Calgary’s big malls stretch their hours in December and nearly all run a Santa photo set. Here’s how to shop them without losing your mind.
The Big Malls
- CF Chinook Centre (SW, Macleod Trail): the biggest, with the most stores and the longest lines; Chinook CTrain station is a short walk.
- CF Market Mall (NW): handy for the northwest and university area.
- Southcentre Mall (SE): a big south-side option with easy parking.
- CrossIron Mills (north of the city in Rocky View County): outlet-style shopping and the biggest parking lots.
Holiday Hours
Malls typically extend hours from early December and stay open later in the final week before Christmas, close early on Christmas Eve and stay closed on Christmas Day. Check your mall’s website for 2026 hours. See what’s open on Christmas Day.
Santa Photos
Santa sets usually open in mid-November; many malls let you book a photo time online to skip the line, and some offer pet and sensory-friendly sessions. See where to see Santa.
Tips
- Go on a weekday morning.
- Park far from the main entrance and walk; you’ll save time leaving.
- Take transit to Chinook on December weekends.
Related: Boxing Day in Calgary, local gifts.
Part of: Calgary Christmas Guide 2026 › Christmas Markets in Calgary 2026
