Notable Holiday Events in Calgary 2012

The Holidays are upon us and, although we are all considered ‘adults’, there is something about this time of year that brings out the kid in all of us. Calgary has all sorts of markets and events happening to indulge your inner child and pick up a few unique gifts along the way.

Christmas in Inglewood
Calgary’s oldest neighbourhood welcomes one and all to rediscover the city’s original Main Street along 9th Ave. SE, and more than 65 locally-owned, one-of-a-kind shops and restaurants that call it home. 

Throughout the first three weekends of December, Inglewood will be even easier to stop, shop, drink and dine in thanks to free weekend parking and the city’s most unique selection of holiday gift ideas. 

Zoo Lights
After dark, head the Calgary Zoo for an outdoor adventure. Come on, we know you want to. Wander through Zoolights surrounded by holiday cheer. Sip your hot chocolate, warm up by a fire pit, or watch ice carving demonstrations and performances by local Calgary choirs as you take in the great Canadian winter weather.
November 23 – January 5 

Twas the Night
A holiday event like no other, you can walk the red carpet with celebrity host Jessi Cruickshank (MTV, Etalk, E! Network). Arrive early to meet ELLE Canada Magazine Editor-in-Chief Noreen Flanagan and get your free copy of ELLE Canada’s coveted December issue (first 1,000 guests). The event will have a one-of-a-kind performance featuring excerpts of The Nutcracker, from the world-renowned Alberta Ballet, as well as the lighting of the CORE’s 40-foot Christmas tree. Of course you can also get all of your holiday shopping done in one night with one-night-only deals and offers in every store.
November 28

Once Upon a Christmas at Heritage Park
Experience the wonder and charm of an old-fashioned Christmas at Heritage Park. Enjoy a scenic horse-drawn wagon ride around the Park, take in live historical theatre, and sing carols in the church. Looking for great gifts? Stop by the Corner Emporium, Plaza Mercantile, Antiques and Collectables, Switzer’s Grocery and Confectionery and the Park Lane Portrait Studio in the Haskayne Mercantile Block.
November 23 – December 22

Christmas at Gallery 218
Featuring inspired and distinctive gift items and holiday décor, take the opportunity to shop locally. Look for wreaths, original art, sculpture, clothing and jewelry, preserves, and condiments.
December 1, 8, 15, 21 and 22

Festival of Crafts – Christmas Arts and Crafts Sale
The 24th Annual Festival of Crafts showcases the best Canadian handmade products. For four days only, the BMO Centre at Stampede Park is transformed into a magical marketplace of fine Canadian Handmade treasures and extraordinary gifts lovingly created by the 250 artisans, artists and designers.
November 29 – December 2

Photo courtesy Calgary Zoo