Slightly jealous of those taking extravagant vacations to Mexico or Hawaii to lounge on sandy beaches amidst palm tress. Don’t worry! The times of stressing over exams, projects, and deadlines have finally ended – school’s out! And, the white fluff is finally beginning to fall – it’s snowing! It sure is beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Take this perfect weekend to enjoy some of the festivities & events happening around Calgary as you kick off the holiday season with family and friends!
1) Northern Reflections Window Exhibition
A group of artists have painted street level windows in the holiday theme along Stephan Avenue. But.. wait – it gets way more exciting! This exhibition incorporates augmented reality technology so if you look at them through your smartphone, you will see a surprise animation. So head down, take a look and let your jaw drop!
When: All of December
Where: Calgary’s Downtown Core
Cost: Free!
2) Once Upon a Christmas
Don’t miss this chance to spend a magical day in the Heritage Park Historical Village and Gasoline Alley Museum. Along with being able to see how families spent Christmas during pioneer times, you will be able to enjoy wagon rides, carol singing, gingerbread cookie decorating, and a train display. The shops on Haskayne Mercantile Block and in the village are also perfect stops for some last minute holiday shopping.
When: December 23 – 24, 9;30am – 4pm
Where: Heritage Park (1900 Heritage Dr SW)
Cost: Adults – $10.95 and Children – $8.75
3) ZooLights
This is the 20th year of the zoo being lit in dozens of light displays comprised of more than 1.5 million lights. At the same time as looking at these breathtaking lights, you’ll be able to skate, play some carnival games, create crafts, take your picture with Santa, and help support Wildlife Conservation. Head down to see this local attraction in an entirely new light.
When: Every evening until January 6th (except Christmas Day), 6 – 9pm
Where: Calgary Zoo (1300 Zoo Rd. NE)
Cost: Adults – $14.95 and Children – $11.95
4) Christmas in Kensignton
Head to Kensignton to enjoy complimentary tea, coffee & hot chocolate, selfies with Santa, horse & wagon rides, a petting zoo and more! The movie, Die Hard, will also be showing at the Plaza Theatre (1133 Kensington Rd NW) starting at 3:30pm on Saturday.
When: Saturday December 23rd, 12 – 4 pm & Sunday December 24th, 1 – 3 pm
Where: Kensignton Road and 10th Street NW
Cost: Admission to the movie by donation
5) The Polar Express Train Ride
Only a short drive from Calgary, you can climb aboard The Polar Express Train Ride for a magical journey to the North Pole! Once onboard hot chocolate and treats are served as passengers read along the classic story, The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg
When: December 22 – 24. Click here for specific timings.
Where: Aspen Crossing, 1 km west of Mossleigh on Highway #24
Cost: $60/ticket
6) Theatre in YYC
The theatre season is going strong in Calgary! Theatre Calgary presents A Christmas Carol, the staging of Charles Dickens’ classic novel taking you on the journey of Scrooge with the spirits of Christmas Past, Present and Future. The Nutcracker put on by Alberta Ballet tells the story of a young girl names Clara whose wooden nutcracker magically comes to life on Christmas Eve. And, if you’re looking for something the little ones would enjoy, Alberta Theatre Project is performing the family friendly show, Charlotte’s Web. Click on the above tittles for specific information regarding showtimes, ticket availability, and prices.
When: Daily matinee and evening shows
Where: Max Bell Theatre, Jubilee Auditorium and Martha Cohen Theatre
Cost: Varies from $30 and up
Wishing everyone a warm, safe, and relaxing holiday season! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!