Family-Friendly Events in Calgary This November

November is the perfect time to embrace the beginning of the holiday season, and Calgary has plenty of family-friendly events to get you and your little ones in the festive spirit. From Christmas markets to outdoor light displays, there’s something for families of all ages to enjoy. 

1. Calgary Christmas Market

When: November 16 – December 23

Where: Calgary Farmers’ Market

The Calgary Christmas Market is the perfect spot to start your holiday shopping and let your kids experience the festive cheer. With local vendors, seasonal treats, and live holiday performances, there's something for everyone. Kids will love the holiday-themed activities, and you’ll enjoy checking off your Christmas gift list while supporting local businesses.

2. Spruce Meadows International Christmas Market

When: November 15-17, November 22-24

Where: Spruce Meadows

One of Calgary’s most beloved holiday traditions, the Spruce Meadows Christmas Market is a family favourite. With more than 300 vendors, it’s the perfect place to find unique gifts and enjoy a festive day out. Kids will love the live entertainment, sweet treats, and winter wonderland vibe, while parents can soak up the holiday spirit with some mulled wine or hot chocolate.

3. Zoolights at the Calgary Zoo

When: November 17 – January 7, 2024

Where: Calgary Zoo

Zoolights is a must-do event for families in Calgary! As the zoo transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland, you and your kids can wander through millions of twinkling lights and interactive displays. There are themed zones, fire pits for roasting marshmallows, and opportunities for kids to meet Santa Claus himself. Don’t forget to bundle up, as this outdoor event runs in the chilly evenings!

4. Once Upon a Christmas at Heritage Park

When: November 25-26 (Weekends continue through December)

Where: Heritage Park

Take a magical trip back in time at Heritage Park’s Once Upon a Christmas. This annual event offers horse-drawn wagon rides, holiday crafts, and an old-fashioned Christmas village filled with live entertainment. Kids will enjoy visiting with Santa, and there’s plenty of festive fun for parents too, from warm treats to local vendors selling unique holiday items.

5. Christmas Market at Granary Road

When: November 30 - December 15

Where: Granary Road

Take a short drive to Granary Road for a weekend of holiday fun at their Winter Craft Fair. This family-friendly event features local artisans and vendors offering one-of-a-kind holiday gifts, festive activities for kids, and delicious seasonal food. Kids will love visiting the petting zoo and taking part in Christmas-themed crafts while parents shop for unique holiday finds.

6. Holiday Photos with Santa

When: Starting November 13 (Various dates in November and December)

Where: Chinook Centre, Market Mall, CrossIron Mills, Southcentre Mall

It’s time for the annual family tradition—photos with Santa! This November, head to one of Calgary’s major shopping malls for a holiday photo session with the jolly old man himself. Kids will love the chance to share their wish lists with Santa, and you’ll have the perfect keepsake photo to remember the moment. Book early, as these slots fill up fast!

7. Banff Santa Claus Celebration of Lights

When: November 16&17 Where: Banff Avenue, Caribou Street & Bear Street A festive weekend of holiday activities and entertainment to kick off the quintessential Christmas season in downtown Banff. Expect a full-day of cheerful celebrations on Saturday. Enjoy talented local and Albertan artists performing on the Cascade Main Stage, whimsical performers found through the event site, the Kids Craft Cabin with crafts galore, and more magical activities for you and the whole family to enjoy.

8. Banff Christmas Market

When: November 14-17, November 22-24, November 29-December 1

Where: Banff Train Station

The annual Banff Christmas Market captures all the tradition, heritage, and romance of European Holiday Markets with a Canadian Rocky Mountain twist. Look for a special gift for someone or find a keepsake for yourself while you shop booths of unique, artisanal gifts. Featuring goods inspired by Rocky Mountain culture, you’re bound to find one-of-a-kind treasures. Festive entertainment and culinary delights will put you in the mood for the holidays and jumpstart your Christmas season.

From dazzling lights to magical markets, November in Calgary is filled with events that will bring joy to the whole family. So bundle up, mark your calendars, and get ready to make some cherished holiday memories together. What events are you excited to check out with your family this month? Let me know in the comments!