Where to See Christmas Lights in Calgary 2026
Light up the holiday season with Christmas lights in and around Calgary.
ZOOLIGHTS (Credit: Cailin Charles)
Tour seasonal light displays from the comfort of your car or explore the attractions and neighbourhoods that are lighting up this holiday season. Bundle up and embrace the holiday spirit with Christmas lights in and around Calgary.
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Holiday lights
Lighten Up Calgary map
Take a drive through the neighbourhood to see some of the best Christmas light displays in and around Calgary. Lighten Up Calgary creates a helpful map of Calgary neighbourhoods with must-see displays across the city that are free and family friendly.
ZOOLIGHTS
Join one of Calgary’s most cherished traditions at the Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo, where one million lights and close to 250 light figures illuminate the night. Guests can warm up at fire pits, explore new themes, and enjoy interactive zones. ZOOLIGHTS, presented by Olympia Trust Company, runs nightly from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., offering enchanting experiences for visitors of all ages.
Where: Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo
When: November 13, 2026 - January 3, 2027
Light Up Okotoks
Celebrate the start of the holiday season as downtown Okotoks transforms into a winter wonderland. This community celebration includes wagon rides, fire pits, photos with Santa, a dazzling tree lighting, fireworks, and holiday shopping at local businesses.
Where: Downtown Okotoks
When: November 20, 2026
ZOOLIGHTS (Credit: Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo)
ZOOLIGHTS (Credit: Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo)
In Search of Christmas Spirit (Banff)
Follow the enchanted trail of illuminated sculptures and lights that tells the story of the wildlife in Banff National Park when you go In Search of Christmas Spirit. Bundle up and walk through this live Christmas story. Tickets are free but must be reserved in advance. Check the link to reserve your tickets.
Where: Cascade of Time Garden - Cave Avenue, Banff
When: Select dates, November 12, 2026 - January 3, 2027
Lions Festival of Lights
The Lions Festival of Lights returns for its 40th annual edition, lighting up Confederation Park Golf Course with displays built by volunteers. Opening night is Saturday, November 21, at 5 p.m. After that, the lights are on nightly from 5:30 p.m. to midnight. Admission is free.
Where: 14th Street NW
When: November 21, 2026 - January 8, 2027
Rotary Festival of Trees (Canmore)
Make a day trip of it and enjoy the Rotary Festival of Trees in Canmore, with tree viewing, a magical Candy Cane Lane, and a gingerbread house contest, along with special events for everyone in the family.
Where: The Malcolm Hotel, Canmore
When: November 27 - December 31, 2026
Cochrane Light Up
Cochrane Light Up brings residents and visitors together for bright lights and Christmas cheer. Join the community for a special holiday tradition in Cochrane.
Where: Historic Main Street, Cochrane
When: November 28, 2026
Airdrie Festival of Lights
The Airdrie Festival of Lights is Western Canada’s largest, free, outdoor walk-through Christmas light display that has been a family-friendly tradition since 1996. The lights glow nightly from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., and donations are welcome at the gate.
Where: Nose Creek Park, Airdrie
When: December 1-31, 2026
Enchanted Festival at Spruce Meadows
Marvel at glistening horses, light tunnels, and iconic Spruce Meadows décor at the Enchanted Festival. Plus, step inside the 36,000 sq. ft. Equi-Plex to warm up with snacks, films, and festive displays.
Where: Spruce Meadows
When: December 12-23, 2026
Spruce Meadows (Credit: Roth and Ramberg)
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