Lions Festival of Lights 2026: Calgary’s Free Christmas Lights Turn 40

Some Calgary Christmas traditions need tickets, time slots and a parking plan. The Lions Festival of Lights needs none of that. For four decades, volunteers from Calgary’s Lions clubs have strung lights across the southeast corner of Confederation Park, and Calgarians have driven slowly along 14 Street NW with the kids pressed to the windows.

In 2026 the festival celebrates its 40th year, running November 21, 2026 to January 8, 2027, every night from 5:30 PM to midnight. It’s free, always.

Comparing light shows? Our Christmas lights in Calgary roundup lists every display, free and paid.

Lions Festival of Lights 2026: Quick Facts

Opening Night: Saturday, November 21

The lights are switched on at 5:00 PM on Saturday, November 21, with a special guest. In past years the grand opening has included carollers, hot chocolate and fireworks, plus a food bank collection, so bring a non-perishable item just in case. We’ll update this section when the 40th-anniversary program is posted.

Walk or Drive?

Both work. Most people drive slowly north on 14 Street NW, which takes a few minutes. Walking is better: park on a nearby side street and wander through the displays, where you’ll spot the details you miss from a car. Watch for pedestrians if you’re driving, and expect 14 Street to back up on December weekends.

Know Before You Go

• It’s free. No tickets and no time slots.
• Weeknights are calmer. Weekend evenings in December are the busiest.
• Parking: use residential side streets and respect driveways and signs.
• Dress warmly if you’re walking. The park is exposed to the wind.

Make a Night of It

• Bigger show: ZOOLIGHTS at the Calgary Zoo has a million lights, Santa and fire pits.
• Indoors: Holiday Wonder at the BMO Centre is the warm option.
• More free fun: see our free Christmas things to do in Calgary.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Lions Festival of Lights in 2026?

November 21, 2026 to January 8, 2027, nightly from 5:30 PM to midnight.

Is it free?

Yes. There are no tickets or time slots.

Where is it?

In Confederation Park, along 14 Street NW just north of 24 Avenue NW.

Can you drive through it?

Yes. You can drive slowly along 14 Street NW or park and walk.

When is opening night?

Saturday, November 21, 2026, at 5 PM.

How long has it been running?

2026 is the 40th annual festival.

Related: free Christmas things to do in Calgary, Christmas with kids.

Part of: Calgary Christmas Guide 2026 › Christmas Lights in Calgary 2026