CPKC Holiday Train in Calgary 2026: Date, Time & Performers

Few things say “Christmas in Canada” like a thousand-foot freight train wrapped in LED lights rolling into town with a stage in one of its boxcars. The CPKC Holiday Train has been raising food and money for local food banks since 1999, and its Calgary stop is one of the best free shows of the season.

In 2026 the train stops in Calgary on Friday, December 11, from 7:00 to 7:30 PM at Anderson CTrain Station, with Sam Roberts Band and Owen Riegling performing.

CPKC Holiday Train in Calgary 2026: Quick Facts

What Happens at the Stop

The train pulls in, the side of a boxcar opens into a stage, and the performers play a short set of about half an hour. Volunteers from the local food bank collect donations in the crowd, and every donation stays in the community where it’s given. Then the train moves on to the next town.

Know Before You Go

• Arrive early. The show is only 30 minutes, and the best spots near the stage go first.
• Bring a donation. Non-perishable food or cash for the Calgary Food Bank.
• Dress warmly. You’ll be standing outside in December after dark.
• Times can shift. Freight schedules can run late; follow CPKC’s official social channels on the day.
• No rides. The Holiday Train doesn’t carry passengers.

Getting There

Anderson Station is on the Red Line in south Calgary, so the CTrain is the easiest way in: no parking hunt, and you arrive right at the stop. The station’s park-and-ride lots fill quickly on event night.

Other Stops Near Calgary

The Holiday Train visits more than 20 Alberta communities between December 8 and 15. After Calgary, it stops in Cochrane, Morley, Canmore and Banff on its way west, with the Banff stop on December 15. Check the official schedule for exact times before you drive out.

Make a Night of It

• More free fun: see our free Christmas things to do in Calgary.
• Lights after: ZOOLIGHTS is open until 9:30 PM and is a short CTrain ride away.
• Same weekend: Alberta Ballet’s The Nutcracker opens December 11.

For the whole season, start with the Calgary Christmas Guide 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the CPKC Holiday Train in Calgary in 2026?

Friday, December 11, 2026, from 7 to 7:30 PM.

Where does it stop in Calgary?

At Anderson CTrain Station.

Who is performing?

Sam Roberts Band and Owen Riegling.

Is it free?

Yes. Donations of food or cash for the Calgary Food Bank are encouraged.

Can you ride the Holiday Train?

No. It doesn’t offer public rides.

Does it stop anywhere else near Calgary?

Yes, including Cochrane, Canmore and Banff.

Related: Santa Claus parades near Calgary, Christmas events this weekend.

Part of: Calgary Christmas Guide 2026 › Free Christmas Things to Do in Calgary