Things to do this week in Calgary (Dec 17 – 21)
Photo via @nhlflames Instagram

What’s up, Calgary? We can all feel the Christmas spirit in this very non-Christmas weather, so let’s take that festive mood right into Monday and hit the week running. Here are some of the best things to do in Calgary this week.
The Nutcracker by Alberta Ballet
The Christmas classic is the perfect date-night for any situation. Taking mom out as an early Christmas gift? Boom, ballet. Getting cultured with the significant other? Boom, BALLET. Getting wine-drunk, dressing to-the-nines, and hitting up the town all by your lonesome? BOOM. BALLET.
Where: Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
When: December 14th – 24th, times vary
Time: 1 PM & 7 PM depending on the day
Cost: $41 – $145
Trivia Night: The Office
Think you’ve got what it takes to go head-to-head with some of the craziest Office fans in the city? Well, it certainly doesn’t hurt to try. After all, “you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take” – Wayne Gretzky…-Michael Scott.
Where: Wurst
When: Tuesday, December 18
Time: 7 PM
Cost: $15 + Fees
Grinch Tree Workshop
What’s a better way to make to get into the holiday cheer than by diving head first into some arts and crafts? Enjoy your chance to make some delightful Grinch Trees that will be perfect for any gift or home decor!
Where: Pinnovate DIY Studio, 137 Mahogany Plaza SE
When: Tuesday, December 18
Time: 7 PM
Cost: $70
Jazz Cartier
The 25-year old Toronto rapper has been making waves for a few years, and with a Polaris nomination plus a Juno Award win, it’s obvious his work is paying off. Take in a night of Canadian hip-hop at one of the best music venues in town.
Where: 731 10 Avenue SW
When: Thursday, December 20
Time: 9 PM
Cost: $15 + Fees
Calgary Flames vs Tampa Bay Lightning
The Lightning have been lighting up the Eastern Conference but our boys in red will definitely be ready for the challenge. Both teams have been scoring plenty this year so you can expect a high-scoring tilt.
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome
When: Thursday, December 20
Time: 7 PM
Cost: $41
Polar Express – Aspen Crossing
Did you miss your chance to ride the Train of Terror? Well, next October is a ways away… but we are smack dab in the middle of December, and you know what that means Calgary: Aspen Crossing’s Polar Express is in action! It’s the perfect holiday ride so pony up, people!
Where: Aspen Crossing
When: Nightly Till December 24
Time: Times Vary By Day
Cost: Varies By Train Car ($64+)
Hit up 17th for the perfect winter day
Shopping, eating, drinking, strolling. Calgary’s favourite street is set up with some full-on festive lights and feels. If you’re looking for a perfect way to enjoy the weather and treat yourself, this is an obvious choice.
Where: 17th Avenue SW – Between 14th Street SW & 2nd Street SW
When: Closing times vary by store/establishment
Ice Skating at Olympic Plaza
There are plenty of delightful outdoor skating options in town, but the cream of the crop has to be the gorgeous ice surface at Olympic Plaza. Strap on the blades and slide yourself into the holiday spirit with the excitement of a child and the grace of a toddler.
Where: 228 8 Ave SE
When: Open Daily
Time: 10 AM – 9 PM
Cost: Free
Enjoy yourselves out there, Calgary!