Like many other communities across Canada, Calgary hosts a number of events and activities during the holiday season that appeal to visitors of all ages. Take some time to relax and enjoy the holidays. Venture to a few events with friends and family.
Zoo lights
Every year, Calgary Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland of lights and activities for the entire family. More than one million lights create hundreds of festive displays. Crackling fire pits located throughout the facility provide the perfect spot to take the chill off while enjoying a refreshing cup of hot chocolate. The kids get to visit with Santa and have fun at designated activity zones that include an outdoor ice skating area. Admission price is $14 for adults and $11 for children under 15.
Once Upon A Christmas
Heritage Park Historical Village is decked out in holiday splendour through December 21 in celebration of the season. Step back in time on a weekend and experience a Christmas from yesteryear courtesy of the costumed village participants. Enjoy homemade treats, strolling carolers, old-fashioned horse-drawn sleigh rides, crafts, and other activities. Village admission is $8.50 for adults, $6.50 for children 7-15 and $5.50 for children aged 3 to 6.
Lougheed House Christmas
Through December 20, the historic home opens its doors and welcomes guests to step inside and see how families enjoyed Christmas back in the day. An array of beautiful vintage decorations and lights await visitors. Tour the 1891 residence and take as many photographs as you like. On the weekends, the facility hosts various activities and crafts along with offering live music presentations. Admission is $8.50 for adults, $6.50 for students and $5 for children. Special rates for families-$25.
Sleigh Rides
Horsin’ Around Trail Rides gets in the spirit of the season by offering horse-drawn sleigh rides through January 1. Go dashing through the snow in a one-horse open sleigh. The location also features a petting zoo, pony rides and tobogganing opportunities. Warm up by one of the inviting campfires and enjoy a hot beverage. Adults admission-$10, children-$8. Family day passes are also available for $29.
Ice Skating
On Monday nights, the Olympic Oval welcomes the public to enjoy gliding across the ice at the facility used by many an athlete. The facility hosts a special Christmas Skate on December 23 from noon till 5:00 P.M., which provides guests with the chance to skate to holiday music. Skate and helmet rentals are available for $2.00. General admission is only $7.00 for adults and $5.75 for children.
For anyone preferring outdoor skating rinks, Big Marlborough Park, Bowness Park Lagoon, Carburn Park, Prairie Winds Park, and Prince’s Islands Lagoon have frozen locations available at no cost.
Lions’ Festival of Lights
Thousands of people create the festive display in Confederation Park consisting of hundreds of thousands of LED lights in many different configurations. Every night the location is illuminated from 6:00 P.M. to midnight. Walk through or drive by the display and enjoy the view. The lights remain up through January 8 and there is no admission fee.
CP Holiday Train
The uniquely decorated holiday train rolls into the Anderson train Station and the south parking lot on December 11 from 6:45 P.M. to 7:45 P.M. A converted boxcar serves as a makeshift stage where Kelly Prescott, Jim Cuddy, and son provide live entertainment. There is no cost to attend. However, donations of non-perishable food items are encouraged.
Enjoy the sights and sounds in Calgary around the holidays. Visit one or more of these locations and join in on the festivities.