See a Holiday Blockbuster
Swap gingerbread and Christmas specials on TV for buttered popcorn and a big screen. Since 1947, when Road to Rio starring Bob Hope and Bing Crosby hit theatres on Christmas Day, the holiday typically sees at least one big Hollywood release. This year, Babylon, a dazzling old-Hollywood epic with Brad Pitt, Margot Robbie, Tobey Maguire and Jean Smart, has secured the spot. Also out in December is Sarah Polley’s Women Talking (Dec. 16); the long-awaited Avatar sequel, Avatar: The Way of Water (Dec. 16); and Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (Dec. 21).
Hit the Slopes
Ski bunnies, rejoice! Resorts are usually open Christmas Day, meaning you can shred without the crowds. All SkiBig3 mountains (Mt. Norquay, Banff Sunshine Village and Lake Louise Ski Resort) will have lifts running, with some holiday surprises planned throughout the day. At Banff Sunshine Village, skiers and riders who dress up like a Christmas character (such as Santa, Mrs. Claus, Rudolph or the Grinch) can purchase a lift ticket for $75, with money from the tickets sold going to The Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation.
banffnorquay.com; skibanff.com; skilouise.com
Go Out to Eat
If the 25th is just another day, Chinese or Indian food are classic dining-out or takeout choices. Many Asian and South Asian restaurants are open, including John Wong’s Chinese Restaurant in Haysboro and Tamarind East Indian Restaurant in Panorama Hills. If you’re celebrating, but want someone else to cook, make a reservation at the Fairmont Palliser for lunch in the Crystal Ballroom or at Hotel Arts’ Yellow Door Bistro for a festive buffet brunch or dinner.
johnwongs-restaurant.com; tamarindcalgary.ca; fairmont.com/palliser-calgary; yellowdoorbistro.ca
[Note: This story has been updated with more information around Banff Sunshine Village’s Santa Skis for $75 promotion on Christmas Day.]