Free Christmas Things to Do in Calgary 2026

Christmas in Calgary doesn’t have to cost a thing. Here are the best free things to do this season, from the city’s classic drive-by lights to a free rock concert off the back of a train.

Free Christmas Lights

• Lions Festival of Lights: 40th year in Confederation Park, November 21 to January 8, 5:30 PM to midnight. Drive or walk.
• Airdrie Festival of Lights: walk-through lights in Nose Creek Park, December 1 to 31, 6 to 9 PM. Donations welcome.
• George Lane Park, High River: lit nightly from December 4 into January.
• Neighbourhood displays: follow the Lighten Up Calgary map to the city’s most decorated homes.

Free Events

• CPKC Holiday Train: Sam Roberts Band and Owen Riegling at Anderson Station, Friday, December 11, 7 PM. Bring a food bank donation.
• Light Up Okotoks: Friday, November 20, 5:30 to 9 PM.
• High River Santa Claus Parade: Friday, December 4, 6:30 PM.
• In Search of Christmas Spirit, Banff: a free, ticketed light walk; reserve when tickets release November 2 and 30. (Parks pass required to stop in Banff.)
• Calgary Nativity: outdoor performances with live animals, December 18–20, 6:30 to 8:30 PM.

Free Christmas Markets

• Calgary Farmers’ Market Christmas Market: free entry at both locations, November 18/19 to December 23.
• Community craft fairs: many are free, including the Citadel Christmas Market (Nov 14), Handmade for Christmas (Nov 21) and the Alberta Potters’ Association sale (Nov 6–21).
• See the full Christmas markets calendar.

Free (or Nearly) Ways to See Santa

Mall Santa visits are free to see, with photos extra. Santa is also included with a ticket at ZOOLIGHTS. See where to see Santa in Calgary.

Cheap Tricks

• ZOOLIGHTS Wonder Wednesdays: 20% off from November 18 to December 16.
• Outdoor skating: City rinks and lagoons are free when the ice is in.
• Tobogganing: Calgary’s sledding hills cost nothing but a sled.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do for free at Christmas in Calgary?

See the Lions Festival of Lights, the CPKC Holiday Train concert, Light Up Okotoks, the Airdrie Festival of Lights and free community markets.

Are there free Christmas lights in Calgary?

Yes, the Lions Festival of Lights in Confederation Park is free every night until midnight.

Is the Holiday Train free?

Yes. Donations to the food bank are encouraged.

Related: Christmas lights in Calgary, Christmas with kids.

Part of: Calgary Christmas Guide 2026