Get in the Christmas Spirit: Top Festive Places to Visit in Calgary
It’s that time of year again when Calgary transforms into a winter wonderland, full of festive lights, holiday cheer, and seasonal traditions. If you're looking to get in the Christmas mood, here are some of Calgary's best spots that are sure to bring you holiday joy and maybe even a little magic. From historic venues to enchanting light displays, these destinations offer a perfect setting for family memories, date nights, or solo strolls with a hot cocoa in hand.
1. Heritage Park's Once Upon a Christmas
Stepping into Heritage Park during the holiday season feels like taking a step back in time. This beloved attraction hosts its annual Once Upon a Christmas event, a must-see for holiday lovers of all ages. With festive activities, vintage holiday décor, and cozy scenes from Christmases past, it's a perfect blend of nostalgia and holiday cheer.
What to Expect:
• Holiday Wagon Rides: Bundle up and take a horse-drawn wagon ride around the park, enjoying the beautiful lights and seasonal decorations.
• Christmas Markets: Shop for unique, handmade gifts and treats from local artisans—perfect for holiday shopping or grabbing a few treats for yourself!
• Santa Claus: Of course, no Christmas outing is complete without a visit to the big man himself! Santa will be at the park, ready to hear wish lists and spread cheer.
• Live Carolers: Immerse yourself in the sounds of the season as costumed carolers roam the grounds, adding that special holiday magic.
Pro Tip: Dress warmly and arrive early for popular activities. The park’s old-fashioned atmosphere paired with its Christmas lights and festivities is a treat for both the eyes and the heart.
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Calgary Zoo transforms each year into a dazzling display of lights and sounds with Zoo Lights, one of the city’s most popular holiday attractions. With over two million twinkling lights, this annual tradition is a spectacular way to enjoy a winter evening with family and friends.
Highlights of Zoo Lights:
• Illuminated Pathways: Wander through paths lined with vibrant light displays, including animals, holiday scenes, and enchanted forests.
• Interactive Displays: Some of the displays are interactive, perfect for kids (and the young at heart) to engage with and explore.
• Warming Fire Pits: Keep warm by one of the fire pits scattered around the zoo or grab a warm drink or treat at one of the food stands.
• Skating Rink: Strap on a pair of skates and glide under the lights. The skating rink is a crowd favourite, especially for families and couples looking for a fun way to spend an evening.
Pro Tip: Bundle up and book tickets in advance—Zoo Lights is a popular event and tends to sell out quickly. Don’t forget to stop by one of the snack stands for hot chocolate and roasted marshmallows!
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3. Spruce Meadows Christmas Lights Drive-Thru
If you’re looking to stay cozy in the car, Spruce Meadows offers a Christmas Lights Drive-Thru that lets you enjoy their enchanting light displays from the comfort of your vehicle. This attraction is free, family-friendly, and perfect for those especially chilly nights.
Highlights:
• Drive-Through Light Displays: Marvel at the elaborate holiday lights decorating Spruce Meadows, each area thoughtfully designed to bring holiday magic to life.
• Holiday Music: Tune your car radio to a festive station and let holiday classics fill the car as you drive through the beautiful displays.
• Family Fun: The drive-thru is perfect for families with young kids or for anyone looking to enjoy the lights without facing the winter cold.
Pro Tip: Go early in the evening to avoid long lines, as this free event draws quite a crowd. Bring a blanket and hot drinks to make it even cozier!
4. Other Local Christmas Markets and Events
While Heritage Park, Zoo Lights, and Spruce Meadows are classic Christmas destinations, don’t forget to explore Calgary's local holiday markets and other seasonal events for even more festive fun.
• Calgary Christmas Market: Held at the Calgary Farmers' Market, this event is full of vendors offering everything from seasonal treats to handcrafted gifts.
• Downtown Calgary Lights: Take a stroll downtown and admire the lights and festive decorations along Stephen Avenue and beyond.
• The CORE Shopping Centre Christmas Trees: A beautiful indoor option, The CORE's massive Christmas tree display is a sight to behold, perfect for a warm shopping day with a little holiday spirit.
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Whether you’re exploring Calgary’s historic spots or taking in the glow of twinkling lights, there’s no shortage of ways to get into the holiday spirit. These destinations are sure to make your season merry and bright. Grab your mittens, your favourite people, and start making those cherished Christmas memories.
Happy Holidays, Calgary!
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