Step into a winter wonderland and experience the enchanting magic of Christmas at Heritage Park. Once Upon a Christmas is one of Calgary’s favourite holiday events, offering wholesome, family-friendly fun with festive activities that capture the classic Christmas spirit.
From cozy wagon rides to heartwarming carolers and visits with Santa, the park is transformed into a holiday dreamland filled with festive cheer. Whether you’re browsing the Christmas market or warming up by the firepits, Once Upon a Christmas has something for everyone to enjoy. Your ultimate destination for holiday celebrations and family fun awaits at Heritage Park on weekends, from December 7 to 22, 2024, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
General tickets cost $19.95 + GST, children are $14.95 + GST and members enjoy free admission to Once Upon a Christmas.
Here’s what you can expect.
Farm animals
Heritage Park’s friendly farm animals are back for Once Upon A Christmas and can’t wait to meet you. Perfect for a family photo, these playful critters will warm your heart and help you create the perfect holiday memories.
Location: Ranch Yard
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Horse-drawn wagon rides
Hop on a traditional horse-drawn wagon for a magical ride through the Village. Feel the crisp winter air and cozy up with your loved ones as you take in the charming, snow-covered scenery.
Location: Departs from the Heritage Park entrance
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Christmas carolers
Stroll through the park while roving carolers fill the air with classic holiday tunes. Their cheerful voices will transport you to a simpler time, capturing the very essence of the Christmas spirit.
Location: Throughout the Village
Time: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Festive photos
Strike a pose with giant cutouts spelling ‘Hope,’ ‘Joy’ and ‘Merry Christmas’ for the ultimate holiday photo. These larger-than-life props make for an Instagram-worthy family shot!
Location: Famous Five Centre and The Promenade
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Firepits throughout the Village
Warm up by one of the many cozy firepits, sipping hot cocoa and basking in the festive atmosphere. Perfect for relaxing after a fun-filled day of holiday activities!
Locations: Various spots throughout the Village
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Visit Santa at the North Pole
Meet Santa and his merry elves at the North Pole, where they’ll check if you’re on the Naughty or Nice list and listen to your holiday wishes. Don’t forget to capture the moment with professional photos!
Location: Shepard Station
Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Christmas market
Browse unique, locally made treasures for everyone on your list at the festive Christmas market. This is the place to find one-of-a-kind gifts, from handcrafted ornaments to artisanal treats.
Location: Celebration Tent
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Model train display
Train enthusiasts, young and old, will love this new model train display. Watch as the tiny trains chug through snowy landscapes and festive villages in miniature form.
Location: Innovation Crossing
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Secret of Santa’s Workshop
Watch a fantastical musical melodrama unfold as two Arctic explorers compete to discover the secret of Santa’s Workshop.
Location: Canmore Opera House
Times: 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m. (45-minute performances)
Holiday storytime
Gather around for a cozy holiday storytime, where young ones can enjoy timeless Christmas tales in a warm and inviting setting.
Location: Famous 5 Basement
Time: 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Kids only market
While parents relax in the lounge, kids can explore and shop for their own gifts with the help of our friendly elves. It’s a shopping adventure just for them!
Visitors can choose to add activities for an extra cost, like starting the day with a breakfast buffet or booking a private carriage ride through the Village.
Whether you’re riding a horse-drawn wagon, shopping for unique gifts or simply soaking in the holiday cheer, this event promises to create cherished memories for families of all sizes.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit heritagepark.ca/series/once-upon-a-christmas.
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