The best things to do on New Year’s Day in and around Calgary

Happy New Year, Calgary! If you’re looking for a few things to do, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve compiled the ultimate to-do list to start the first day of 2026 off on the right foot. From sound baths to sleigh rides, there’s so much going on, and only 24 hours to get it all done.

Spend the day trying something new, or take part in some of these family-friendly activities. Here are the best things to do on New Year’s Day in and around Calgary!

Celebrating 30 years in North America, Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert returns to Calgary for a dazzling anniversary season. This beloved annual tradition is an unmissable addition to every music-lover’s holiday wish list.

When: Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026
Time: 2:30 p.m.
Where: Jack Singer Concert Hall — 225 8th Ave. SE, Calgary
Tickets: $69+

With snow tubing returning to Servus Tube Park this winter, you and the fam can get ready to fly down a former Olympic ski hill.

When: Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026
Time: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 88 Canada Olympic Rd. SW, Calgary
Tickets: $25

Go dashing through the snow on a two-horse open sleigh, then warm up around the campfire.

When: Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026
Time: Noon, 1:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Where: 4025 146th Ave. SW Calgary (beside Alpine Park)
Tickets: $29

The streets of High River will transform into an enchanting Christmas vision with trimmed trees, Christmas balls hanging in shop windows and numerous specialty stores offering one-of-a-kind gifts. Lights in the park will be on each evening from 4:30 to 11 p.m. until mid-January 2026.

When: Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026
Time: 4:30 to 11 p.m.
Where: George Lane Memorial Park — 343 Macleod Trl. SW, High River, Alta.
Tickets: Free

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and the community of Legacy is brightening 2025 with over a million sparkling Christmas lights.

When: Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026
Time: Nightly
Where: Legacy Clock Tower — Legacy, Calgary, Alta.
Tickets: Free

Get ready to step into the magic of the season with a Christmas-themed Eye Spy Adventure! This indoor, family-friendly event invites guests of all ages to explore delightful displays inspired by holiday favourites.

When: Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026
Time: 4 to 9:30 p.m.
Where: Unit 4, 2010, 30th Ave. NE, Calgary
Tickets: $15 to $25

Over 25 km of glowing lights can be seen at this drive-through holiday installation in Innisfail, Alta.

When: Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026
Time: 5 to 9 p.m.
Where: 5400 42nd Ave., Innisfail, Alta.
Cost: $30/vehicle for up to eight people

When: Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026
Time: 5 to 10 p.m.
Where: 100 Mountain Ave., Banff, Alta.
Cost: $69+

Back for its 29th season, Calgary’s favourite sparkling spectacle is sure to ignite your festive spirit as the zoo transforms into a magical winter wonderland.

When: Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026
Time: 5 to 9 p.m.
Where: 210 St. George’s Drive NE, 1300 Zoo Rd. NE, Calgary, Alta.
Tickets: $22.95

Relax and unwind with an immersive sound bath experience at the charming Cooper Memorial Hall.

When: Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026
Time: 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Where: Cooper Memorial Hall — 17th Ave. SW, Calgary
Tickets: $38.75

Related Posts:
Amber Marshall will guest star in ‘Murdoch Mysteries’ episode filmed in Alberta
Visit one of Canada’s beautiful national parks for free this holiday season