Christmas Shopping Guide: Exploring Calgary’s Holiday Shopping Festival
1. The Magic of Calgary during Christmas
Calgary, with its stunning winter landscapes and festive energy, is one of the most magical cities to visit during the holiday season. As the city transforms into a winter wonderland, the air gets filled with the crisp scent of snow, and twinkling lights illuminate the streets, making it an ideal destination for Christmas shopping. From upscale malls to quirky independent boutiques, Calgary offers a holiday shopping experience that is as diverse as the city itself.
When the temperature drops and snow blankets the streets, it’s easy to think about cozying up indoors. But for those with a passion for holiday shopping, Calgary offers a vibrant, festive atmosphere. The city’s annual Holiday Shopping Festival, which takes place every December, brings together both big names in retail and unique local artisans. Whether you’re looking for luxury goods, one-of-a-kind handmade gifts, or simply enjoying the festive ambiance, Calgary is a shopping haven.
2. The Heart of Calgary: Downtown and Stephen Avenue Walk
If you’re looking to experience the holiday spirit at its best, start your shopping adventure on Stephen Avenue, Calgary’s historic pedestrian street. During the Christmas season, the avenue is a sight to behold, lined with festively decorated shops and sparkling holiday displays. The iconic ‘Glenbow Museum’ stands as a backdrop while the street comes alive with holiday cheer. It’s an ideal place to wander around, soak in the sights, and pick up something special for loved ones.
In addition to well-known department stores like Holt Renfrew, visitors can explore several independent boutiques offering everything from hand-crafted jewellery to artisanal home decor. Local shops such as The Tea Shop offer an extensive collection of teas, perfect for anyone who enjoys a warm cup during the colder months. On the same street, Indigo has an extensive selection of books and cozy winter accessories, making it the ideal place to find a gift for someone who loves reading or enjoys a night by the fire.
Another key spot to check out is the Calgary Tower, where not only can you enjoy a panoramic view of the entire city but also experience the festive decorations that adorn the area.
3. CF Chinook Centre: The Ultimate Christmas Shopping Destination
When you talk about shopping malls in Calgary, CF Chinook Centre is an essential mention. This sprawling shopping complex is the go-to destination for anyone seeking variety during the holiday season. With over 250 stores, ranging from high-end boutiques to popular retail chains, CF Chinook Centre caters to every shopping need.
During Christmas, the mall is transformed into a festive paradise. It’s common to see incredible displays of Christmas trees, twinkling lights, and seasonal decorations as you make your way through the sprawling halls. The Santa Claus Experience is a long-standing tradition at Chinook, and families flock here to have their pictures taken with Santa in a beautifully designed winter wonderland setting. This makes it not just a shopping destination, but also a place where you can embrace the spirit of Christmas as a family.
For fashion lovers, Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue are some of the mall’s luxurious anchors. Offering everything from high-end clothing to accessories, both stores go all out with their festive window displays and seasonal sales. But it’s not all about luxury here. Stores like H&M, Zara, and Aritzia provide trendy yet affordable fashion, and there are numerous shoe stores to get that perfect pair for the holiday season.
Beyond fashion, CF Chinook Centre also boasts a wide selection of home goods and gourmet treats. William Sonoma offers seasonal kitchenware and delectable holiday-themed culinary delights, making it a great spot for gifts for those who enjoy cooking. Meanwhile, Lindt Chocolate has seasonal specials that are sure to delight the sweet-tooth in your life.
4. 17th Avenue: Calgary’s Trendy Street for Unique Finds
If you’re looking to get away from the typical shopping mall experience and explore something more eclectic, 17th Avenue is your place. Known as Calgary’s “Red Mile,” this lively street is lined with unique boutiques, art galleries, and some of the trendiest bars and restaurants in the city.
From art to apparel, 17th Avenue has it all. The Cat’s Eye is an independent bookstore that specializes in rare, vintage, and second-hand books, making it an ideal stop for those searching for a thoughtful gift for a literature lover. For unique fashion finds, stop by The Happy Camper for retro-inspired pieces or Found Boutique for a curated selection of home decor and personal accessories.
If you’re looking for something truly unique, be sure to visit Calgary’s Farmers Market in the southwestern part of the city. The market is a haven for local artisans selling handmade goods, organic produce, and locally sourced gifts. It’s perfect for those who prefer to buy locally made, eco-friendly gifts while supporting small businesses.
5. The Calgary Christmas Market: A European-Inspired Tradition
For a truly magical experience, the Calgary Christmas Market is a must-visit. Set up in the heart of downtown, this market is inspired by the famous European Christmas markets and is known for its festive atmosphere, lively entertainment, and selection of traditional goods.
As you stroll through the market, the smell of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine fills the air. You can browse wooden stalls filled with handcrafted ornaments, artisanal candles, scarves, gloves, and holiday treats. The market is also home to several food trucks offering everything from traditional German sausages to freshly baked gingerbread cookies. For those looking to find unique holiday gifts, this is the perfect place to pick up something that’s truly one-of-a-kind.
The market also hosts a variety of entertainment, including live music performances, dance shows, and even visits from Santa himself. It’s a great way to spend a winter afternoon, enjoying the festive atmosphere while crossing a few names off your holiday shopping list.
6. Local Artisan Shops: Gifts with a Personal Touch
Beyond the malls and markets, Calgary is home to many local artisans who create handmade gifts that have a personal touch. For those who prefer to buy something truly unique, Calgary’s independent shops offer a wide range of options.
For example, The Calgary Artisan Market is a one-stop shop for handcrafted goods made by local artists. From pottery to jewellery to wooden toys, you’ll find items that are perfect for the person who appreciates craftsmanship and originality. In addition, there are plenty of local artists who offer art prints, paintings, and home decor pieces that make great gifts for anyone who enjoys supporting the arts.
7. The Perfect Christmas Gift Wrapping Experience
Shopping is only half the fun—wrapping up your gifts in style is the other! Many of Calgary’s shopping centers, like CF Chinook Centre and The Core Shopping Centre, offer professional gift wrapping services. For a small fee, you can have your gifts beautifully wrapped in festive paper, topped with ribbons, and ready to go under the tree.
Even better, certain boutiques like Paper Chase on Stephen Avenue offer unique wrapping papers and greeting cards that can elevate any gift. Whether you’re looking for a classic, sophisticated design or something whimsical and fun, these shops provide a wide range of paper and embellishments to make your gift-giving even more special.
8. Exploring Calgary’s Dining Scene While Shopping
No shopping spree is complete without a well-deserved break to recharge. Thankfully, Calgary offers a rich culinary scene, with plenty of restaurants, cafés, and eateries around every corner. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or indulging in a sit-down meal, there are plenty of options to suit every palate.
Around Stephen Avenue, you’ll find a variety of dining options, from elegant bistros to cozy cafés perfect for warming up with a hot chocolate. The Keg offers hearty meals, while Café Medina serves delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a casual yet chic environment. For a taste of something more refined, Brasserie Kensington in the Kensington district provides a classic French dining experience.
In CF Chinook Centre, The Cheesecake Factory is always a favorite, offering a wide range of hearty dishes and, of course, their famous cheesecake. And for those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss Cocolico for some of the finest chocolate treats in the city.
9. Finding Parking and Getting Around Calgary During the Holidays
Getting around Calgary during the busy holiday season can be a challenge, especially with snow and large crowds. Thankfully, the city has a well-connected public transit system, and many shopping centers, including CF Chinook Centre and The Core, offer ample parking spaces. However, it’s always a good idea to plan ahead, as parking can get crowded closer to Christmas.
During the winter months, taking public transport is often the most convenient option. Calgary’s C-Train light rail system runs frequently, and it connects major shopping hubs with ease. It’s also a sustainable option that allows you to avoid the hassle of finding parking, leaving you with more time to shop and explore.
10. Calgary’s Holiday Spirit
Christmas in Calgary is more than just shopping—it’s about experiencing the warmth and spirit of the holiday season. With its welcoming vibe, festive decorations, and variety of shopping experiences, Calgary truly knows how to put on a show during Christmas time. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying longer, the city’s holiday shopping festival is something you won’t want to miss.
