The Best Holiday Markets and Festive Events in Calgary
There’s something magical about the holiday season in Calgary. The twinkling lights, snow-covered streets, the smell of freshly baked treats, and the sound of Christmas carols all make for a pretty wonderful time of year. And if you’re lucky, a Chinook might even make those outdoor holiday adventures a little more comfortable!
From charming Christmas markets and spectacular light displays to live performances, visits with Santa, and old-fashioned holiday celebrations, Calgary and the surrounding area offer plenty of ways to get into the festive spirit.
Whether you’re hoping to check a few names off your Christmas shopping list, support local artisans, or simply enjoy some seasonal family fun, we’ve rounded up some of the best holiday markets and festive events in Calgary for 2026. Many are free to attend, and several offer enough activities to keep the kids entertained while you shop.
So bundle everyone up, grab a hot chocolate, and get ready to make some magical holiday memories!
The Best Holiday Markets and Events in Calgary & the Surrounding Area
A Christmas Carol at Theatre Calgary
When: Thursday November 26 – Sunday December 27 (select performances)
Where: Max Bell Theatre, Werklund Centre, 220 9 Ave. SE, Calgary
Admission: Ticketed
Bah, humbug! One of Calgary’s most beloved holiday theatre traditions returns to the stage with Theatre Calgary’s production of A Christmas Carol. Charles Dickens’ timeless story follows the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge as he’s visited by three mysterious spirits who show him the meaning of kindness, generosity, and Christmas cheer.
Adapted by Calgary playwright Geoffrey Simon Brown, this heartwarming production features memorable characters, magical theatrical moments, and an important message about compassion and second chances. It’s a wonderful holiday outing for families with school-aged children and older kids who are ready for a full-length theatrical performance. And who knows? Maybe it’ll even inspire everyone to be a little more generous this Christmas!
Airdrie Festival of Lights
When: Tuesday December 1 – Thursday December 31 from 6pm to 9pm
Where: Nose Creek Park, Airdrie
Admission: Free; donations appreciated
Looking for a little Christmas magic that won’t cost a fortune? Just north of Calgary, the Airdrie Festival of Lights transforms Nose Creek Park into a sparkling winter wonderland filled with colourful illuminated displays and festive decorations.
Families can wander along the glowing pathways, admire the beautiful lights, and enjoy the festive atmosphere together. There are also miniature train rides and seasonal refreshments available on select nights, making this a particularly fun outing for younger kids.
Best of all, admission is free, although donations are gratefully accepted to help keep this beloved community tradition going. Bundle up, bring some hot chocolate, and enjoy a magical evening under the lights!
Art Market Craft Sale
When: Thursday November 19 – Sunday November 22
Where: Calgary TELUS Convention Centre, 136 8 Ave. SE, Calgary
Admission: Ticketed; check current rates
If you love finding gifts that are a little different from what’s available at the mall, Art Market Craft Sale is a fantastic place to start! Celebrating its 40th anniversary, this popular Calgary event brings together more than 200 talented Canadian artists and makers offering beautiful handmade gifts, jewellery, ceramics, clothing, home decor, and plenty of other treasures.
Families can browse the colourful displays, meet the artists behind the creations, and watch live demonstrations during the Artists in Motion series. There’s also delicious food to sample and plenty of inspiration for those hard-to-shop-for people on your holiday list.
Even better, your admission includes a free re-entry pass, so you can come back for another look if you didn’t manage to see everything the first time!
Calgary Winter Market
When: Thursdays through Sundays, November 19 – December 13, and daily Tuesday December 15 – Thursday December 24
Where: Eau Claire Plaza, 101 Barclay Parade SW, Calgary
Admission: Free before 5pm, on Sundays, and for visitors under 18 or 65 and older; otherwise ticketed
You don’t need to travel to Europe to experience the magic of a traditional Christmas market! Calgary’s new Winter Market transforms Eau Claire Plaza into a festive village filled with charming retail huts, twinkling lights, delicious seasonal treats, and plenty of holiday cheer.
Families can explore more than 40 market chalets offering handmade and imported gifts, warm up inside the cozy Brauhaus tent, listen to live music, and enjoy children’s activities and holiday entertainment. There’s even a vintage carousel to add a little extra old-fashioned magic to your visit.
With free admission during the day and for all children and teens, it’s a lovely way to spend a festive afternoon downtown without breaking the bank.
Enchanted Festival at Spruce Meadows
When: Saturday December 12 – Wednesday December 23, from 5pm to 9pm
Where: Spruce Meadows, 18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW, Calgary
Admission: Ticketed; advance booking recommended
Get ready to be dazzled! Spruce Meadows transforms into an illuminated winter wonderland for its Enchanted Festival, featuring millions of sparkling lights, magical displays, and plenty of festive family fun.
Families can explore the outdoor light walk, stroll through a spectacular 75-foot illuminated tunnel, and discover beautifully decorated indoor spaces where they can warm up between adventures. There’s also roller skating, Christmas movies, seasonal treats, holiday shopping, and visits with Santa. Kids can even meet reindeer and other animals!
With both indoor and outdoor activities, it’s a wonderful choice for families looking to make an entire evening of their holiday celebration. Be sure to book ahead, as this popular event takes place for just 12 nights.
Granary Road Christmas Market
When: Saturdays and Sundays, November 28–29, December 5–6, and December 12–13
Where: Granary Road, 226066 112 St. W., Foothills County
Admission: Check current market and activity pricing; some experiences are extra
Take a little trip into the countryside for some festive family fun at Granary Road’s Christmas Market! This charming holiday celebration features local artisans, handmade gifts, beautiful decorations, and plenty of delicious seasonal treats.
Kids will love spotting the alpacas, enjoying Christmas carols, and participating in special holiday activities. Families can also book unique experiences such as photos with Santa and the alpacas, Breakfast with Santa, and other festive programming.
It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a little country Christmas magic while supporting local makers. With three weekends to choose from, there’s plenty of opportunity to squeeze in a visit before the holidays arrive.
Inglewood Holiday Night Market
When: Fridays and Saturdays November 13–14, 20–21, and 27–28
Where: Quonset at Crossroads Market, Calgary
Admission: Check organizer’s website for current rates
Looking for some unique holiday gifts with a little extra atmosphere? The Inglewood Holiday Night Market brings its popular shopping experience indoors for three festive weekends in November.
Featuring more than 60 local vendors, the market is filled with handmade gifts, vintage treasures, artwork, jewellery, clothing, home decor, and other one-of-a-kind finds. Visitors can also enjoy delicious food and live local music while browsing the stalls.
It’s a particularly fun option for families with older kids and tweens who enjoy shopping, exploring, and discovering creative gifts. And since the festivities take place indoors, you don’t need to worry about Calgary’s unpredictable November weather ruining your plans.
Lions’ Festival of Lights
When: Saturday November 21 – Friday January 8, nightly from 5:30pm to midnight after opening night
Where: Confederation Park Golf Course, along 14 St. NW north of 24 Ave., Calgary
Admission: Free
One of Calgary’s most cherished holiday traditions is celebrating its 40th anniversary! The Lions’ Festival of Lights transforms the hillside along Confederation Park into a dazzling display of colourful illuminated decorations, festive scenes, and twinkling lights.
Families can enjoy the displays on foot or from the comfort of their vehicle, making it a great choice for little ones who might not be up for a long winter walk. The official opening celebration takes place Saturday November 21 at 5pm, with the lights shining nightly throughout the holiday season.
Best of all, admission is completely free! It’s a lovely way to enjoy a little holiday magic with the family, whether you’re making a special evening of it or simply stopping by after dinner.
Market Collective Holiday Market
When: Friday December 4 – Sunday December 6 and Friday December 11 – Sunday December 13
Where: BMO Centre, Hall D, 20 Roundup Way SE, Calgary
Admission: Check organizer’s website for current rates
If you’re looking to support local artists and discover gifts you won’t find just anywhere, Market Collective is a fantastic place to spend a few festive hours. This popular Calgary market brings together more than 150 independent makers, artists, designers, and small businesses offering everything from handmade jewellery and ceramics to clothing, artwork, and unique home accessories.
Families can browse creative treasures, enjoy live music, sample tasty treats, and check out interactive workshops and special exhibits. There’s always something interesting to discover, making it a fun outing for older kids who enjoy art, design, and shopping.
With two weekends to choose from, it’s also a great opportunity to get some Christmas shopping done while supporting Calgary’s creative community.
Millarville Christmas Market
When: Thursday November 5 – Sunday November 8 and Thursday November 12 – Sunday November 15 from 10am to 5pm
Where: Millarville Racetrack, 306097 192 St. W., Millarville
Admission: Ticketed; check current rates
Escape the city for some old-fashioned Christmas charm at the Millarville Christmas Market! One of Alberta’s favourite holiday traditions, this festive event brings together more than 300 local vendors offering handmade gifts, seasonal decorations, delicious treats, and all kinds of unique treasures.
But there’s plenty more to enjoy than just shopping! Kids can visit Santa, watch reindeer, enjoy face painting, and take a festive hayride, while families can listen to live music and sample tasty treats from local food trucks.
Set against the beautiful Alberta countryside, it’s a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season and spend some quality time together. Just remember to dress warmly, as much of the market experience takes place outdoors.
The Nutcracker by Alberta Ballet
When: Friday December 11 – Thursday December 24 (select performances)
Where: Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium, 1415 14 Ave. NW, Calgary
Admission: Ticketed
Is it really Christmas without The Nutcracker? Alberta Ballet’s spectacular production returns to Calgary with a magical celebration of Tchaikovsky’s beloved holiday classic.
Featuring breathtaking costumes, elaborate sets, beautiful choreography, and live orchestral music, this timeless ballet transports audiences into a world of wonder and imagination. From the enchanting snow scenes to the colourful Kingdom of Sweets, there’s plenty to captivate both children and adults.
It’s a wonderful way to introduce kids to the magic of live ballet and a lovely holiday tradition to start with your family. Check the performance calendar for matinee options, especially if you’re bringing younger children.
Once Upon a Christmas at Heritage Park
When: Fridays to Sundays December 5–6, 12–13, and 19–20, from 10am to 4pm
Where: Heritage Park Historical Village, 1900 Heritage Dr. SW, Calgary
Admission: Ticketed; select activities cost extra
Step back in time and experience the magic of an old-fashioned Christmas at Heritage Park! The historic village comes alive with twinkling lights, beautiful decorations, traditional entertainment, and plenty of festive family activities.
Kids can visit Santa and his elves, decorate gingerbread cookies, enjoy a horse-drawn wagon ride, sing along with Christmas carollers, and discover how families celebrated the holidays in years gone by.
There’s also a Christmas Market filled with unique gifts, a special Kids’ Only Market where little shoppers can find presents, and the option to ride the Heritage Holiday Train. With so much to see and do, it’s a wonderful way to spend a festive December day together.
The Polar Express at Aspen Crossing
When: Select dates, Saturday November 14 – Thursday December 24
Where: Aspen Crossing, 24 Ave. and Highway 24, Mossleigh
Admission: Ticketed; advance reservations recommended
All aboard for a magical Christmas adventure! Inspired by the beloved holiday story, The Polar Express at Aspen Crossing invites families to climb aboard a festive train for an unforgettable journey to the North Pole.
Kids can enjoy holiday music, hot chocolate, and treats while experiencing the magic of the story brought to life. Along the way, they’ll meet festive characters and get swept up in the excitement of a very special Christmas train ride.
It’s a wonderful outing for children who love trains, Christmas stories, and a little holiday make-believe. The experience is especially popular with younger families, so booking early is a good idea if you have a particular date in mind.
Spruce Meadows International Christmas Market
When: Fridays to Sundays, November 13–15, 20–22, 27–29, and December 4–6
Where: Spruce Meadows, 18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW, Calgary
Admission: Ticketed; children two and under are free
If there’s one Christmas market that really knows how to go big, it’s Spruce Meadows! The International Christmas Market returns for four festive weekends this year, bringing together more than 325 local artisans, independent businesses, and specialty food vendors.
Families can explore beautifully decorated indoor pavilions and outdoor shopping areas, discover handmade gifts, indulge in festive treats, and enjoy live holiday entertainment. There’s also Santa’s Cozy Corner, where children can have their photos taken with Santa, and reindeer appearances on Sundays.
With twinkling lights and a charming European-inspired atmosphere, it’s a lovely place to spend a festive family afternoon. Just remember that Friday evenings after 6 p.m. are reserved for adults only, so plan an earlier visit if you’re bringing the kids.
Calgary Hitmen Teddy Bear Toss
When: Sunday December 6
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome, 555 Saddledome Rise SE, Calgary
Admission: Game ticket required; bring a new teddy bear to donate
Here’s a Calgary holiday tradition that’s as heartwarming as it is exciting! The annual Calgary Hitmen Teddy Bear Toss combines fast-paced junior hockey with one of the most memorable charitable events of the season.
Families are invited to bring a new stuffed animal to the game and get ready for a spectacular moment when the Hitmen score their first goal. That’s when thousands of teddy bears come flying from the stands onto the ice, creating an unforgettable scene!
The donated toys are distributed to local children and families through community organizations, making this a wonderful way to introduce kids to the joy of giving while enjoying a thrilling hockey game together. Just be sure to have your teddy bear ready when that first goal goes in!
ZOOLIGHTS at the Calgary Zoo
When: Friday November 13 – Sunday January 3, from 5:30pm to 9:30pm (closed December 25)
Where: Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo, 210 St. George’s Dr. NE, Calgary
Admission: Ticketed; advance online purchase recommended
One of Calgary’s most magical holiday traditions is back, and this year ZOOLIGHTS is celebrating its 30th anniversary! The Calgary Zoo transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland with more than one million twinkling lights illuminating the pathways, trees, and spectacular seasonal displays.
Families can explore glowing installations, enjoy interactive activities, warm up with festive treats, and visit Santa at his Polar Palace through December 23. This year’s celebration includes new light displays inspired by wildlife and the Canadian Prairies, along with plenty of returning favourites.
Allow about 90 minutes to explore the displays, and don’t forget to bundle up! The animal buildings are closed during ZOOLIGHTS, so this experience is all about the magic of the lights rather than visiting the animals.
