Calgary 
From fabulous theatre events to enchanting lights, here is a short list of ideas for things to do during this Christmas break in Calgary.
Credit: Calgary Zoo
1. Christmas Sleigh Rides
- Round up the whole family for horse-drawn sleigh rides this holiday season at Horsin Around. Horsin Around will be offering a 30-minute sleigh ride with complimentary hot chocolate and a campfire to warm up to! December 20 to January 1 @ Horsin Around, 3729 – 146 Ave SW Calgary
- Bring the family to enjoy a private bobsleigh ride pulled by Belgian Draft horses through trails lit up with Christmas lights and decorations. Enjoy hot chocolate around a fire pit. @ Hammer Hill Stables, 233016 TWP 232, Wheatland County
2. Go on a Christmas Lights Tour
Legacy Christmas Lights
Enjoy the best time of the year in all its glory with your Family.
- ZOOLIGHTS — until January 4, 2026
- Lions Festival of Lights — until January 8, 2026 @ Confederation Park
- Nightrise— until March 29, 2026 @ Banff Gondola, 100, Mountain Avenue, Banff
- Airdrie Festival of Lights — December 31, 2025
- In Search of Christmas Spirit — Until December 31, 2025 @ Banff Park Museum, 91 Banff Ave, Banff
- Legacy Christmas Light Parade — Until January 4, 2026 @ Legacy Circle Southeast, Calgary
- Holiday Wonder — Until January 3, 2026 @ BMO Centre
- Enchanted Festival — Until December 24, 2025 @ Spruce Meadows, Calgary
3. Once Upon a Christmas
Experience the magic of Christmas at Heritage Park with the holiday magic and festive displays of Once Upon A Christmas. Enjoy classic indoor and outdoor Christmas activities with the whole family, like horse-drawn wagon rides, visits with Santa, crafts, music, entertainment, and so much more!
When: Until December 23, 2025
Where: Heritage Park, 1900 Heritage Dr. S.W. Calgary
How Much: $14.95 to $29.95 +fees
4. Calgary Nativity Pageant
A traditional Christmas Nativity pageant with live actors, live animals, outdoor lighting and sound.
Made possible thanks to volunteers from the Calgary interfaith community, the Pageant combines a cast of 15-20 fully costumed adults and children, moving narration, full sound and lighting production, a staged set and live animals to create a beautiful presentation of the Christmas story.
When: December 19 to 21, 2025 | 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Where: 2526 24th Ave. NW, Calgary
How Much: Free
5. Stampede Christmas
Trade your cowboy boots for snow boots and rein in a merry Western Christmas. Join the community to enjoy dazzling lights, hot cocoa, live entertainment and more FREE festive fun. Enjoy an evening under the lights with sparkling installations, meet Harry the Horse, take in the sights of holiday entertainment, sip hot cocoa next to a crackling fire, partake in festive crafts and more. The celebration continues with a free pancake brunch, appearances by Stampede Royalty and Harry the Horse, and more entertainment, hot cocoa, crafts and other family-friendly activities. Details
When: Friday, January 3, 2025 | 9:30 PM – 3:00 PM
Where: BMO Centre Lawn/Plaza at Stampede Park, 1912 Flores LaDue Parade SE, Calgary
How Much: Free
6. Fun with Calgary Public Library
Celebrate the festive season with Winter Wonderland at Central Library and Memorial Park Library! Throughout the month, enjoy an array of family-friendly activities tailored for all ages. It’s a perfect opportunity to gather, have fun, and create lasting memories with loved ones in the heart of winter’s magic.
When: Until December 22, 2024
Where: Central Library and Memorial Park Library
How Much: Free
7. Horizon of Khufu: A Journey in Ancient Egypt
Explore Egypt without leaving Calgary. In a space of nearly 10,000 square feet, visitors will be transported to Cairo and they will be able to freely wander through Ancient Egypt. With friends or family, the public will be invited to discover and uncover another era!
When: Until January 3, 2026
Where: CF Chinook Centre, 6455 Macleod Trail, Calgary
How Much: $24.35 & up
Canada Strong Pass
Free admission for all visitors to national historic sites and national parks, and discounted admission to provincial museums.
- Parks Canada: Free admission for all visitors to national historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas administered by Parks Canada.
25% discount on camping fees. - National museums and the Plains of Abraham Museum, Provincial Museums: Free admission for children aged 17 and under and a 50% discount for young adults aged 18 to 24.
National Parks & Historic Sites in Alberta to visit during winter:
- Waterton, Banff, Jasper, Elk Island
- Banff Park Museum National Historic Site, Cave and Basin National Historic Site
Museums:
- Reynolds Museum (Wetaskiwin)
- Remington Carriage Museum (Cardston)
- Frank Slide Interpretive Centre (Frank)
- Oil Sands Discovery Centre (Fort McMurray)
- Royal Tyrrell Museum (Drumheller)
- Royal Alberta Museum (Edmonton)
- Rutherford House Provincial Historic Site (Edmonton)
- Lougheed House (Calgary)
- Head-Smashed-On Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site (Fort Macleod)
8. Enjoy Family Fun Theatre & Concerts
a. Christmas Concerts
- Fiddle Fantasia – Saturday, December 20 | 3 PM @ University Theatre, 230 University Crt NW, Calgary
- Sing-Along Messiah – Saturday, December 20 at 3:00 pm @ Knox United Church 506 4 St SW, Calgary
- Christmas Time Is Here! – Saturday, December 20, 2025 | 2 – 3:30pm @ Bethany Chapel Of Calgary, 3333 Richardson Way Southwest, Calgary
- Soweto Gospel Choir: Peace – December 21, 2025 | 7:30 PM @ Jack Singer Concert Hall
- Calgary Jazz Orchestra “A Perfectly Frank Christmas” – December 21, 2025 | 3:00 pm and 7:00 pm @ Bella Concert Hall
b. The Nutcracker – Alberta Ballet
In this beloved family tale, Klara and her Nutcracker travel to an unknown kingdom, battle the dark magic of the Rat Tsar and dance with the courtiers of the Sugar Plum Fairy. 120 incredible performers bring Klara’s journey to life, decked out in stunning costumes and accompanied by a live orchestra.
When: Until December 24, 2025
Where: Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium — 1415 14 Ave. NW, Calgary
How Much: $82 & up
c. Petey Paan’s Christmas Pirate Adventure
Petey Paan is living free in the land where you never grow old, but the Pirates on their ship aren’t fans of Petey Paan’s games. In fact, they might want to cancel Christmas altogether. Come join the adventure as Petey has to find a way to create peace on earth and do goodwill toward Pirate men, but before he does… there might be some sword fights.
A production written for kids, and a meal designed with kids in mind! Join us for a fun-filled morning of laughter, music and food!
When: Until Saturday January 10, 2026
Where: Jubilations Dinner Theatre, 1002 37 Street SW, Calgary
How Much:$43.95-46.95
d. The Adventures of a Wooden Boy
Inspired by the classic Pinocchio story (by Carlo Collodi) of a wooden puppet who dreams of becoming a real boy, and Buratino’s tale (by Alexei Tolstoy) of cleverness, adventure, and the fight for freedom, this performance is re imagined with a fresh twist.
When: Sunday, December 28t 2025, from 02:00pm to 03:30pm
Where: Brookfield Residential YMCA at Seton, 4995 Market Street Southeast, Calgary
How Much: $30
e. Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow!
Join Stage West for the children’s version of dinner theatre. For starters, Stage West displays an incredible “kid friendly buffet” complete with all the favourites … hot dogs, pizza, ice cream and much more.
When: Until December 24, 2025
Where: Stage West Calgary, 727 – 42 Avenue SE, Calgary
How Much: $43.05 – $49.35
f. The Wizard of Oz
When a tornado sweeps young Dorothy Gale over the rainbow, she lands in the magical land of Oz. Joined by a Scarecrow, a Tin Man, and a Cowardly Lion, Dorothy sets off on a grand adventure down the Yellow Brick Road to try and find the mysterious Wizard of Oz – the only one who can send her back home to Kansas. But the Wicked Witch of the West has other plans for her.
When: January 4, 2026
Where: Martha Cohen Theatre, 215 8 Ave SE, Calgary
How Much: $35-$96.
g. Miracle on 34th Street
With the support of a determined attorney, and the belief of a young girl named Susan, Kris Kringle takes on the cynics in this musical adaptation of this holiday classic. Based on the movie of the same name, by the writer of the musical theatre classic “The Music Man,” the heart of this show invites all to embrace their own courage to believe—whether in Santa Claus, the goodness of people, or the power of faith itself.
When: Until December 30, 2025
Where: Beddington Theatre Arts Centre, 375 Bermuda Dr NW, Calgary
How Much: $28 – $38
h. Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
Experience Howard Shore’s Academy Award®-winning score performed live to the epic motion picture in HD. The 250 musicians on stage from the FILMharmonique Orchestra, Chronos Vocal Ensemble, Vocal Alchemy and Cantilon Children’s Choir will transport you to the heart of Middle-earth in the quest of the Fellowship of the Ring.
When: January 2 & 3, 2026
Where: Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium, 1415 14 Ave. NW, Calgary
How Much: $86 & up
i. Twilight In Concert
Celebrate the legendary romance saga in epic style with Twilight in Concert. Enjoy the original film on the big screen while the FILMharmonique Orchestra performs the entire soundtrack live, surrounded by the glow of 1000 candles.
When: Sunday, January 04, 2026 | 1:00 PM
Where: Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium, 1415 14 Ave. NW, Calgary
How Much: $60 & up
9. The Polar Express™ Train Ride
Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, families are sure to delight in their journey to the North Pole, complete with hot chocolate and cookies. Passengers will be entertained by many of the characters from the movie as well as a reading of The Polar Express™ book. Upon arrival at the North Pole, Santa will greet the children and each child will receive their own sleigh bell, just like in the movie, to those who BELIEVE.
When: Until December 24, 2025
Where: Aspen Crossing, 45 minutes southeast of Calgary
How Much: $118.27 & up for 2
10. Holiday Teas
End 2024 with a special tea at Heritage Park. Experience the warmth of Holiday Tea at the Famous 5 Centre, featuring freshly brewed tea, apple cider, and an assortment of baked goods and sandwiches. Your ticket also includes access to Gasoline Alley Museum’s vast antique vehicle collection and a special coupon for shopping at Heritage Plaza.
When: December 27 to 29, 2025
Where: Heritage Park, Calgary
How Much: $32.95 to $59.95
11. Go Tubing at Calgary’s Tube Park
Credit: Winsport Calgary
Visit Winsport Tube Park this winter, the largest of its kind in Western Canada! Calgary’s only tube park features 10 lanes, each 200 metres in length. OR enjoy activities including skiing, snowboarding, or skating at COP.
12. Circle K Classic U18AAA Tournament
Cheer future NHL stars! The Circle K Classic features Canada’s top U18AAA teams and prominent USA 18U teams.
When: December 27th to January 1st
Where: Various Venues, Calgary
How Much: $20 to $25
13. Do a Christmas Bird Count
Why not see how many winter birds you can find in Calgary? Count the birds that visit your backyard or go on a walk to see Alberta’s winter birds.
You can also join in for official Christmas bird count walks in the Calgary area.
14. Enjoy a Winter Walk
Calgary is home to some of the largest urban parks in all of Canada. Check out some of the best places to enjoy a walk in the snow.
What about a day trip to some frozen waterfalls?
Calgary’s location in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains offers a unique opportunity for some great scenic lookouts so that you can enjoy Calgary decked in snow.
15. See Some Night Lights
From bridges to buildings, some of these art displays light up the night year-round for Calgarians. Whether you want to go and see the new Telus Sky art display or an art display all aglow with artistic light, you’ll be amazed at these hidden gems across the city.
16. Outdoor Art Works
Looking for something new to do in Calgary while keeping the recommended physical distance? Check out these 25 Public Art Features! You can see many of them from your car or on a walk around the city. Look for local Calgarian artists’ work while you’re out and about.
17. Christmas Dinner at Home
There are plenty of options in Calgary for a delicious festive Christmas dinner for your immediate family only Christmas celebration during these trying times. Support local and choose from one of these take-home Christmas dinners from local restaurants and caterers’ kitchens.
18. Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing
Enjoy the beauty of Calgary’s snow-covered landscapes through cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Great places to check out include Shaganappi Point Golf Course, Confederation Golf Course, Canmore Park, Maple Ridge Golf Course, South Glenmore Park, Bowness Park and Fish Creek Provincial Park.
19. Tobogganing
Dig up your magic carpet and enjoy a ride down the hill.
20. Outdoor Skating & Ice Biking
Lace up and hit the outdoor skate rinks.
- Check out the Glenmore Ice Trail, and skating rink 7305 Crowchild Tr. S.W.
- Barb Scott Park, 12 Ave. and 9 St. S.W.
- Big Marlborough Park , 6033 Madigan Dr. N.E.
- Barb Scott Park, 12 Ave. and 9 St. S.W.
- Big Marlborough Park — 6033 Madigan Dr. N.E.
- Bowness Park, 8900 48 Ave. N.W. — Lagoon and ice trail — (rentals available including Ice Bike )
- Carburn Park — 67 Riverview Dr. S.E.
- Prairie Winds Park, 223 Castleridge Blvd. N.E.
- Prince’s Island Park Lagoon, 4 St. and 1 Ave. S.W.
- Thomson Family Park, 236 16 Ave. S.W.
21. Visit a Calgary Attraction
- Daily: 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM; Zoo Lights – 5.00 pm and ends at 9.00 pm.
- Festive Brunch: Specialty brunch menu features traditional breakfast items, cozy comfort foods and festive desserts! December 21 & 28.
Closed on December 25
December 25 CLOSED
Hours of activities vary.
Bow Habitat Station & Pearce Estate Park, Calgary
Outdoors Open daily.
Tuesday – Saturday: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Closed Sundays, Mondays and statutory holidays.
Closed Dec 25th.
10 am – 9 pm Daily,
Last ride up at 8:30 pm
Open 10 am – 4 pm on Christmas Eve
Confluence Historic Site & Parkland
Thursday – Sunday: 11 am – 4 pm
Open Tuesday – Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
-
Wednesday, Dec 24 2025: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
-
Wednesday, Dec 31 2025: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Closed December 25, 26 and January 1
Closed: Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Cold War Hangar: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
From thaw-dropping holiday lights to sizzlin’ science experiments and even a bark-tacular show – there’s something for everyone to melt over. Unlike those other holiday experiences, where you have to put on more layers than the Earth’s core to see festive lights, Spark has the heat cranked so you and the crew can celebrate in comfort – no snowsuit required!
Closed: Dec 25
December 24: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
December 26: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
December 27 – December 30: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
December 31: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
January 1: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
December 25 & January 1: Closed, Other Days: 10 am to 5 pm
Closed: Closed December 24, 25, 26, and January 1.
Tuesday-Sunday from 10AM-4PM.
Closed Mondays
Amusement Centres: When it’s freezing cold, and dripping wet, head to these indoor attractions in Calgary for fun.
22. Cheer Calgary’s Home Teams
Cheer Calgary Hitmen, Calgary Roughnecks and Calgary Flames at Scotiabank Saddledome.
23. Welcome 2026
24. Outdoor Winter Activities
City of Calgary
There’s so much to do in and around Calgary during winter. From downhill skiing to finding the best viewpoints of the city, you’re sure to find something to do this winter in Calgary. Make the most of it with these outdoor activities during these short sunny days of winter.
24. Visit a Provincial Park
Don’t miss your chance to explore some of Alberta’s parks this winter.
25. Banff Outdoor Activities
From late fall to early spring, Banff National Park turns into a winter wonderland, becoming a dreamland for all kinds of winter activities.
There are plenty of holiday activities this year.
While skiing may be why most people head to Banff National Park in the winter, there’s so much more to do than just that. We’ve rounded up 25 winter activities in Banff that aren’t skiing.
While there, embark on a tantalizing winter adventure with Banff and Lake Louise’s Hot Chocolate Trail! Imagine sipping over 20 unique, holiday-themed hot chocolates, each a cozy delight from different restaurants. It’s a festive treasure hunt for your taste buds.
26. Drumheller in Winter
Drumheller is located just northeast of Calgary and is a great winter destination for families or anyone looking to experience breathtaking and unique natural landscapes. There is plenty to do outdoors during winter in Drumheller.
27. Visit Waterton National Park
Slightly off the beaten track, located in the southeastern part of the province bordering the United States, Waterton National Park is a stunning area where the prairie meets the mountain. Phenomenal vistas, adventures, animals and experiences await you here. Step away from the busy areas and head south to find peace and quiet amid the sparkling, snow-covered scenery of Waterton.
28. Jasper Winter Activities
Surrounded by the spectacular Rocky Mountains, Jasper National Park offers unlimited recreational opportunities during winter — it’s the perfect destination for any outdoor or indoor activity. Whether your passion is snowboarding at Marmot Basin, browsing paintings by local artists at the Jasper Art Gallery, or tasting local craft beer in front of a snapping fire…Jasper has an unforgettable experience just waiting for you!
You may like:
25-Day Trip Waterfall Hikes from Calgary
25-Day Trips From Calgary to the Canadian Rockies
50 Fun Things to Do in Winter in Alberta
For other events, see Things to Do This Weekend in Calgary
If you can do these things in winter holidays in Calgary, then you’ll have a good time. I know a few people who are in Calgary right now, and they’re having a great time. They say Calgary is best this time of year.