑day or half‑day lift tickets depending on your schedule and energy level — half‑day can be a good value.

  • Check for bundle deals (e.g., lift + rentals + lessons) especially useful for newcomers or families.

  • Arrive early for the first gondola/first lift if you want optimal ski early timeframe; or consider later start if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

Airdrie Festival of Lights

• Address: Nose Creek Park, 1691 Main St S, Airdrie, AB The Banff Blog

• Pricing range: Free admission for the light display and associated family‐friendly rides/visits.

• Booking recommendations:

  • Attend during December (1–31) for full display of lights, vendor markets and Santa visits.

  • Arrive earlier in the evening for better access to vendor areas before crowds gather.

  • Bring a thermos or warm beverage for comfortable strolls.

Okotoks Holiday Light Tour (Self-Guided & Free)

• Address: Downtown Okotoks, AB (self‑guided tour of decorated streets)

• Pricing range: Free to participate — it’s a self‑guided stroll of festive decorations.

• Booking recommendations:

  • Pick a route ahead, arrive at dusk for the best lighting effect.

  • Consider pairing with hot chocolate from a local café.

  • Dress warmly, bring gloves and good footwear for winter walk.

Festival Hall Craft Beer & Live Music Nights

• Address: 1215 10 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0W6. Wanderlog+1

• Pricing range: Ticket prices vary depending on the band/event; recent events at the venue list general admission from around CAD $20–$40+ (varies by artist).

• Booking recommendations:

  • Check the Festival Hall website or event‑listing platforms for the December 2026 schedule.

  • Buy tickets in advance for more popular shows, especially holiday or seasonal music nights.

  • Arrive early if you want to enjoy craft beer offerings and secure good seating standing‑space.

  • Be aware that parking in Inglewood can be tight during popular nights, so consider public transit or ride‑share.

Heritage Park Once Upon a Christmas Festival

• Address: 1900 Heritage Dr SW, Calgary, AB T2V 2X3. Heritage Park+1

• Pricing range:

  • Recent event pricing: Adult (16+) ~ CAD $19.95 + GST, Child (3‑15) ~ CAD $14.95 + GST for the “Once Upon a Christmas” event. Heritage Park+1

• Booking recommendations:

  • Because it’s offered on certain weekends in December, check the 2026 schedule (weekends in December) and book your preferred date early.

  • Purchase online tickets ahead of time to secure your spot and avoid lines.

  • Arrive early in the day (many events start around 10 a.m.) so you can enjoy all activities (wagon rides, carolers, Santa visits) before dusk or closing.

  • Dress warmly (outdoor and partially outdoor event) and plan for families/kids-friendly pacing.

TELUS Spark Science Centre – Sparkle Sparkle Light Festival

• Address: 220 St. George’s Dr NE, Calgary, AB T2E 5T2. 

• Pricing range:

  • General admission to TELUS Spark: Adult (18–64) CAD ~$32.95, Child (3–17) CAD ~$23.95. WhichMuseum+1

  • For the special “light festival” event periods (late November–January), there may be additional event‑specific ticketing or timed entry — check their website closer to 2026.

• Booking recommendations:

  • Monitor the Spark website for the “Sparkle Sparkle Light Festival” 2026 dates and ticket launch.

  • Select a timed‑entry slot if required (to manage crowding).

  • Consider combining it with an earlier visit to general exhibits for a full day.

  • Arrive after dusk for best lighting effect; bring a camera and warm outerwear.

Other Things to Do in December

Walk through Stephen Avenue winter lighting

• Address: Stephen Avenue (8 Ave SW between roughly 1 St SE and 3 St SW), Downtown Calgary, AB.

• Pricing / Estimate: Free to walk and enjoy the light displays; no tickets required.

• Visit Recommendations:

  • Visit after dusk for best lighting effect when winter gloom meets decorative lights.

  • Dress warmly: it’s outdoor and exposed to downtown winter wind.

  • Combine your walk with a stop at a café, bookstore or gallery along Stephen Avenue.

  • Consider visiting right after a holiday‑lighting event or festival (for example, the winter festival “Chinook Blast” uses Stephen Avenue as a hub) for more installations and ambiance. Visit Calgary+1

  • Use transit or park in a downtown lot; avoid peak traffic times.

Tobogganing at St. Andrew’s Heights (1108 26 Ave NW)

• Address: According to the community association, the hill is associated with the St. Andrew’s Heights area; one mention lists “2504 13 Ave NW” as the hill location. rossaitken.ca+2standrewsheights.ca+2

• Pricing / Estimate: Free to use the hill/sledding area (you bring your sled/toy).

• Visit Recommendations:

  • Bring your own sled, toboggan or plastic saucer; ensure it's suitable for long/steep hill.

  • Dress in full winter gear: gloves, waterproof pants, helmet if needed.

  • Check weather/ice/snow conditions before going; after large snowfalls or thaw cycles the hill may be different.

  • For safety: check local signage, avoid crowded times, watch for run‑out zone.

  • It’s a great family outing—especially for kids with more energy and older children/adults who like speed.

  • Arrive early to secure parking near the hill and avoid dusk when conditions may worsen.

Calgary Central Library holiday programming (800 3 St SE)

• Address: 800 3 St SE, Calgary, AB. calgarylibrary.ca+1

• Pricing / Estimate: General entry to the library is free. Programming varies, many events are free—some may require registration. calgarylibrary.ca+1

• Visit Recommendations:

  • Check the library’s event calendar for December 2026 holiday programs (storytimes, craft workshops, performances).

  • Register ahead for specific programs if required (especially children’s craft or special holiday sessions).

  • Visit in the afternoon or early evening to combine quiet library time with downtown holiday lights.

  • Great backup plan if outdoor weather is too cold or snowy—indoors, warm and relaxing.

  • Bring family – many programs cater to children, teens, and families.

Winter RiverWalk at East Village

• Address: The RiverWalk spans along the Bow River between Centre Street Bridge and 9th Ave SE in Calgary’s East Village.

• Pricing / Estimate: Free to walk; no ticket required.

• Visit Recommendations:

  • An excellent winter stroll location: scenic riverside, city skyline reflection, quiet atmosphere.

  • Go at dusk to catch the light of the setting sun and early lights along the river.

  • Wear sturdy winter boots / slip‑resistant footwear — paths may be icy or snowy.

  • Combine your walk with a stop at a café in East Village for hot chocolate or warm drink.

  • Great for couples, families, photo lovers and anyone seeking a quieter winter outing.

BONUS: Special Experiences to Try

Fondue at the Fairmont Palliser

• Address: 133 9 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 2M3. Fairmont+2Fairmont+2

• Pricing range: While a dedicated “fondue menu” wasn’t clearly displayed for this hotel, the dining venue shows mains in the CAD $28+ range and premium items significantly higher. hawthorndiningroom.ca+1

• Booking recommendations:

  • Visit the hotel’s dining page and select “Book a Table” for Hawthorn Dining Room & Bar. Fairmont+1

  • Specify your interest in a fondue or winter‑holiday special menu.

  • Best to reserve early for December evening slots (e.g., 6 pm, 7 pm).

  • Confirm any special holiday menu surcharge (often applies during peak season).

Horse-drawn sleigh ride in Banff

• Address: Warner Stables, Sundance Road, Banff, AB. Banff Trail Riders+1

• Pricing range:

  • Public sleigh rides: From approx CAD $39.90 per person for 40‑minute rides. Banff Trail Riders+1

  • Private sleigh (two people): From approx CAD $194.14 per booking (for two). Banff Trail Riders+1

  • Private family sleigh (four people): From approx CAD $291.60 per booking. Banff Trail Riders

• Booking recommendations:

  • Book online or call Banff Trail Riders; payment and reservation needed, especially for the Christmas/New Year period. Banff Trail Riders+1

  • Arrive at least 15 minutes early. travelocity

  • Dress warmly (open sleigh) and check weather/snow condition cancellation policies. travelocity

Cabin escape rentals in Kananaskis

• Location: Kananaskis Improvement District & surrounding area.

• Pricing range:

  • Listings show cabins from CAD $112 per night and up (depending on size/amenities) for certain times. expedia+1

  • Some upscale cabins run CAD $250+ per night, or even higher in peak winter/holiday. travelocity+1

• Booking recommendations:

  • Use sites like Expedia, VRBO, Airbnb to filter for dates in December 2026 and required amenities (hot tub, fireplace, winter access).

  • Reserve several months ahead (holiday season high demand).

  • Confirm winter access (road clearing, power/heating), minimum night stays and cancellation policies.

Lake Minnewanka ice bubbles photography

• Area: Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive, Banff, AB (in Banff National Park). The Banff Blog+1

• Pricing / Entry Fee:

  • You’ll need a park pass: for example, adult fee ~ CAD $72.25 per adult for a day pass in Banff National Park. Banff National Park+1

  • Alternatively, a Discovery Pass (valid for year) may be ~ CAD $75 for an adult. Parks Canada+1

• Booking/recommendation tips:

  • Purchase the park pass online via Parks Canada. Banff & Lake Louise Tourism+1

  • Go early in the winter season (December/January) for best ice bubble visibility.

  • Bring/or rent ice cleats, winter gear; check trail/road conditions.

  • Stay nearby (Banff or Canmore) for early morning access.