Fun & Exciting EVENTS in Calgary this WEEKEND - December 13-15, 2024
- Dec 12, 2024
- 11 min read
Hey Wanderers!
Ready to fill your weekend with festive fun? From December 13th to 15th, Calgary is buzzing with holiday magic, cozy experiences, and exciting activities to brighten up your days! Whether it’s checking out seasonal markets, savouring delicious winter treats, or diving into something new, there’s plenty to enjoy.
We’ve handpicked the best events and experiences to help you make the most of this weekend. So, grab your warmest coat, call up your friends, and get ready for a weekend of unforgettable moments. Let the holiday spirit take over—happy adventuring!
Friday, December 13, 2024
Chrismoose Carol
Where:
Loose Moose Theatre Company (1235 26 Avenue SE, Calgary, AB)
When:
December 13, 2024 from 8:00pm
Cost:
$25+
Details:
Chrismoose comes but once a year and, as always, a little differently!
The Loose Moose Theatre Company first produced Chrismoose Carol in 1996, and it proved to be so popular that it has become an annual event. Based on Charles Dickens classic story, we have presented our version in various ways over the years (i.e., as a western, as a three-person production where each evening the audience chose who would be playing Scrooge, and in Roman times, complete with chariot races!). Last year we produced a Sherlock Holmes/Ebeneezer Scrooge mashup, and this year we are pleased to present a brand new take (it's a secret) on this holiday classic.
For those who prefer their holiday treats not too sweet, and enjoy their entertainment slightly twisted, a wee bit cynical, and a whole lot of fun!
Nutcracker (In a Nutshell): Seton YMCA
Where:
Brookfield Residential YMCA Calgary in Seton (4995 market street, Calgary, AB)
When:
Dec. 13, 2024 from 10:30am - 11:00am
Cost:
$15+
Details:
Nutcracker (in a nutshell) is an engaging and fun performance for the whole family! This watch-and-play performance takes children through the classical ballet in just 30 minutes. After the "fuss-friendly" performance, children are invited to join the performers to dance, play and more. There are holiday crafts for the children 30 mins ahead of each show.
Spark After Dark: Greatest Hits
Where:
TELUS Spark (220 St. George's Drive NE, Calgary, AB)
When:
December 13, 2024 from 6:00pm
Cost:
$33
Details:
Greatest Hits of 2024: Science, Shenanigans, and Seriously Good Times!
Get ready to bust out your best holiday sweater and rally the crew for Spark After Dark: Greatest Hits on December 13! This is the ultimate Spark After Dark of 2024, where all your favourites from the past year collide in one epic party. Whether you loved February’s Tender Tingles, April’s STEAMpunk, June’s AI & Us, August’s Body Mod, or October’s Killer Psyche, it’s all coming back for one wild night!
Those warm and fuzzy feels? Yeah, that’s just your brain chemistry at work, and there’s no escaping it. So why fight science? Join the year-end bash and close out 2024 with a bang!
SNOW BALL – Christmas in Capitol Hill
Where:
Capitol Hill Community Association (1531 21 Avenue NW, Calgary, AB)
When:
December 13, 2024 from 6:00pm
Cost:
FREE with food donation
Details:
A festive and free evening of jolly puppets, live music, family activities, and Christmas cheer! On Friday, December 13, head on over to Capitol Hill Community Association for the 2024 SNOW BALL.
WP Puppet Stuff will perform their new Christmas show at the beginning of the evening (6 pm). Kelly T Overdrive will take the stage with boot-stompin’ tunes. A second unique puppet show will happen at 7:30 pm.
What a night! Did we mention free kids’ activities and crafts, a food truck, and lounge service featuring a variety of refreshments?
Shrek Rave
Where:
Dickens (1000 9th Avenue SW, Calgary, AB)
When:
December 13, 2024 from 10:00pm
Cost:
$27
Details:
Shrek the Halls is coming to Calgary at Dickens on Dec 13th! IT’S DUMB JUST COME HAVE FUN. WHO CARES. COOL IS DEAD. idk hahaha. Tickets are on-sale now
Audien
Where:
The Palace Theatre (219 - 8th Ave SW, Calgary, AB)
When:
December 13, 2024 from 9:00pm
Cost:
$41+
Details:
Nathaniel “Nate” Rathbun, better known under his stage name Audien, is an American DJ and electronic music producer. Audien has released many singles and remixes for electronic record labels including Enhanced, Perceptive, Armada, Black Hole, and Nervous. Wikipedia
The Nutcracker – Alberta Ballet
Where:
Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium (1415 14 Ave. NW, Calgary, AB)
When:
December 13 - 24, 2024
Cost:
$70+
Details:
Celebrate the holidays with the timeless charm of Alberta Ballet’s enchanting tradition. Join Klara and her Nutcracker in their valiant battle against the cunning Rat King and travel with them to the Sugar Plum Fairy’s palace, where sweet delights inspire everyone from the most seasoned ballet fan to the youngest guest in the crowd.
With 120 extraordinary performers, dazzling costumes, breathtaking sets, all accompanied by a live orchestra, Klara’s adventure sparkles once again.
Christmas at the Nation
Where:
Seven Chiefs Sportsplex and Chief Jim Starlight Centre (19 Bullhead Road, Tsuut’ina Nation, AB)
When:
December 13-15, 2024
Cost:
$10
Details:
Support Indigenous and local artists and businesses at the third annual Christmas on the Nation Holiday Market. In partnership with the Seven Chiefs Sportsplex & Chief Jim Starlight Centre and Taza, this new holiday market will feature over 150 Indigenous and local artists.
Artisans and makers promise to amaze you with their talents and appreciate your commitment to supporting local. Find the perfect gift for someone on your list or treat yourself with a beautiful little treasure. Don’t miss out on the warmth and welcome of the people of the Tsuut’ina Nation.
Enjoy a festive indoor holiday atmosphere, Tsuut’ina Nation dance performances, Indigenous craft corner, teepees, Santa Claus, and food from our concession in Seven Chiefs Sportsplex. As well as our treasured Canadian experience of skating outdoors under the roof of the outdoor arena during market hours. There is no cost to skate, so bring your skates, and helmets for the kids. No hockey sticks or pucks, please.
Saturday, December 14, 2024
WanderingInYYC Presents: The Last Hurrah Christmas Market
Get ready to shop, connect, and celebrate the holiday season!
WanderingInYYC is excited to host our FIRST-EVER event: The Last Hurrah Christmas Market. This one-of-a-kind market brings together local Calgary vendors offering unique, handmade, and meaningful gifts perfect for the holidays.
✨ Why attend?
Explore and support talented Calgary vendors.
Find the perfect gifts for your loved ones (or yourself)!
Participate in a festive raffle giveaway valued at $450+ with amazing prizes, including exclusive products from our vendors and WanderingInYYC swag!
🎁 Raffle Information:
1 raffle ticket for pre-registering (must attend event to receive entry)
1 raffle ticket just for attending!
1 additional raffle ticket for every purchase from a vendor.
Purchase extra tickets ($5 each) to support our chosen charity.
What to Expect
A curated selection of local vendors offering art, crafts, clothing, jewelry, and more.
Festive vibes to get you into the holiday spirit.
No fee to attend, but we’d love for you to register so we can plan for your arrival!
CHRISTMAS COMEDY Party SHOW
Where:
The Canadian Brewhouse (3953 University Avenue NW, Calgary, AB)
When:
December 14, 2024 from 7:00pm
Cost:
$23
Details:
FEATURING Stand Up Comics:
4 Hilarious Comedians
STU HUGHES - Clever, authentic and eccentricly hilarious!
JOE KING - "The King of Comedy" - An accomplished impressionist, with a keen - eye for pop culture. Joe will wow you with his witty interpretations of celebrities as he creates laughter.
Plus special Guests
[FREE] Make a wooden ornament with Susanah Windrum
Where:
Alberta Craft Gallery & Shop (280, 1721 29 AVE SW, Calgary, AB)
When:
December 14, 2024 from 10:00am - 2:00pm
Cost:
FREE
Details:
Susanah Windrum will teach us how to decorate wood slices with your favorite holiday imagery. With a string, they can be hung anywhere you need a little cheer.
Ages 4+
Parents must be present to supervise or make their own flower
Free workshop
BESTIES x TUU Wreath Workshop
Where:
TUU by COUTUKITSCH (902 9 Avenue SE, Calgary, AB)
When:
Dec. 14, 2024 from 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Cost:
$75
Details:
Join us at the BESTIES x TUU Teardrop Wreath Workshop for a fun and creative evening at TUU by COUTUKITSCH! Enjoy cocktails, charcuterie, and a private shopping experience before you get your craft on and learn how to make a beautiful wreath to decorate your home. No experience necessary - just bring your creativity and we'll provide all the materials you need. Your ticket includes the workshop, food and drink, 20% off COUTUKITSCH jewelry, and 10% off the rest of the store. Limited spots available, so grab your bestie and reserve your spot now!
The Queens & Kings Who Stole Christmas - A Drag Show
Where:
116 7 Ave SE, Calgary, AB
When:
Dec. 14, 2024 from 7:00pm - 9:30pm
Cost:
$12
Details:
Join us for a royal holiday extravaganza as the Kings and Queens of the season steal Christmas cheer!
Sounds of the Season
Where:
Bella Concert Hall (18 Mt Royal Circle SW, Calgary, AB)
When:
Dec. 14, 2024 from 7:30pm
Cost:
$30+
Details:
Celebrating the festive season in song, Mount Royal Conservatory ensembles including the Calgary Youth Orchestra, Mount Royal Kantorei and Zhi-Yin choir take the Bella stage at the Taylor Centre for the Performing Arts. This merry event also features an appearance by Calgary’s favourite comic a cappella quartet, the Heebee-jeebees. Enjoy an evening featuring Handel’s famous Hallelujah Chorus with all three choirs and full orchestra, individual choral and orchestral works, as well as a few classics with a twist.
After Hours: Holiday Edition
Where:
Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre (850 4 Street SE, Calgary, AB)
When:
Dec. 14, 2024 from 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Cost:
$32+
Details:
Get ready to “Sleigh the Night Away” at the best holiday bash of the year!
Enjoy an unforgettable after-hours experience featuring live performances from talented local artists, DJs spinning tunes for dancing all night long, seasonal-themed cocktails served at the bar, local vendors and brand activations, festive photo-ops, and holiday décor decking the five floors of Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre.
Gather your colleagues or your closest friends and celebrate in style at this festive 18+ holiday party. Located in the heart of East Village, this event offers everything from corporate packages to group party packages, or simply a fun night out with friends. Whatever the occasion, bring your crew and enjoy an unforgettable evening of music, drinks, and holiday cheer!
Christmas with New West
Where:
Jack Singer Concert Hall (225 8 Ave SE, Calgary, AB)
When:
Dec. 14, 2024 from 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Cost:
$35+
Details:
Celebrate the JOY and HOPE of Christmas with New West Symphony & Chorus and New West Student Ensemble at Christmas with New West. This lively concert features choir and orchestra music from a wide variety of musical genres, including classical, gospel, contemporary, and new twists on traditional Christmas carols. It will definitely be a highlight of your Christmas season!
Sunday, December 15, 2024
Cocoa & Crafts
Where:
The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland, 750 9 Avenue SE, Calgary, AB)
When:
December 15, 2024 from 10:30am - 12:30pm
Cost:
$15
Details:
Spend a festive morning making crafts at The Confluence! Warm up with hot chocolate and snacks and create four holiday-themed crafts perfect for little ones to give as gifts or to decorate with.
Craft options will include two types of Christmas trees, an elf portrait and a reindeer gift bag. Pick one or make them all!
Tickets include materials, hot chocolate, snacks and admission to The Confluence Cultural Centre.
Brits Christmas dinner
Where:
The Dorset Pub & Eatery (1637 37 Street SW, Calgary, AB)
When:
Dec. 15, 2024 from 3:30pm - 10:00pm
Cost:
$44
Details:
Welcome to the Brits Christmas dinner at The Dorset Pub & Eatery!
We have you covered no moping around thinking about the mother country. We have the snow and a chance to enjoy a proper Christmas dinner; Christmas music, trivia and games meet lots of fellow Brits.
A Child’s Christmas in Wales Reading & Carols
Where:
Cornerstone Music Cafe (4919 Deer Ridge Drive SE, Calgary, AB)
When:
December 15, 2024 from 4:30pm 6:00pm
Cost:
$18
Details:
Join us on Sunday, December 15th, from 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM for a magical evening as we bring Dylan Thomas’s nostalgic masterpiece, A Child’s Christmas in Wales, to life. This heartwarming story by the celebrated Welsh poet evokes the timeless beauty and cherished traditions of Christmas past. Experience the warmth of family gatherings, the charm of a mistletoe-adorned home, the coziness of cats by the fire, and the playful mischief of children—culminating in the joy of receiving gifts, both “Useful” and “Useless.”
Tickets are $25 per person and $15 for youth (14 and under). Each ticket includes a cup of Cornerstone Music Café’s famous hot chocolate, the perfect companion to a festive evening.
Grinch & ELF Christmas Trivia
Where:
Brewsters Brewing Company and Restaurant (25 Crowfoot Terrace NW, Calgary, AB)
When:
December 15, 2024 from 2:00pm - 4:30pm
Cost:
$17+
Details:
Tremendous Trivia and Brewsters are excited to bring you an afternoon of trivia based on 2 of the best christmas films of our generation!
This trivia night will focus on How The Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) and ELF (2003) . So don your favorite ugly christmas sweater and cuddle up for a double feature of holiday joy. The trivia will include visual rounds, questions, and quotes from these amazing films. We'll also be giving out prizes for our winning teams, door prizes, and prizes for UGLIEST CHRISTMAS SWEATER!
Tickets start at $14 (plus taxes and fees) $20 cash at the door. Teams of up to 8 welcome.
Birding On St. Patrick's Island (Christmas Bird Count)
Where:
656 Confluence Way SE, Calgary, AB
When:
December 15, 2024 from 9:00am
Cost:
$5
Details:
Join Nature Calgary for a bird walk on St. Patrick's Island on December 15, 2024 and observe the fascinating variety of birds found in their natural habitat. This isn't just your regular bird walk as it's part of the 73rd annual Calgary Christmas Bird Count!
Please note that this event will run 9:00am - 11:00am
Christmas Gnomes and Grinch Trees Festive Workshop
Where:
Hounsfield Heights Briar Hill Community Association (1928 14 Avenue NW, Calgary, AB)
When:
December 15, 2024 from 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Cost:
$75
Details:
Come join us at the Rosebud Community Hall for a jolly good time at our Christmas Gnomes and Grinch Trees Festive Workshop! Get into the holiday spirit by crafting your very own adorable gnomes to decorate your home or give as gifts. Our experienced instructors will guide you through the process, making it fun and easy for everyone. Don't miss out on this festive event filled with creativity and cheer!
What's Included:
Fabric for Gnome Hats
Stuffing, and face embellishments
Real fresh greenery (fir, cedar, other)
Paddle wire
What you need to bring:
gloves that fit you (greenery can be messy)
hot glue gun and glue for touch-ups (I will have some on hand)
Sauna and River Plunge Experience
Where:
Pearce Estate Park (1440 17A Street SE, Calgary, AB)
When:
December 15, 2024
Cost:
$55
Details:
Join us for an invigorating and immersive Sauna and Cold Plunge Experience at Pearce Estate Park! This 75-minute session offers a unique opportunity to explore the transformative benefits of alternating between heat and cold. Whether you’re new to cold plunging or a seasoned enthusiast, you’ll enjoy a supportive and fun environment designed to help you connect with your breath, your body, and nature.
What to Expect:
• Three Rounds of Sauna and Cold Plunge: Transition between the warmth of the sauna and the invigorating cold plunge three times, each round deepening your practice and enhancing the benefits.
• Guided Breathwork: Learn powerful breathing techniques to help regulate your body and mind, making each plunge more accessible and enjoyable.
• Education and Insights: Discover the science-backed benefits of sauna and cold plunging, including improved circulation, stress reduction, and mental clarity.
We can’t wait to see where you wander this week!
Be sure to tag @WanderingInYYC / #WanderingInYYC in your stories and posts—we love following along with your adventures around the city and seeing how you make the most of December 13-15!
Have a blast, and happy wandering!
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