December 2025

Sunday, December 21: Try a new virtual reality experience set in the Middle Ages (multiple dates).

Monday, December 22: Treat yourself to some waffles from one of the Beltline’s newest restaurants, Wafflato.

Tuesday, December 23: Pick up any last-minute holiday gifts at these one-stop gift stores.

Wednesday, December 24: See festive lights at the Enchanted Festival at Spruce Meadows (runs December 5 to 7, 12 to 14 and 19 to 24).

Thursday, December 25: Go sledding on one of these hills around the city.

Friday, December 26: Check out holiday lights, an indoor “snowball” fight arena and more at Holiday Wonder (on now until January 3).

Saturday, December 27: Snack on finger sandwiches and drink tea at one of Heritage Park’s holiday tea events (runs December 27 to 29).

Sunday, December 28: Grab a holiday drink at the Sippin’ Santa pop-up at Ricardo’s Hideaway (on now until December 31).

Monday, December 29: Enjoy a beer at Eighty-Eight Brewing Company’s Home Alone-inspired holiday taproom experience (runs until December 29).

Tuesday, December 30: Sip on some Shipnog at Ship & Anchor Pub.

Wednesday, December 31: Ring in 2026 at a fireworks show in Prince’s Island Park.

January 2026

Thursday, January 1: Kick off Dry January with some drinks from Santé, a dry bottle shop in Crossroads Market.

Friday, January 2: Explore the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo while it’s decked out in lights for Zoolights (runs until January 4).

Saturday, January 3: Try a hydrotherapy session at the new Leela Thermal House.

Sunday, January 4: Spend the day exploring the National Music Centre.

Monday, January 5: Check out the light displays at the Lions Festival of Lights (runs until January 8).

Tuesday, January 6: See Moulin Rouge! The Musical with Broadway Across Canada (runs January 6 to 11).

Wednesday, January 7: Stay warm and get some exercise at one of Calgary’s indoor swimming pools.

Thursday, January 8: Play basketball at Calgary’s new Shoot 360 facility.

Friday, January 9: Plan your next home project at the Calgary Renovation Show (runs January 9 to 11).

Saturday, January 10: Start planning your wedding with the help of the experts at Unveiled.

Sunday, January 11: Grab a coffee with a friend at Art Café.

Monday, January 12: Play arcade games with friends at The Rec Room.

Tuesday, January 13: See a show during High Performance Rodeo’s 40th anniversary (runs from January 13 to 31).

Wednesday, January 14: Try the paint-a-cake experience at 8 Cakes.

Thursday, January 15: Indulge in some cheesy dishes during the Calgary Mac & Cheese Festival (runs January 15 to 31).

Friday, January 16: Hear Hans Zimmer film scores played live with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (runs January 16 and 17).

Saturday, January 17: See Monstress, a gothic thriller at Vertigo Theatre (runs January 17 to February 15).

Sunday, January 18: Cheer on the Calgary Flames as the team takes on the Seattle Kraken.

Monday, January 19: Go roller skating with some friends at SkyCastle Roller Rink.

Tuesday, January 20: Sip on a dirty soda from the newly opened Cool Drinks.

Wednesday, January 21: Get a book from a new local bookstore focused on horror and dark fiction.

Thursday, January 22: Check out a new Contemporary Calgary exhibit about trees (on now until April 19).

Friday, January 23: Order crispy prawn cakes, pho grilled cheese, sweet and sour basa and more at the newly opened Lai Rai restaurant.

Saturday, January 24: Learn how to make ice cream with the team behind Made by Marcus.

Sunday, January 25: Try bouldering at Bolder Climbing.

Monday, January 26: Play arcade games and go bowling at PowerPlay.

Tuesday, January 27: Dine at the newly opened Penny Crown, a New York-inspired restaurant in Marda Loop.

Wednesday, January 28: Try cross-country skiing.

Thursday, January 29: Spend the day checking out the latest art exhibitions at Contemporary Calgary.

Friday, January 30: Make a day trip to Canmore to relax in the town’s first Nordic spa.

Saturday, January 31: See Calgary Opera’s production of Hansel and Gretel (runs January 31 and February 1 and 6).

February 2026

Sunday, February 1: Learn about monarch butterflies with photographer and explorer Jaime Rojo at a National Geographic Live event (runs February 1 and 2).

Monday, February 2: Take your family to Chinook Blast for some winter fun (runs from January 30 to February 16).

Tuesday, February 3: Grab a hot chocolate during YYC Hot Chocolate Fest (runs from February 1 to 28).

Wednesday, February 4: Order some pizza from Sinatras Pizzeria’s new location in West Hillhurst.

Thursday, February 5: Visit some photo exhibits during the 22nd annual Exposure Photography Festival (runs throughout February).

Friday, February 6: Watch bands and musical artists perform at the 11th edition of Block Heater, a winter music festival by the Calgary Folk Music Festival (runs February 5 to 7).

Saturday, February 7: See penguins waddling around the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo during the Penguin Walk (runs January 10 to March 15 depending on weather conditions).

Sunday, February 8: Listen to romantic and soulful music with the Calgary Jazz Orchestra.

Monday, February 9: Meet a friend for coffee at the newly opened Paradigm Spark.

Tuesday, February 10: Start building your ideal Alberta bar cart.

Wednesday, February 11: Sip on historical beers at the new Good Cheer Brewing.

Thursday, February 12: Go for a walk on a forest bathing trail.

Friday, February 13: See animals ranging from sloths to kangaroos at the Wildlife Festival (runs February 13 to 16).

Saturday, February 14: Enjoy a romantic fondue dinner at Moonlight & Eli.

Sunday, February 15: Tuck into some delicious Italian fare at La Torino Trattoria.

Monday, February 16: Try a beer or seaweed bath experience at Drift Away Wellness Spa.

Tuesday, February 17: Go shopping for new skincare products at Calgary’s new Om Organics store.

Wednesday, February 18: Catch a movie at Plaza Theatre in Kensington.

Thursday, February 19: Treat yourself to some of Calgary’s must-try cookies.

Friday, February 20: Take your family to see StoryBook Theatre’s production of Anne of Green Gables (runs February 20 to March 15).

Saturday, February 21: Don your western gear to see a skijoring event (runs February 21 and 22).

Sunday, February 22: Grab some tasty treats from the first Craig’s Cookies location in Calgary (opens December 12).

Monday, February 23: Go skating on one of Calgary’s outdoor skating rinks.

Tuesday, February 24: Go to an Alberta Theatre Projects production about Princess Diana’s visit to a Canadian AIDS hospice called Casey House (runs February 24 to March 15).

Wednesday, February 25: Take your family to dinner at Miss Do, a new Vietnamese restaurant in the Fairview neighbourhood.

Thursday, February 26: Get inspired at the Calgary Home + Garden Show (runs from February 26 to March 1).

Friday, February 27: Celebrate Afro-Canadian and Caribbean cultures and traditions at the Ethnik Festival of Arts and Culture (runs February 27 to March 1).

Saturday, February 28: See a lacrosse game between the Calgary Roughnecks and the Halifax Thunderbirds.

March 2026

Sunday, March 1: Go skiing or snowboarding at WinSport.

Monday, March 2: Stay warm by spending the day at Vivo’s indoor park.

Tuesday, March 3: Learn about aquatic ecosystems, fish and more at the Bow Habitat Station.

Wednesday, March 4: Learn how to make handmade pasta with Calgary Cookbook Co. Cooks.

Thursday, March 5: Grab dinner at Ibu, a new restaurant serving Asian-inspired cuisine.

Friday, March 6: Go to Theatre Calgary’s production of The Tale of the Gifted Prince musical (runs from February 14 to March 15).

Saturday, March 7: Have a laugh at the Snowed In Comedy Tour.

Sunday, March 8: Snack on a wood-fired sandwich from one of Calgary’s newest sandwich shops.

Monday, March 9: Get a thrill trying indoor skydiving at iFly.

Tuesday, March 10: Go downtown to get some brioche doughnuts from Pâte Sucrée YYC’s new storefront.

Wednesday, March 11: Check out a new Telus Spark exhibit about extreme sports (on now until April 12).

Thursday, March 12: Find your new signature scent at Miru, a new fragrance shop in Marda Loop.

Friday, March 13: See Alberta Ballet’s production of Swan Lake featuring a live orchestra (runs March 13 to 15).

Saturday, March 14: Order a sweet or savoury pie from Pie Junkie for Pi Day.

Sunday, March 15: Wear green to run in the 2026 St. Patrick’s Day Road Race.

Monday, March 16: Join your friends at Hexagon Board Game Cafe for a night of games and fun.

Tuesday, March 17: Grab a St. Patrick’s Day beer at an Irish pub like James Joyce.

Wednesday, March 18: Check out a free art exhibition at the Esker Foundation in Inglewood.

Thursday, March 19: See a lunchtime comedy about love and consumerism (runs from March 17 to April 4).

The post What to Do in Calgary Every Day This Winter appeared first on Avenue Calgary.

Whether you’re in a relationship or wading into the dating pool for the first time in a while, the winter season offers plenty of unique dating opportunities. Here are a few activities worth trying out with that special someone during the chillier months.

Get competitive at PowerPlay

It’s easy to find common interests to enjoy together (or try something new) with the variety of things to do at PowerPlay. Show off your bowling skills at the 16-lane alley, practice your swing in the baseball or golf simulator, catch a movie together or play some arcade games. The entertainment facility also has a restaurant if you both work up an appetite.

100 Anderson Rd. S.E., powerplay.ca

Go skating (or try other winter activities) at Bowness Park

If you love skating, Bowness Park’s outdoor lagoon is a great place to try it with a partner (skate rentals are available). The park also has cool features like crokicurl, ice bikes, an ice trail and cross-country ski trails, which means you can pack plenty of different adventures into your date night. Bowness Park’s winter features are weather-dependent, so be sure to check whether they are open or closed on the website in advance.

calgary.ca

Take an ice cream workshop together

The team behind the popular Made by Marcus ice cream shops offers ice cream workshops during the cooler seasons. With your partner, sign up for an Ice Cream 101 or Date Night workshop to learn the science behind how to make ice cream. You’ll also learn how to make pints of your own special flavour to bring home so you can keep enjoying the memory of your date night for weeks (or days) to come.

Suite 105, 1119 10 Ave. S.E., madebymarcus.ca

Play some arcade games

Stay warm and bring out each other’s competitive spirits with some arcade games at local eateries and bars. Play games like Ms. Pac-Man and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles at Greta (which has an all-day happy hour on Wednesdays), try your luck at pinball at Pinbar (which has free pinball on Mondays and Wednesdays) or make your way over to The Rec Room for pool, shuffleboard and a slew of arcade game options.

Greta, 213 10 Ave. S.W., gretabar.com; Pinbar, 501 17 Ave. S.W., 403-930-8175, pinbaryyc.com; The Rec Room, 1180, 901 64 Ave. N.E., 587-535-6077, therecroom.com

Learn how to cook together

Cooking together at home is often a fun date night idea. But if your recipe book is getting a bit stale, or you just want to learn how to make something new, consider taking a cooking class together at The Cookbook Co. Cooks. Starting in January, there are classes to learn how to make bread, Mexican cuisine, vegetarian fare, pasta and more.

722 11 Ave. S.W., 403-265-6066, cookbookcooks.com

Relax in a private sauna and cold plunge suite for two

Leela Thermal House is a new hydrotherapy spa with private suites that are designed for one or two people. This is a great way to escape the cold winter weather for a bit while relaxing and decompressing with your own sauna and cold plunge tub.

6180, 5111 Northland Dr. N.W., 587-326-7988, leelathermalhouse.ca

Explore twinkling lights at the zoo during Zoolights

Every winter, the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo becomes a glittering, glowing spectacle during the evening for Zoolights. With countless lights and light figures to discover, it’s a romantic and magical setting for a date night. Check out this year’s edition until January 4, 2026.

210 St. George’s Dr. N.E., 403-232-9300, calgaryzoo.com

Have a cocktail and see a movie at The Plaza Theatre

This independent movie theatre in Kensington is a cozy destination for a romantic movie night. Arrive early to sip on a drink at the theatre’s cocktail bar (you can also bring drinks into the theatre itself) and get a snack from the café in the renovated pink lobby before the movie starts.

1133 Kensington Rd. N.W., 403-283-2222, theplaza.ca

The post Winter Date Night Ideas in Calgary appeared first on Avenue Calgary.

Along the magnificent Icefields Parkway, past the Athabasca Glacier and down the Athabasca River, you’ll find the quaint town of Jasper. Even before the devastating forest fire that ravaged the town in 2024, Jasper was not nearly as busy as Banff or Lake Louise. However, Jasper holds the same appeal for tourists and adventurers, with picturesque, snow-blanketed landscapes, streets full of delicious dining options, the nearby Marmot Basin ski area featuring 3,000 feet of vertical elevation, and a variety of winter activities.

Those looking for a getaway where quiet reprieve meets a good time need look no further.

Quiet among the trees

At more than 11,000 square kilometres in size, Jasper National Park is the largest park in the
Canadian Rockies and the world’s second-largest dark-sky preserve. On a clear night, stars shine wherever you are in the park, but, for prime visibility, visit Pyramid Island, Jasper Lake, Old Fort Point or the toe of the Athabasca Glacier.

Climbing is a year-round affair in Jasper. Take on a multi-hour excursion with Rockaboo Mountain Adventures to climb a frozen waterfall — no previous experience needed! Or stay close to town and conquer the new 15-metre ice sculpture in the heart of Jasper.

Good eats

Jasper Brewing Company, Canada’s first national-park brewery and a Jasper staple, opened its doors in 2005. After closing due to damage from the 2024 wildfires, it reopened last spring. Swing by and taste the beloved brewskies for yourself, and order a bite while you’re at it.

Just over a year old, The Maligne Range is one of Jasper’s newest restaurants and distillers. The upscale rustic ambiance invites you to savour a drink at the bar or by the fireplace and stay for a while. The menu is inspired by Canadian flavours and includes redefined boozy beverages.

For a taste of history, wander to De’d Dog Bar & Grill, where you’ll find pub classics like a Canadian burger, nachos and poutine. The establishment has been serving pints and bites since 1927.

And for a taste of the variety of great food in Jasper, book the Downtown Foodie Tour and discover gourmet stops within central Jasper.

A variety of accomodation

After a day out exploring the trails, hitting the slopes or relaxing with spa services — whatever a rejuvenating getaway looks like for you — turn in at an accommodation that suits you, too. You’ll find everything from luxury lodges to cozy cabins, historic hotels and humble hostels in Jasper.

Built in 1925, the Astoria Hotel is a local landmark and one of Jasper’s original hotels. Enjoy modern accommodation in a historic environment with its newly renovated rooms. Book the Record Room to indulge in the vintage feel and spin some tunes in your room with the record player and vinyl record selection.

Forty-five minutes from Jasper, you’ll find the newly opened Jasper East Hostel. While outside of town proper, the hostel has a trailhead right outside your door and a brewery only a two-minute walk away. It offers single-occupancy rooms, two fully stocked kitchens and a sanctuary space with infrared therapy lights. The upper floor features red-light therapy throughout, including all upper-floor bedrooms, making for a calming and comfortable environment.

Fresh powder

Marmot Basin is among the most underrated marvels of Jasper National Park. The ski resort is not as well known as other Alberta and British Columbia slopes, meaning you’re more likely to shred some pow without serious wait times. The Knob Quad Chair, completed two years ago, takes skiers and boarders up to 8,261 feet in elevation, providing access to vast terrain above the treeline, complete with exceptional views. A 20-minute hike from the top of the chair, you can summit Marmot Peak.

The Jasper in January winter festival returns in 2026 from January 16 to February 1. Watch for food and beverage activations on the mountain, live music and various promotions on ski packages. The townsite will also offer plenty of après-ski fun.

The post How to Experience Winter in Jasper appeared first on Avenue Calgary.

Grab a Sweet Treat at Avenue’s Cookie Market

December 4

Indulge in a variety of local cookies and treats at Avenue’s cookie market at Oxford Properties’ Eau Claire Tower.

Hire a Private Chef for a Holiday Dinner

Elevate your holidays by hiring a private chef, like one of the folks at Søm or Top Chef Canada 2021 competitor and personal chef Alex Edmonson, to prepare a special dinner for your next dinner party. Or order a homemade meal prepared by a local chef on the Home Yum app.

Watch A Christmas Carol

November 28 to December 31

Catch a performance of the iconic holiday play at Theatre Calgary and watch Ebenezer Scrooge drift through his past, present and future to learn the real meaning of the holiday season.

theatrecalgary.com/shows/2025-2026-a-christmas-carol

Embrace the Cold at Zoolights

November 14 to January 4, 2026

The annual festival of lights at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo lets you explore the magic of the zoo at night — all lit up creatively and with fun around every corner.

calgaryzoo.com

The post 4 Fun Things to Do in Calgary This December appeared first on Avenue Calgary.

Donate a winter coat in support of a good cause

When: On now until December 15

Have a new or gently used winter coat you can part with? Consider donating it to a good cause this month. Rosso Coffee Roasters is collecting winter coats and accessories for its Coats for Coffee campaign in support of Project Warmth. Now until December 15, those who donate coats/accessories at one of the five Rosso cafés will get a free drink.

Rosso Coffee Roasters, five Calgary locations, rossocoffeeroasters.com

See a holiday comedy about two beginner tap dancers

When: November 25 to December 21

Get in the holiday spirit on your lunch break by catching a performance of Lunchbox Theatre’s delightfully named production, How Patty and Joanne Won High Gold at the Grand Christmas Cup Winter Dance Competition. The comedy, which also has some afternoon and evening performances, follows beginner tap dancers Patty and Joanne as they overcome obstacles to compete in the Grand Christmas Cup Winter Dance Competition. Bonus: There will be a tap class or open tap jam after the 4 p.m. performances on November 29, December 6 and December 13.

161, 115 9 Ave. S.E., lunchboxtheatre.com

Go see Theatre Calgary’s festive production of A Christmas Carol

When: November 28 to December 31

Theatre Calgary’s iconic production of A Christmas Carol returns with actor Doug McKeag taking on the role of Ebenezer Scrooge again. From the three ghosts to Tiny Tim, this show is full of beloved characters exploring themes of family, love and redemption.

Max Bell Theatre, theatrecalgary.com

Grab a drink at a new brewery making historical beers

 

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When: Opens December 4

Calgary’s newest brewery has a unique concept. At Good Cheer Brewing, the team makes historical beers that span from the High Middle Ages to the present day. Guests can pair their brews with bites like roast beef sandwiches, stews and meat pies.

1220 20 Ave. S.E., goodcheer.beer

Purchase some tasty cookies at Avenue‘s first Cookie Market

When: December 4

Who doesn’t love cookies? Swing by Avenue‘s first Cookie Market in Eau Claire Tower’s lobby to pick some up for yourself and your loved ones. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., there will be more than 20 local cookie vendors to shop from.

Read more: All the Vendors Coming to Avenue’s 2025 Cookie Market

Eau Claire Tower lobby, 600 3 Ave. S.W.

Buy local art that costs less than $100

When: December 4 to 7 and 11 to 14

Anyone who says great art is always expensive hasn’t been to this event. At the annual Under $100 Art Show, every piece of art is, you guessed it, less than $100, and there are plenty of gems to be found by almost 100 artists. Peruse their work over two weekends and you might just find the perfect piece for your home.

1111 9 Ave. S.W., under100artshow.com

Order some waffles at Calgary’s new all-day breakfast spot

Jasper restaurant Wafflato has expanded with a new Calgary location in Donna Mac’s former space, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. As the name suggests, Belgian waffles are front and centre at Wafflato, with 26 sweet and savoury options. But the expansive menu also includes omelettes, eggs Benedict, sandwiches, bowls and mains like cider-brined chicken or pan-seared salmon.

1002 9 St. S.W., 403-930-7917, wafflato.ca

Check out a new Contemporary Calgary exhibit about trees

When: Exhibit opening on December 4; Exhibit runs from December 5, 2025 to April 19, 2026

Explore your relationship and connection with trees in a new Contemporary Calgary exhibit by Montreal artist Nelly-Eve Rajotte. The exhibit uses “moving image, generative sound, and technological devices that listen through a modular synthesizer connected to a live tree.” Catch the free exhibit opening of Trees communicate with each other at 220 hertz (as well as the new Entwined exhibit) on December 4, or visit from December 5 to April 19.

701 11 St. S.W., 403-770-1350, contemporarycalgary.com

Shop for skincare products at Calgary’s new Om Organics store

 

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Up your skincare game with a visit to Om Organics, which just launched a new retail storefront in Calgary’s Marda Loop area. Based in Invermere, the beauty brand offers a wide variety of face and body products ranging from face oils and elixirs to body scrubs and roll-on perfumes.

1942 33 Ave. S.W., omskin.com

Catch a movie or two at a Francophone film festival

When: December 5 to 7

Head to Globe Cinema to see eight films during a Francophone film festival called Coup de Projecteur this month. Many screenings will have the directors or actors in attendance for Q&A sessions, and there will be a free awards ceremony on the last day. All the films will offer English subtitles.

Globe Cinema, 617 8 Ave. S.W., festivalcoupdeprojecteur.com

Get your shopping done with the help of Avenue’s handy holiday gift guide

Looking for a cool stocking stuffer or a tasty food gift? We’ve got you covered. Avenue‘s holiday gift guide has 48 suggestions to help you find just the right presents for your friends and family this year.

Read more: Avenue‘s Holiday Gift Guide 2025

Go see some spectacular holiday light displays around the city

When: Multiple dates

This month, get ready to be dazzled by holiday light displays all around the city. There are several indoor and outdoor displays to experience, including Zoolights at the Calgary Zoo (November 14 to January 4), the Lions Festival of Lights (November 22 to January 8) and Holiday Wonder at the BMO Centre (November 27 to January 3).

Grab a spooky read at the first horror-themed bookstore in Calgary

Calgary has a few romance-focused bookstores to its name already, but now, those who love horror and dark fiction have a new go-to spot for books, too. Located in Marda Loop, Nocturne Books is the city’s newest bookstore, and it’s full of books that fall into genres like horror, fantasy, sci-fi and more. The shop also offers a consignment program featuring Alberta-based authors with self-published books.

15, 1934 34 Ave. S.W., 587-443-3336, nocturnebooks.ca

Sip on some Shipnog at Ship & Anchor

Getting a glass of house-made eggnog (a.k.a. Shipnog) at Ship & Anchor pub is a classic holiday tradition for many Calgarians. Guests can sip on a glass in person or pick up a bottle to enjoy at home. Not only is it delicious, but part of the drink sales support local charities and organizations, including the Calgary Drop-In Centre, Calgary Homeless Foundation, Women’s Centre of Calgary and Central Outreach Hub.

534 17 Ave. S.W., 403-245-3333, shipandanchor.com

Ride the new Heritage Holiday Train at Heritage Park

 

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When: December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 22 and 23

A restored 1951 diesel-electric train has joined Heritage Park’s fleet, and Calgarians can experience it for the first time during the park’s Once Upon a Christmas experience. The Heritage Holiday Train can be ridden during Once Upon a Christmas for an added fee and will feature entertainment once you’re onboard. The train runs several times per day during the experience.

Heritage Park, 1800 Heritage Dr. S.W., 403-268-8500, heritagepark.ca

Toss a teddy bear on the ice at a Calgary Hitmen hockey game

When: December 7

Imagine a hockey arena where thousands and thousands of teddy bears blanket the ice. You’ll see exactly that at the Calgary Hitmen Teddy Bear Toss, an annual event where guests are encouraged to bring a teddy bear and throw it on the ice after the Hitmen’s first goal. In the end, the bears are collected for local organizations to give to children. This year’s Teddy Bear Toss game takes place on December 7 at 4 p.m. when the Hitmen take on the Wenatchee Wild.

Scotiabank Saddledome, 555 Saddledome Rise S.E., chl.ca

Grab a festive drink at a holiday-themed pop-up bar

Calgary restaurants, bars and breweries are getting in the holiday spirit with festive pop-up bars inside their spaces this month. Experience Miracle on First Street at Proof, a Home Alone-inspired activation at Eighty-Eight Brewing Company, an elf-themed experience at Limericks Traditional Public House and more.

Read more: Holiday Pop-Up Bars in Calgary

Check out a new Telus Spark exhibit that’s all about extreme sports

When: December 11, 2025 to April 12, 2026

Telus Spark’s newest exhibit is all about the role that science plays in extreme sports. Launching on December 11, the Extreme Sports exhibit offers everything from a virtual reality experience about the backcountry to a flying simulator activity. Admission to the exhibit comes with general admission/memberships.

220 St. George’s Dr. N.E., 403-817-6800, sparkscience.ca

The post 18 Best Things to Do in Calgary This December appeared first on Avenue Calgary.

Celebrate Christmas in Banff

When: Banff Christmas Market runs from November 21 to December 14; In Search of Christmas Spirit runs from November 13 to December 31

There are a lot of ways to enjoy the holiday season in the mountains, especially in the town of Banff. Shop at the Banff Christmas Market, which runs on weekends from November 21 to December 14. You’ll find vendors selling craft beer, wines and spirits, home decor, food, jewellery and more. You can also visit In Search of Christmas Spirit, an outdoor holiday experience at the Cascade of Time Garden in Banff that features a walking trail with twinkling lights, illuminated sculptures and a live Christmas story. The free event requires tickets and runs on select dates from November 13 to December 31.

Banff Christmas Market, 327 Railway Avenue, Banff, banffchristmasmarket.com; Cascade of Time Garden, Cave Ave., Banff, banfflakelouise.com

Check out the Banff Gondola Mountaintop Christmas

When: Mountaintop Christmas runs Saturdays and Sundays starting on November 22, and then runs daily from December 22 to December 31

Visit Santa and decorate cookies on top of a mountain for an added thrill this holiday season. Take the gondola up Sulphur Mountain for this family-friendly holiday celebration that features Santa visits (until December 24), cookie and ornament decorating, marshmallow roasting, movie screenings, a Christmas bar and more.

Banff Gondola, 1 Mountain Ave., Banff, 1-866-756-1904, banffjaspercollection.com

Visit a new pub serving Central European-inspired fare in Canmore

When: Opens November 28

The team behind The Uprising Bake Shop and Espresso Bar is opening a new pub in the business’s former Canmore storefront. The Corner Pub draws on the owners’ Czech and Slovak roots, promising a menu with Central European-inspired food and flavours. And if you were a fan of the bakery, don’t worry — you can still buy Uprising’s fresh sourdough and other bread products straight from its production space at 735 9 Street.

The Corner Pub, 804 6 St., Canmore, @thecornerpub.canmore

Take a photo at the Banff sign’s new location

The “Banff” sign on Mount Norquay Avenue that has welcomed residents and visitors into the Banff townsite since 2017 has a new home. As of late November, the Banff sign has been moved to a new spot located by the historic Banff train station. Visit the new spot now to get a fresh photo at the sign’s new location.

327 Railway Ave., Banff

Experience holiday festivities in Kananaskis

When: December 1, 2025 to January 4, 2026

The Pomeroy Kananaskis Lodge is bringing the magic of the holiday season to visitors and guests alike with a slate of events and activities this month and into the new year. Experiences open to non-hotel guests include a ride aboard the Kananaskis Express Train, viewing all of the indoor and outdoor installations, partaking in the outdoor firepit fireside moments (a hosted social mixer around the firepit), entry to dining establishments and more. More details about activities, experiences and participation information are available online.

Pomeroy Kananaskis Lodge, 1 Centennial Dr., Kananaskis, 403-591-7711, lodgeatkananaskis.com

Attend Banff events about a new film inspired by Fogo Island

When: Events on December 3 and 4; exhibit runs until January 7, 2026

The Walter Phillips Gallery at Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity has opened the exhibition titled Sharon Lockhart, a film and photography series by Lockhart that’s inspired by Fogo Island in Newfoundland and Labrador. Created over four summers that she spent on the island, Lockhart’s film, Windward, showcases the island’s geographic formations, climate and beauty. Her photograph series, Fogo Island Portrait Studio, profiles the young residents of the island. Guests can attend the exhibit celebration on December 3 and check out a conversation with the artist and Kitty Scott, strategic director, Shorefast/Fogo Island Arts, on December 4. Both events are free and open to the public. The exhibit is on display until January 7, 2026.

Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, 107 Tunnel Mountain Dr., Banff, 403-762-6100, banffcentre.ca

Watch a classic holiday play at the Fairmont Banff Springs

When: Multiple dates between December 5 to 28

Step into the festive Fairmont Banff Springs to see a performance of A Christmas Carol by Carter-Ryan Productions this month. Featuring both actors and puppets, this annual production is a great way to spend time together as a family.

Fairmont Banff Springs, 405 Spray Avenue, Banff, 403-762-2211, banff-springs-hotel.com; eventbrite.ca

The post What to Do in the Mountains in December appeared first on Avenue Calgary.

When I was growing up in Calgary, my family would trek up to Edmonton every summer to visit relatives. West Edmonton Mall (WEM) was always the highlight of those trips. WEM opened in 1981, claiming the title of largest shopping mall in the world. I still remember my little legs quaking on the giant boat ride in Galaxyland, watching the live dolphin shows by the massive pirate ship and hours of shopping in what seemed like an endless parade of stores.

Today, WEM is still the largest indoor mall in North America, boasting 16 world-class attractions and more than 800 stores and 100 dining venues. When my kids asked to go to WEM recently, I was awash with a wave of nostalgia. I wondered whether it would be as memorable and exciting for them. A quick family road trip was the only way to find out, and I’m pleased to report that WEM did not disappoint.

Here’s how to spend 24 hours at WEM.

Dive in at the World Waterpark

Home to the world’s largest indoor wave pool where the waves get as high as 4.5 feet, the waterpark also features over 17 exhilarating waterslides — my kids loved the Cyclone with its upside-down loop and the Tropical Typhoon. The water is warm (31°C) and there are splash zones for all ages.

Thrill seek at Galaxyland Powered by Hasbro

North America’s largest indoor amusement park is a perfect memory-making space with its stomach-dropping rides and play areas for all ages. Wind your way through three-and-a-half acres of family-friendly rides, including the super-fun Galaxy Orbiter roller coaster.

Try go-karting

If you prefer a different kind of ride where you have more control, head over to the state-of-the-art Drive attraction, North America’s first indoor multilevel race track. Test your F1-esque skills as you race around the New York-streetscape-themed track on electric race karts.

See marine life

While dolphin shows are no longer, you can still get up close and personal with sharks, sea turtles, penguins and more at Sea Life Caverns. The underground aquatic adventure is home to over 100 species from around the world, including fish, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates. My son was pumped to pet a beautiful bamboo shark in the touch pool. The animals are cared for by a team of expert staff who educate visitors about the animals, and the aquarium is proudly accredited by Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums and the National Marine Educators Association.

Grab some food

WEM is home to more than 100 coffee shops, fast-food options and full-service restaurants. The two food courts can satisfy any fast-food cravings, or you can choose from big restaurant chains like Cactus Club Cafe and Moxies or smaller restaurants like The Taco Shop or Dookbaeki, for traditional Korean stews.

Go shopping

WEM is, first and foremost, a shopping mall. It’s chockablock with every shop and service you could ever need. It has all the usual retail players, especially in apparel and accessories, including department store favourites like Simons and Winners. My daughter helped the bottom line of several while my son spent hours at the flagship LEGO store, customizing his own minifigure through the minifigure factory.

Rest your head at Fantasyland Hotel

I always wanted to stay here as a kid, but never did. So to satisfy my younger self’s wish, and for sheer convenience, we overnighted in one of the theme rooms at the Fantasyland Hotel located within the mall. Themes range from space and dinosaurs to Western and Polynesian. It just added an extra layer of fun, making WEM feel a bit more exotic than just three hours north of Calgary.

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Nordic spas have been gaining popularity in and around Calgary. Pulling inspiration from Scandinavian hydrotherapy, where you alternate between hot, cold and rest phases, Nordic spas are being sought out for the ways they can help you feel refreshed, relaxed and rejuvenated.

Now, as interest in blending travel and wellness grows, Canmore joins the list of mountain towns offering new restorative travel experiences with its first Nordic spa, created by Basecamp Resorts. Everwild Canmore, which opened on November 20, welcomes mountain fans seeking rest and restoration with features like retreat tents with loungers and wood-burning fireplaces, a salt lodge and a variety of pools across almost 40,000 square feet of beautiful outdoor space.

The Everwild Hotel & Spa property includes the new Nordic spa and the recently rebranded MTN House By Basecamp hotel, which opened in 2023.

“We’re so honoured to be in the business of making people feel better,” says Sky McLean, CEO and founder of Basecamp Resorts.

Here are three things to know about the new spa.

The spa draws inspiration from the natural elements

The design of Everwild spa’s reception lounge and interior space, where you’ll find showers, lockers, treatment rooms and an exfoliation station, draws inspiration from Canmore’s coal mining history. The space features wooden walls and hallways to represent the wooden casings of a mine entrance and black doors to create a tunnel feel.

But wander outside to the pools and you’ll find that the spa’s restorative amenities are rooted in the natural elements. The idea is that each element — fire, water, earth and air — represents a different facet of well-being, and they all relate to elements in the spa. Take the cedar sauna barrels, for example. The wood is tied to earth, and the dry heat that warms the body can be thought of in relation to fire. Guests will find this theme reflected in every amenity in the spa, including the element-inspired cocktails served in the Elements Lounge.

The spa has nearly 20 options in the thermotherapy circuit

Spanning almost 40,000 square feet, Everwild spa offers an expansive range of thermotherapy options, with a large variety of pools, saunas, lounges and more, so everyone can find the right rhythm for themselves. The heart of Everwild’s mission is ensuring that guests listen to what their bodies need.

Everwild features five pools, ranging from a 15°C cold plunge pool to a 40°C hot pool. Guests also have the option of two cedar sauna barrels, a steam lodge, a heat lodge and a salt lodge.

Guests are encouraged to go from hot to cold and then rest. Resting is vital to the wellness benefits of contrast therapy — when the body alternates between hot and cold applications — which is why Everwild offers many places to relax and regenerate, such as the three fire pits, three restorative tents and social lounge.

Staff guide you through wellness rituals of your choice

In the heat lodge, guests can choose from three guided rituals, ranging from slow and meditative to high-heat and high-energy. The rituals use essential oils, music and an invitation to participate in guided dynamic movement or deep silence, depending on the ritual.

Twice a day, guests are welcome to join the fire rituals, where they come together around a fire pit to set intentions and pause for a moment of gratitude. In the steam lodge, guests can partake in a herbal steam cleanse, where staff diffuse herbs and invite guests to exfoliate with a scrub. And in the retreat tents, they can use warm palm stones on themselves with the help of a guided body scan.

The post 3 Things to Know About Canmore’s First Nordic Spa appeared first on Avenue Calgary.

With the holidays just around the corner, seasonal light displays are starting to pop up. While there are resources like Lighten Up Calgary that will help you find some of the most extravagantly decorated houses around the city, you can also immerse yourself in one of the larger light displays that span entire communities or businesses.

Here are a few of those show-stopping light displays that will be set up around Calgary this year.

Zoolights at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo

When: November 14, 2025 to January 4, 2026

Zoolights is back for its 29th year at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo. This holiday tradition features tons of light displays around the grounds, plus plenty of activities happening nightly. Expect fire pits, photo ops, axe-throwing, a 100-foot light tunnel and more.

The zoo also offers a special Sunlight to Zoolights admission ticket that allows access to the grounds from 1 p.m. into the evening to experience everything the zoo has to offer.

210 St. George’s Dr. N.E., 403-232-9300, calgaryzoo.com

Lions Festival of Lights

When: November 22, 2025 to January 8, 2026

Now in its 39th year, the Lions Festival of Lights Society puts on this annual light show to bring some holiday cheer to Calgarians. The lights turn on at 5 p.m. on November 22, and after that, run from 5:30 p.m. to midnight daily until January 8, 2026.

Confederation Park Golf Course, lionsfestivaloflights.ca

Holiday Wonder

When: November 27, 2025 to January 3, 2026

For those who want to stay cozy with an indoor light experience, Holiday Wonder may be just the event for you. Taking place inside the BMO Centre, this festival promises tons of holiday light displays, an indoor arena for “snowball” fights, a life-size gingerbread house, craft workshops and more.

BMO Centre, 1912 Flores Ladue Parade S.E., holidaywonder.ca

Enchanted Festival at Spruce Meadows

When: December 5 to 7, 12 to 14 and 19 to 24

Spruce Meadows has previously done a drive-thru holiday lights experience, but this year, it’s offering something new. Enchanted Festival is a walking lights experience where guests can discover dazzling outdoor light displays on foot. When you need to warm up, head to the indoor experience in the Equi-Plex, which features snacks and drinks, an indoor Christmas lights maze, family-friendly movies and more.

18011 Spruce Meadows Way S.W., sprucemeadows.com

The post Where to See Holiday Light Displays in Calgary appeared first on Avenue Calgary.

Basketball has been a hot topic in Calgary ever since the arrival of the Calgary Surge, Calgary’s professional men’s basketball team, in 2023. And now, local basketball fans have one more thing to be excited about with the arrival of Shoot 360 Calgary.

“Calgary’s basketball moment is here. Momentum has been building, stoked by the arrival of the Calgary Surge and the city’s growing basketball club scene and leagues — it’s an incredibly exciting time for the city and the sport,” says Chris Le Bihan, co-founder of Shoot 360.

Shoot 360 is an innovative basketball training facility that combines next-gen technology and virtual trainers to help players of all levels grow their skills. Using AI-enabled shot trackers with real-time feedback, players can work on shooting, passing, ball-handling and other skills.

The training facility includes both shooting and skills courts, with more than 350 different game simulations from beginner to pro levels.

The core offering at Shoot 360 is the one-hour session, with 30 minutes on the skills court and 30 more on the shooting court. But Shoot 360 also offers a 30-minute session and other services like one-on-one, in-person training with professional coaches. The facility also has a full-size court, performance gym and a viewing mezzanine and party room for events.

“We’re here to raise the bar for the whole city — players, teams and coaches. Come train hard, track your progress and bring that momentum back to your club. Book in, bring your crew and let’s level up Calgary basketball together,” says co-founder Naomi Le Bihan.

140, 11358 Barlow Tr. N.E., 866-983-2135, shoot360calgary.com

[Note: This article has been updated to reflect Shoot 360 Calgary’s correct website.]

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