Hop On the Market Circuit
The popular indoor/outdoor Millarville Christmas Market, held just outside of the city at the Millarville Racetrack, runs over the first two weekends of this month. You’ll find locally made goods, as well as food trucks, real reindeer, photo ops with Santa and a kids-only shop. For more edge-of-the-city fun, the Spruce Meadows International Christmas Market follows the Millarville market, taking place the last two weekends of November and the first weekend of December.
306097 192 St. W., millarvilleracetrack.com; 18011 Spruce Meadows Way S.W., sprucemeadows.com
Wander Among Festive Lights
The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo’s annual outdoor light display is the perfect way to enjoy some holiday pizzazz. This year’s Zoolights, presented by Olympia Trust Company, kicks off on Nov. 18 and runs to Jan. 8. While strolling through the light displays is the epitome of wholesome family fun, there are also three ticketed events for ages 18 and older throughout the season for those looking for a more sophisticated Zoolights experience, complete with cocktails.
210 St. George’s Dr. N.E., 403-232-9300, calgaryzoo.com
Indulge in Christmas Goodies
It’s never too early to start on the treats. Many local bakeries unveil holiday menus and offerings in November, such as the gingerbread house decorating kits from Pretty Sweet Bakeshop and a festive lineup from Pie Junkie (turkey dinner pie, anyone?). Be sure to pop into the Ship & Anchor Pub for a glass of its famous Shipnog or grab a bottle to go: $5 from each glass and $10 from each bottle is donated to local
charities.
536 42 Ave. S.E., prettysweetco.com; 4 Calgary locations, piejunkie.ca; 534 17 Ave. S.W., shipandanchor.com