The winter season in Calgary transforms the city into a real fairy tale, where sparkling lights and the aromas of hot chocolate and gingerbread fill the air with festive magic. New Year's markets and Christmas fairs become the heart of the city throughout November and December, offering a unique opportunity not only to buy unusual gifts for loved ones, but also to immerse yourself in an atmosphere reminiscent of classic European Christmas markets. For Ukrainians who have recently moved to Calgary or have been living here for several years, these events are a way to experience the festive spirit in their new country while supporting local artisans and small businesses.
Calgary's holiday fairs are diverse, ranging from large-scale international markets with hundreds of vendors to intimate community markets in different neighborhoods, from glamorous events in the city center to cozy rural fairs in the suburbs. Each event has its own unique atmosphere and characteristics, making them appealing to different audiences. Some markets are free and accessible to the whole family, while others require tickets but guarantee a premium experience with entertainment programs and additional activities. In this article, we'll take a detailed look at the best places to go during the holiday season to enjoy the true spirit of Christmas in Calgary.
Large international and city fairs: the epicenter of the holiday spirit
When it comes to large-scale holiday events that attract tens of thousands of visitors each year, Calgary boasts several iconic fairs that have become true traditions for many families. These events are distinguished by their professional organization, wide selection of vendors, and entertainment programs, making them a real treat for the whole family.
Spruce Meadows International Christmas Market
Spruce Meadows International Christmas Market is Calgary's largest and most famous Christmas market, held at the world-renowned Spruce Meadows equestrian complex. In 2025, the market will celebrate its 24th season and will run over three weekends: November 14-16, 21-23, and 28-30. The scale of this event is impressive: more than 325 vendors are located in indoor venues, including the Riding Hall, Equi-Plex, Horizons Pavilion, as well as themed areas called Reindeer Alley and Candy Cane Lane. Admission to the grounds is $20 for adults and $12 for children aged 3 to 12 and seniors over 65; children under 2 are admitted free of charge. Organizers recommend purchasing tickets online in advance, as the most popular days often sell out. The uniqueness of Spruce Meadows lies in its combination of European charm and Canadian hospitality. Visitors can find authentic imported goods from around the world alongside products made by local Alberta artisans. New for 2025 is Congress Hall, a huge indoor space covering over 11,500 square feet, which houses a food court with local food and even a candy bar with sweets. In addition to shopping, there is live music and entertainment programs throughout the fairgrounds, and on Sundays, you can meet Santa's real reindeer and visit a mini petting zoo. In the evenings, the entire area is transformed into a fairy-tale illumination with millions of lights, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for photo shoots near the majestic Spruce Meadows buildings. Hours of operation are typically Fridays from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.### Market Collective Holiday MarketsMarket Collective Holiday Markets is a favorite event for those who appreciate modern creativity, support local artists, and enjoy a unique atmosphere that is more like an art festival than a traditional market. This market takes place at the BMO Centre in Hall D at Calgary Stampede Park over two weekends: December 5-7 and December 12-14, 2025. Market Collective has earned a reputation as the coolest creative market in town thanks to its careful selection of participants—more than 150 local artists, designers, artisans, and food producers showcase their work, with 35% of vendors changing every weekend, which means there are always fresh discoveries for those who come both times.Admission is $10 for the weekend, and children under 12 are free. The hours are convenient for different schedules: Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. In addition to shopping, at Market Collective you can enjoy live music from DJs and musicians, take part in interactive workshops — from creating your own jewelry to pottery on a potter's wheel, making puppets with WP Puppet Theatre, and designing holiday cards on a vintage printing press. There is a special area for children, and you can also take professional photos with Santa from renowned Calgary photographer Heather Saitz. This event attracts a younger, trendy audience looking for something special and supporting independent creators.### Banff Christmas Market
Banff Christmas Market, although technically not in Calgary, is only an hour's drive away and deserves special attention for those who want to combine holiday shopping with incredible mountain views. The market is held at Banff Train Station, a historic railway station in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. In 2025, the market will be open for four weekends: a special Twinkle Night on Thursday, November 20, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., followed by weekends on November 21-23, November 28-30, December 5-7, and December 12-14. Hours are Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Banff Christmas Market features over 175 artisans showcasing unique products inspired by Rocky Mountain culture and Alberta's western heritage. Ticket prices vary depending on the date: the cheapest are Early Bird tickets, which are sold from September 1 to 15 for $12 for adults. Twinkle Night offers a 50% discount with tickets priced at $7.50 for adults, $6 for seniors 65+, and only $2.50 for children 3-10. On regular days, the cost is $15 for adults or $36 for a Weekend Pass, which allows unlimited entry throughout the weekend without prior time reservations. It is worth noting that 100% of the proceeds from the sale of children's tickets are donated to the Shine Foundation charity. Live music plays daily at the market from 10:30 a.m., Santa welcomes guests from 11:30 a.m., there is an outdoor fire lounge for warming up with hot drinks, Santa's House & Workshop, and you can also expect surprise visits from the Green Grinch.
Traditional and historical holiday events: a journey into Christmases of centuries past
For those who want to experience the true spirit of old-fashioned Christmas and immerse themselves in an atmosphere reminiscent of a time when the holidays were celebrated without commercial trappings, Calgary offers unique historical locations that allow you to literally step back in time.
Once Upon A Christmas at Heritage Park
Once Upon A Christmas at Heritage Park is one of Calgary's most beloved holiday traditions, which has been around for over two decades. Heritage Park is Canada's largest living history museum, and during the holiday season, it transforms into a true Victorian Christmas with all its magical traditions. In 2025, the event takes place on the weekends of December 6-7, 13-14, and 20-21, as well as on the special dates of December 22-23, which is new this year, as the market previously only operated on weekends. Hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Tickets are $19.95 plus GST for adults (16+), $14.95 for children (3-15), and free for children under 3. Heritage Park offers a special Holiday Bundle deal: 4 tickets for $40, which is a significant savings for families. Heritage Park annual members receive free admission to all Once Upon A Christmas days, which is a great benefit for those who plan to visit the museum several times throughout the year. Parking is paid, but the park is conveniently located just 20 minutes from downtown, and you can take the shuttle from the Heritage LRT station.
What makes Once Upon A Christmas so special? First and foremost, it's the authenticity of the historical experience. Visitors can ride in horse-drawn carriages that take you through the historic streets of a snow-covered early 20th-century settlement. At the Famous Five House, you can sing Christmas carols by the crackling fireplace and meet Santa Claus. Children can make their own crafts in workshops, watch holiday performances, and at Weedon School, there are screenings of historical Christmas stories along with Métis folklore heritage. New for 2025 is the Heritage Holiday Train, the first-ever winter train at Heritage Park, where you can enjoy entertainment and the festive atmosphere. Also worth visiting is the Christmas LEGO display at Baron's Snooker Parlour and trying ice cream from Foothills Creamery at a special pop-up kiosk. During peak hours, magicians roam the grounds, and the holiday market offers unique gifts from local artisans. All of this creates an atmosphere that makes you feel like you've stepped into a real Christmas card from the last century.
Lions Festival of Lights
The Lions Festival of Lights is not a market in the traditional sense, but it is the largest free Christmas light display in Calgary and has become a must-see part of the holiday season for many families. The festival takes place in Confederation Park at the corner of 14th Street and 24th Avenue NW and runs from November 22, 2025, to January 8, 2026. This is the 39th season of this beloved tradition, organized by 21 Lions Clubs from the Calgary area and volunteers from IBEW #254. The grand opening takes place on November 22 at 5:00 p.m. with the mayor lighting the lights at 6:00 p.m., as well as hot chocolate, cookies, ice sculptures, and fireworks.
After the official opening, the lights will be turned on every evening at 5:30 p.m. and will remain lit until midnight. The festival features an impressive number of lights — 850,000 LED bulbs on 30,000 strings located throughout the park. Visitors can see classic Christmas figures, a huge lighted bear on a hill, an illuminated tipi, numerous trees wrapped in colorful lights, and unique displays with the words “Merry Christmas” in different languages of the world. A special advantage of this place is the opportunity not only to look at the lights, but also to actively spend time: the park has a wonderful hill for sledding, making it the most beautiful place for winter entertainment in Calgary at night. There is also a cross-country ski trail around the park, which is completely free. Admission to the festival is free, although organizers encourage visitors to bring non-perishable food items for the Calgary Food Bank, especially during the grand opening. Parking can be a challenge as there is no designated area, so it is recommended to arrive before dark, walk around the park, go sledding, and wait until dark, or park at the North Hill Shopping Center.
Unique and unconventional holiday markets
Calgary offers not only classic Christmas markets, but also unique events that stand out for their cultural focus, unusual atmosphere, or original concept. These markets allow you to discover new facets of the holiday season and support specific communities.
Christmas at the Nation
Christmas at the Nation on the Tsuut'ina Nation is one of the largest Indigenous holiday markets in Alberta and a unique opportunity to learn about the culture and creativity of Canada's Indigenous peoples. The fair takes place December 12-14, 2025, at the Seven Chiefs Sportsplex and Chief Jim Starlight Centre, located approximately 20 kilometers southwest of downtown Calgary. The event is organized in partnership with the Tsuut'ina Nation and supported by the Taza development team, demonstrating the nation's commitment to economic development, cultural continuity, and community cohesion.
The market features over 200 Indigenous and local artists and artisans offering beaded items, traditional artworks, clothing, home goods, and unique handmade items. It's the perfect place to purchase truly meaningful gifts that carry cultural value and support Indigenous businesses. Admission is $10 for adults, and children 12 and under are free. Parking is also free. Hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on all three days (Friday, Saturday, Sunday).
In addition to shopping, Christmas at the Nation offers a rich cultural program. Every day, there are dance performances by members of the Tsuut'ina Nation in traditional costumes, demonstrating the energy and power of indigenous traditions. In the indoor area, elders hold storytelling sessions, sharing the history, teachings, and winter tales of the nation. Families can take photos with Santa, festive characters roam the grounds, and on Sundays there are special performances by indigenous musicians and artists. There are also concessions offering seasonal food and hot drinks. Visitors describe the atmosphere as extremely welcoming — at Tsuut'ina Nation, they say “GUJAKA NANIYAɁI,” which means “Welcome.” This event is not just a fair, but an important celebration of indigenous resilience, traditions, and creativity, allowing for a deeper understanding of First Nations history and culture.
Authentically Indigenous Holiday Art Market
Authentically Indigenous Holiday Art Market is another opportunity to support Indigenous artists, taking place December 5-7, 2025, at The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland in downtown Calgary. The market features over 70 Indigenous artists and artisans, offering art, fashion, cultural products, and a community celebration atmosphere. Admission is $5 per day or $8 for a weekend pass for all three days. Hours vary depending on the day. The event also includes music and the opportunity to celebrate the season through the lens of Indigenous identity.
Granary Road Christmas Market
Granary Road Christmas Market offers a truly unique experience combining a holiday market with an alpaca farm, making it a favorite spot for families with children. The market takes place every Saturday and Sunday from November 22 to December 14, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Granary Road, located between Okotoks and South Calgary (about a 10-minute drive from the city). The location is at 226066 112 St W, De Winton.
Admission to the market and parking are free. The market is held in a covered greenhouse with 40-foot vaulted ceilings, exposed beams, and lighting reminiscent of times gone by. Dozens of local artisans, bakers, and creators offer unique handmade gifts, holiday decorations, and delicious delicacies. Friendly alpacas dressed in festive costumes are located nearby, creating a magical atmosphere for photos.
In addition to basic shopping, Granary Road offers a wide range of paid activities that must be booked online in advance as they sell out quickly. These include Festive Goat Yoga, an unusual combination of yoga with playful goats in festive outfits, Alpaca Holiday Photos with the farm's friendly alpacas, Santa's Holiday Brunch on December 6, 7, 13, and 14, where you can enjoy festive food and a personal visit from Santa, as well as master classes on making Christmas arrangements. For children, there is the Indoor Discovery Centre, an imaginative space for play and learning. Tractor rides around the farm and hot chocolate are also available. The Festive Fun Package includes a tractor ride, hot chocolate, and admission to The Fabulous & Fantastic Farm Exhibit. Many visitors describe Granary Road as the most unique holiday destination in the Calgary area thanks to its combination of rural charm, cute animals, and quality local products.
Community and neighborhood fairs: the local spirit of celebration
Throughout Calgary and surrounding communities, dozens of smaller neighborhood fairs organized by community associations and local groups take place throughout November and December. These events are usually free or have a minimal admission fee, offering a more intimate atmosphere and an opportunity to support local artisans from your area.
Inglewood Night Market – Holiday Edition
The Inglewood Night Market – Holiday Edition transforms the popular summer market into a cozy indoor holiday bazaar. The event takes place over three weekends in November: November 14-15, 21-22, and 28-29, 2025, at The Quonset at Crossroads Market (1235 26 Ave SE). Admission is $5, with free admission for seniors 65 and older and children 12 and under. Hours are from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The market features over 50 rotating artisans selling a variety of goods, from handmade items to vintage clothing, antiques, and collectibles, as well as artisan food. Live music, cocktails, and a modern atmosphere attract a younger, trendy crowd to the historic Inglewood neighborhood.
Millarville Christmas Market
Millarville Christmas Market, although located outside the city (about 35 minutes southwest of Calgary), is one of Alberta's oldest and most respected holiday traditions, dating back to 1988. In 2025, the market celebrates its 37th season and runs for eight days: November 6-9 and 13-16, daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Millarville Racetrack. Tickets must be purchased in advance: $7.50 plus GST online (limited availability) or $10 at the door (including GST). Tickets go on sale September 15, and popular weekends sell out quickly, so it's best to plan ahead.
Millarville offers over 300 vendors located both indoors (Arena, Hall, Quonset, and large heated tents) and outdoors, so it's important to dress in layers and wear appropriate footwear as it can get muddy. The market features arts, crafts, jewelry, artisan foods, and unique gifts, all from Alberta producers. There is a special Kids Only Shoppe (weekends only) where children aged 5 to 12 can choose gifts for family members for $15 or less with the help of elves, and each gift is wrapped and labeled to keep it a secret until Christmas. Proceeds from the Kids Shoppe are distributed among six local Foothills School Division schools to support hot lunch programs. There are food trucks on site, you can see reindeer, take a photo with Santa, get your face painted, and enjoy music and mulled wine or hot cocoa. Many visitors describe Millarville as a more authentic, less commercial holiday experience that is worth the trip.
Bearspaw Christmas Market
Bearspaw Christmas Market takes place at the Bearspaw Lifestyle Centre (253220 Bearspaw Rd, northwest of Calgary) over two weekends: November 28-30 and December 5-7, 2025. Hours of operation are Fridays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $5, and children under 3 are free. The market features over 80 vendors selling handmade crafts, holiday decorations, and delicious delicacies. Families can enjoy wagon rides, entertainment, and fireworks every Saturday at 6:00 p.m. You can also meet Santa, warm up by the bonfires, and enjoy the cozy holiday atmosphere.
Cochrane Christmas Farmers' Market
Cochrane Christmas Farmers' Market takes place in the neighboring town of Cochrane (about 30 minutes west of Calgary) on December 13-14, 2025, at the Spray Lake Sawmills Family Sports Centre (800 Griffin Rd E). The market is open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on both days. Admission and parking are free, although donations to the Cochrane Food Bank are welcome. This is the largest market of the season in Cochrane, located on two floors of a huge sports complex. More than 130 Alberta vendors adhere to the “make, bake or grow” rule — meaning they only sell what they have made, baked or grown themselves, with no big corporations or franchises. Visitors can find handmade crafts, fresh baked goods, preserves, specialty gifts, and even gift baskets with local beer, fruit wines, and preserves. Organizers recommend arriving early for the best selection and dressing warmly, as it is a large indoor space in winter.
Bragg Creek Spirit of Christmas Festival
The Bragg Creek Spirit of Christmas Festival takes place in the picturesque mountain community of Bragg Creek (about 45 minutes west of Calgary) on December 6-7, 2025. The festival consists of two parts: an indoor market and outdoor holiday activities. The indoor market is open on December 5 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., then on December 6 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and December 7 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Bragg Creek Centre (23 White Avenue). The market features over 45 small and local vendors offering handmade gifts, delicious delicacies, and the authentic charm of Bragg Creek. Admission is free.
Holiday activities take place on Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and include horse-drawn carriage rides, a kids-only shopping area where children can buy gifts on their own, photos with Santa, gingerbread house building workshops, and many other cozy holiday experiences. There are community bonfires throughout Bragg Creek where you can warm up, and local businesses also organize special activities. The atmosphere in Bragg Creek is especially magical thanks to the mountain surroundings, the small size of the community, and the old-fashioned rural Christmas feel.
City holiday events and entertainment
In addition to traditional fairs, Calgary offers a range of other holiday events and entertainment that complement the Christmas experience and create a special atmosphere in the city throughout the winter season.
ZOOLIGHTS at Calgary Zoo
ZOOLIGHTS at Calgary Zoo is one of Calgary's most beloved and longest-running holiday traditions, celebrating its 29th season in 2025. Organized by the Olympia Trust Company, the event transforms the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo grounds into a magical winter wonderland with over one million lights and nearly 250 light figures, including interactive and choreographed light displays. ZOOLIGHTS runs from November 14, 2025, to January 4, 2026 (closed on November 25 for a private event and December 25 for Christmas). Hours are every evening from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., with last admission at 8:30 p.m.
New installations for 2025 include Rocky Mountain Trail, a projection of Rocky Mountain animals onto mountain scenery near Bamboo-tique, and an even brighter version of the Merry and Bright Tree Display, presented by TC Energy, with colorful ground lighting and a choreographed light show set to holiday music in Dorothy Harvie Gardens. At Holiday Gardens, visitors can enjoy Christmas lights and photo zones. Classic favorite attractions are available on site: an ice rink (Excel Homes sponsors free carousel rides for all ZOOLIGHTS visitors!), Tunnel of Love, axe throwing, and bonfires for warmth. On special dates, separately paid events are available, such as the Snow Globe Experience—rent a private “snow dome” for an exclusive dinner under the light of millions of lights—and ZOOLIGHTS Festive Feast for a warm, delicious dinner.
Member Mondays (the first five Mondays of ZOOLIGHTS: November 17 and 24, December 1, 8, and 15) give zoo members exclusive access to the Asia Tent, bonfires on Dinny Lawn, and a build-your-own hot chocolate bar, plus a special members-only time from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. to visit Santa. On New Year's Eve, December 31, ZOOLIGHTS will operate as usual from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with additional free children's activities, including interactive entertainment from the Wilder Bunch Performance Troupe, face painting, and a crafting station. A Sunlight to ZOOLIGHTS combo ticket is also available, allowing you to visit the zoo during the day starting at 1:00 p.m. and stay for ZOOLIGHTS that same evening with one discounted ticket. Organizers strongly recommend purchasing tickets in advance online for maximum savings.
Chinook Blast
Chinook Blast is Calgary's premier winter festival, returning in 2026 to a new location — the newly renovated Eau Claire Plaza. The sixth season of the festival will run from January 30 to February 16, 2026, and promises to be the biggest, brightest, and boldest in history. Chinook Blast combines art, performances, music, food, and sports in a free-to-the-public format, making winter fun accessible to everyone. Eau Claire Plaza will be transformed into an art-focused gathering space filled with huge light installations, live performances, interactive experiences, and family activities.
The program includes the return of the legendary Drag on Ice 4 featuring Joey Jay from RuPaul's Drag Race and Calgary star Karla Marx, the open music showcase Blue Sessions, and a special Valentine's Day program with intimate live music sets highlighting themes of love and unity. On opening day, January 30, Calgary Folk Festival's Block Heater Festival will feature art-rock band 'ome and Indigenous-led Artist Society, which focuses on hip-hop and the arts. At the end of the festival on February 16, Ethnik Festival will add to the celebration with Europop from Skinny Blizf and singer-songwriter Ray Val in honor of Family Day. The venue will also feature night markets with Indigenous-led showcases, vintage fashion, second-hand and local goods, as well as a beer garden with craft beverages, mulled wine and seasonal favorites for a cozy social atmosphere. The full program will be announced in January 2026.
Stephen Avenue
Stephen Avenue in downtown Calgary also transforms during the holiday season, especially during Chinook Blast 2025, when four blocks of the legendary street (from 1st Street SE to 3rd Street SW) become a bright winter wonderland. Seven new art installations will debut exclusively at Chinook Blast, including shadow mural artwork by Brian Faubert and INFRA by Tonya Hart — a composition of life-size wolf sculptures. Live music, roaming performances, and even life-size puppets will be heard and seen along the street. Also in November, Stephen Avenue hosts The Downtown Markets on November 18, 2025, and festive lighting and decorations create a holiday atmosphere for strolling and photo opportunities throughout the season.
Practical tips for visiting holiday markets
To get the most out of Calgary's Christmas markets and avoid disappointment, here are some practical tips to help make your experience comfortable and enjoyable.
Planning and tickets
Many popular events, especially Spruce Meadows, Banff Christmas Market, Millarville, and ZOOLIGHTS, require advance ticket purchases online. Weekends often sell out in advance, especially Saturdays and Sundays closer to Christmas. By purchasing tickets online in advance, you not only guarantee yourself entry, but often save money as well, since Early Bird rates and online discounts can be significantly lower than prices at the gate. Families should look for bundle deals, such as the Heritage Park Holiday Bundle (4 tickets for $40) or the Weekend Pass in Banff (unlimited entry throughout the weekend).
Time of visit
If you want to avoid the crowds, plan your visits on weekdays (for fairs that are open every day, such as ZOOLIGHTS or Banff) or early in the morning on weekends. Fridays are usually less crowded than Saturdays. Banff offers a special Twinkle Night on Thursdays with 50% discounts so that people can enjoy the market before the main influx of visitors. For outdoor or partially outdoor markets (Millarville, Granary Road), try to arrive closer to midday when the sun is warmest if the weather is cold.
Clothing and preparation
Alberta winters can be harsh, especially when temperatures drop below -20°C with the wind chill. Even if the fair is mostly indoors, you will have to walk between buildings or from the parking lot. Dress in layers: thermal underwear, a warm sweater or fleece jacket, a winter coat, a hat, gloves, and warm boots with good insulation and non-slip soles (especially important for Millarville, where it can be muddy and slippery). For events like Heritage Park or the Lions Festival, where you spend a lot of time outside, it's a good idea to have hand warmers and a thermos with a hot drink. If you're bringing children, be sure to dress them warmer than you think is necessary and bring extra gloves, as they often get lost.
Transportation and Parking
Parking can be a challenge at popular events. Spruce Meadows has a large lot, but it can get busy during peak hours. Heritage Park and the Calgary Zoo have paid parking. For downtown events (Market Collective at the BMO Centre, Authentically Indigenous at The Confluence), consider using Calgary Transit or rideshare to avoid searching for a spot and paying for parking. The Lions Festival of Lights does not have dedicated parking, so arrive early or use the North Hill Shopping Centre. For remote locations (Millarville, Bragg Creek, Cochrane, Banff), allow extra time for travel, especially in snowy weather, and check road conditions before you leave via Alberta 511.
Budget and payments
Most modern fairs accept credit cards, but some small vendors or community events may only accept cash (for example, the Scandinavian Christmas Market asks you to bring a loonie for admission, and some vendors at Cochrane and Millarville only accept cash or checks). It's a good idea to carry some cash for these situations. Also, factor in additional expenses: parking, food and drinks on site (usually more expensive than in restaurants), and impulse purchases from artisans. Set a budget for gifts and stick to it so you don't spend more than you planned.
Food and drinks
Almost all major fairs have food courts or food trucks offering a variety of foods, from traditional German sausages and mulled wine at Spruce Meadows to local delicacies on Granary Road. Prices are usually higher than at regular restaurants (expect $10-15 per person for food and drink). If you're on a budget, consider eating before or after your visit, especially for shorter events. For kids, a thermos of hot cocoa can be a lifesaver during long walks in the cold. Alcohol is available at many adult events, but remember to drink responsibly, especially if you are driving.
Children and accessibility
Most fairs are very family-friendly, but the level of accessibility for children varies. Heritage Park, ZOOLIGHTS, and Granary Road have the most activities for children (Santa, crafts, animals, attractions). Market Collective has a kids' zone, but is generally geared towards adult shoppers. Strollers and prams are usually allowed, but can be inconvenient at crowded fairs (Spruce Meadows on Saturdays). For people with limited mobility, check the accessibility of the location in advance — most large venues (BMO Centre, Seven Chiefs Sportsplex, Heritage Park) have wheelchair accessibility, but rural locations (Millarville, Bragg Creek) may have limitations due to uneven terrain or historic buildings.
Photos and social media
Fairs are made for photos! Bring fully charged phones or cameras. The best photo spots are usually marked or obvious (light installations at ZOOLIGHTS, historic buildings at Heritage Park, alpacas on Granary Road). Many events have official hashtags (#ChinookBlast, #YYCChristmas, #OnceUponAChristmas), and sharing your photos can help others learn about the events. Some fairs offer professional photos with Santa for an additional fee—a good investment for family memories.
Supporting Local Businesses
Remember that most vendors at fairs are small businesses, independent artisans, and artists for whom the holiday season is critical to their annual income. When you buy from them, you're not only getting a unique gift, but also supporting Calgary's local economy and creative community. Don't be afraid to talk to vendors about their products — many love to share stories about how they create their goods, and it adds meaning to your purchase.
Conclusion: Calgary's holiday spirit awaits you
Calgary's holiday markets and fairs offer something special for everyone — from glamorous international bazaars to cozy community gatherings, from historical events to modern creative hubs, from indigenous cultural celebrations to unique rural experiences with alpacas. Whether you're looking for the perfect unique gift or just want to enjoy the festive atmosphere with family and friends, the city and its surroundings offer plenty of opportunities throughout November, December, and even into January.
For Ukrainians building a new life in Calgary, these events can become new traditions that help them feel a sense of belonging to the community and celebrate the season in Canadian style, while preserving the values of family warmth, creativity, and support for local communities. Many fairs are reminiscent of European Christmas markets, which may evoke nostalgia for home, but at the same time, they have a unique Canadian and Albertan character with an emphasis on Western heritage, Indigenous traditions, and mountain nature.
When planning your visits, keep practical considerations in mind—buy tickets in advance, dress warmly, be prepared for Alberta winter weather, but don't let the cold stop you from enjoying the magic of the season. Every fair, every light display, every encounter with Santa, and every cup of hot chocolate creates memories that will last for years to come. Calgary truly comes alive in winter, and holiday markets are at the heart of this winter revival, inviting all residents — new and old — to celebrate the darkest time of the year in the brightest way possible. So grab your gloves, gather your family, and set out to explore the wonderful world of Calgary's Christmas markets!