The holiday season is in full swing and things are getting crazy AF. There are presents to be bought, halls to be decked and eggnog to be drank. Even though you have plenty of corporate parties, family dinners and friend cookie exchanges to attend, don’t let your relationship get pushed to the back burner. You’re supposed to be spending time with the ones you love right? Keep bae top of mind and surprise them with a few of our holiday date ideas:
1. Northern Reflections Window Exhibition
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Head downtown to check out the latest art installation in YYC. Art collective Buds of Buds partnered with Downtown Calgary to present the first ever urban art gallery through a series of painted windows. The gorgeous paintings incorporate augmented reality (AR) for people to engage with the art. The series was painted by a variety of local artists and stretch throughout the downtown core turning the streets into a grand urban art-walk.
2. Zoo Lights
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This is a given but it still needs to make it on the list. 1.5 million twinkling lights takes any date up a level. Forget the mistletoe, you’ll find plenty of romantic spots amongst the sparkling lights as you stroll through the park admiring the displays. There are big fire pits to cozy up next to while drinking steaming hot chocolate with extra marshmallows.
3. Brunch at The Deane House
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This gorgeous house in Inglewood is extra romantic when it’s dressed up for the holidays. Their dishes are delicious, classic and you definitely won’t leave hungry. Get dressed up for your brunch date, enjoy the food and good conversation and then walk down 9th Ave exploring Inglewood’s shops. They have a holiday pop up brunch on December 27th, 28th & 29th.
4. Skating on Olympic Plaza
It’s a classic Calgary date that never gets old. There is nothing more romantic than lacing up your skates and getting to spend time chatting as you circle the rink. Twinkling lights hang above you and the Calgary tower is lit up in the background. The weather has been gorgeous which means you can wear your cute leggings and toques without having to bundle up like the Michelin man. If you don’t have skates, don’t worry! You can rent them there.
5. Rocky Mountain Symphony Concert
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On December 20th, enjoy a lunch time concert with your bae and listen to the Rocky Mountain Symphony Orchestra’s rendition of selections from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker. The 50 member touring orchestra will be sure to get you in the holiday mood with musical classics. The concert will be held from 12-1pm at the Cathedral Church (604 1st Street SE)
6. Bobsleigh at COP
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How many people get to say that they’ve ridden a bobsleigh down an Olympic track? If you’re looking for an exhilarating date with your boo Winsport has you covered. You’ll be guided with an expert bobsledder down the track with 10 turns and at speeds up to 100km/hr.
7. Christmas in the Castle
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Experience the holiday spirit without leaving the city. The Fairmont Palliser is glistening with holiday joy and spirit. Guests and locals can experience a true festive welcome with a lobby display like Calgary has never seen. Every corner of the castle will be adorned with holly, you’ll feel like you’re in a holiday wonderland. Treat your date to dinner and try out the Fairmont’s festive menu.