Looking to create the ultimate holiday bucket list in Calgary? Whether you’re a local or visiting for the season, the city is full of magical, cozy, and festive things to do. Here’s a curated list of the top, can’t-miss experiences you need to try this holiday season — perfect for a cute date night, a festive outing with your besties, or a little solo winter magic!
Enchanted Festival at Spruce Meadows
When: December 5-7, 12-14, 19-24, 2025 from 5-9PM
Where: 18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW, Calgary AB
Enjoy an enchanting evening at the brand-new Enchanted Festival at Spruce Meadows! Wander beneath glowing lights and crackling fire pits, complete with delicious seasonal bites, live entertainment, a hint of holiday shopping, with cozy indoor attractions ranging from family films to a Christmas Lights Maze and interactive displays.
ZOOLIGHTS at The Calgary Zoo
When: November 14, 2025 – January 4th, 2026
Where: 210 St George’s Dr NE, Calgary AB
Now in its 29th year, ZOOLIGHTS—presented by Olympia Trust Company—returns with a spectacular new glow, transforming the zoo into a breathtaking landscape of colour, creativity, and holiday magic.
Stroll through luminous displays, wander beneath glittering installations, and soak in the warmth of a truly festive atmosphere at the 29th annual ZOOLIGHTS. Each night offers something new to discover, from axe throwing and hands-on activities to cozy treats and fun animal-themed insights.
Miracle on First Street at Proof Cocktail Bar
When: November 17 – December 31, 2025
Where: 1302 First St SW, Calgary AB
Step into Calgary’s most iconic Christmas pop-up bar at Miracle on First Street, taking over the Proof Cocktail Bar space. Awarded the 16th spot in Canada’s Top 100 Bars, these festive cocktails are sure to blow your mind perfect for any holiday date idea!
The Polar Express at Aspen Crossing
When: November 21 to December 24th
Where: Mossleigh AB
Make this Christmas one to remember with an unforgettable family adventure aboard the Polar Express at Aspen Crossing. Inspired by the beloved film, this immersive holiday experience invites you to slip into your coziest pyjamas, gather your favourite people, and step into a world of festive wonder as the train journeys toward the North Pole.
Banff Christmas Market
When: November 20-23 & 28-30, December 5-7 & 12-14
Where: Banff Heritage Train Station, Banff AB
The 2025 Banff Christmas Market brings classic European holiday vibes to the heart of the Canadian Rockies, creating a festive experience unlike any other. Visitors can explore more than 175 artisanal vendors, enjoy live music, warm up by the outdoor fire lounge, visit Santa’s House & Workshop, and indulge in seasonal treats and cozy drinks all in the heart of the Rockies!
Sippin’ Santa at Ricardo’s Hideaway
When: August 16-18, 2024
Where: 1530 Fifth St SW, Calgary AB
Escape the cold and slip into a tropical twist on the holidays at Ricardo’s Hideaway, where their festive pop-up transforms the space into a warm, island-inspired retreat. Sip on holiday-themed tropical cocktails and enjoy a playful, intimate setting that’s perfect for date night, a night out with friends, or anyone craving a little seasonal cheer with a Caribbean flair!
Watch How the Grinch Stole Christmas at The Grand
When: December 5th, 2025 | Featurette: 6pm | Movie Starts: 7pm
Where: 608 1st St SW, Calgary, AB
Whether you’re feeling festive or a little Grinchy yourself, this double feature at The Grand of the original cartoon and iconic Jim Carry version promises laughter, nostalgia, and a whole lot of heart. Cozy sweaters, Santa hats, and Whoville-worthy outfits are highly encouraged to grab photos with the Grinch himself in style!
Alberta Ballet’s ‘The Nutcracker’
When: December 12-24, 2025
Where: 1415 14 Avenue NW, Calgary AB
A cherished holiday tradition returns with a bold new twist as Alberta Ballet presents an all-new Nutcracker at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium, reimagined by Artistic Director Francesco Ventriglia. This December, experience the beloved story like never before, with dazzling choreography, striking new sets and costumes, and a fresh wave of holiday magic.
Merry & Matter at Telus Spark
When: November 12 – January 4, 2026
Where: 220 St. George’s Drive NE, Calgary, AB
Step into the magic of the season at Spark, where twinkling lights, snowflakes, and cozy moments set the perfect scene for a holiday date. Wander through Goodnight Moon in the Digital Immersion Gallery, snuggle up for Backyard Wilderness in the planetarium, and explore space together with Pixelarious VR. Share treats, laughter, and festive wonder in a scientific holiday experience made for two!
Holiday Wonder
When: November 27 – January 3, 2026
Location: BMO Centre, Stampede Park, Calgary, AB
Calgary’s newest festive escape, Holiday Wonder is an indoor, immersive Christmas experience that brings the season to life like never before. Step into a glittering wonderland with millions of dazzling lights, festive attractions, and unforgettable moments. Perfect for creating new holiday traditions together!
CPKC Holiday Train
Get into the festive spirit with a date at the CPKC Holiday Train! In its 27th year, this dazzling, music-filled train spreads holiday cheer while raising funds and collecting food for those in need. Snuggle up together along the tracks to enjoy the free live concerts, twinkling lights, and heartwarming holiday vibes.
Dec 9 – Innisfail: Jade Eagleson & Teigen Gayse, 50 Street railway crossing, 12:55–1:25 PM
Dec 9 – Olds: Jade Eagleson & Teigen Gayse, 50 Street railway crossing, 2:30–3:00 PM
Dec 9 – Didsbury: Jade Eagleson & Teigen Gayse, 20 Street & 18 Avenue, 3:45–4:15 PM
Dec 9 – Airdrie: Jade Eagleson & Teigen Gayse, Nose Creek Park, 5:30–6:00 PM
Dec 12 – Calgary: Barenaked Ladies, Anderson C-Train Station, 7:00–7:30 PM
Dec 13 – Okotoks: Barenaked Ladies, Daggett Street between Veterans Way and Northridge Drive, Okotoks, Alberta, 12:15–12:45 PM
Theatre Calgary’s ‘A Christmas Carol’
When: November 28 – December 31, 2025
Where: 220 9th Ave SE, Calgary, AB
As an iconic holiday tradition in Calgary, ‘A Christmas Carol‘ has graced the Theatre Calgary stages for 37 years and is a must-do this holiday season. Follow as Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by three spirits who guide him through his past, present, and future, revealing the true meaning of the season with stunning sets, beautiful costumes, and the return of Doug McKeag as Scrooge!
Airdrie Festival of Lights
When: December 1–31, 2025
Where: 1691 Main St S, Airdrie, AB
Arguably one of the best holiday light displays in the Calgary area, the Airdrie Festival of Lights brings Nose Creek Park to life every December with thousands of lights, fire pits to cuddle up next to, train rides for the kiddos, and of course ice skating on the pond making it 100% worth the short drive north.
Fa La La La La Lounge Holiday Pop Up Bar
When: November 14 – December 23, 2025
Where: 9919 Fairmount Dr SE, Calgary AB
Hosted by TOPS Pizza South, the Fa La La La La Lounge invites Calgarians for the first time to step into a festive wonderland of twinkling lights, giant ornaments, holiday décor, handcrafted cocktails like the Mistletoe Martini and Santa’s Snowglobe Spritz, Instagrammable treats, and seasonal bites, promising a joyful, merry, and memorable holiday date night.
Nighrise at the Banff Gondola
When: November 22 – March 29, 2026
Where: Sulphur Mountain Banff Gondola, Banff, AB
Bundle up and head to Banff for the ultimate winter getaway to experience Sulphur Mountain after dark at Nightrise‘s final season, where immersive art and Stoney Nakoda stories transform the summit into a moonlit wonderland. Complement the evening with dinner at Sky Bistro for the ultimate Banff Gondola date!
Looking for the ultimate gift guide to get your friends, family & partner the very best Canadian gifts this holiday season? Check out our seventh annual datenight Holiday Gift Guide here!
