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- Last Chance for Christmas Magic (Plus: The Downtown Pizza Legend)
Last Chance for Christmas Magic (Plus: The Downtown Pizza Legend)
Here's what's going on this week in Calgary, Alberta.
📰 In this edition of From Calgary
High-Tech Help: New plan to help the community keep our roads safe.
The Tube Park is Calling: Making the most of the mild weather.
Holiday Arts Surge: The biggest performances running all week long.
New Restaurant Alert: A fresh spot for cozy winter dining.
Flames vs. Kraken: Game night details for Thursday.
And more!
Top 3 Stories
🚗 Community Safety Goes High-Tech: New Driver Reporting System Planned
Calgary Police are exploring a new system that would make it easier for Calgarians to help keep our roads safe by submitting dashcam or phone video footage of dangerous driving. Inspired by a successful model in the U.K., this new program aims to create a stronger partnership between citizens and law enforcement. As we head into the busiest travel days of the year, this initiative is a fantastic example of using modern technology to empower our community and ensure everyone gets home safely for the holidays.

🛷 WinSport Tube Park Opens Doors During Chinook Week
Forget the deep freeze—a classic December Chinook is here! With daytime highs stretching into the mild range, it’s the perfect time to get outside. One of the best ways to enjoy this mild swing is by heading to WinSport's Servus Tube Park. The snow is ready, the slopes are open, and the lift whisks you right back up the hill. Whether you’re racing friends or enjoying a casual slide, it’s an ideal afternoon activity to take advantage of these unseasonably warm December days.
🎄 Calgary’s Holiday Arts Scene Hits Its Peak
This week is the absolute pinnacle for holiday entertainment in Calgary, with two of the city's most beloved productions running simultaneously. The Alberta Ballet’s The Nutcracker continues its beautiful run at the Jubilee, and Theatre Calgary’s A Christmas Carol returns to warm hearts at the Max Bell Theatre. Whether you're a fan of elegant dancing or the classic story of redemption, these are two essential, world-class holiday experiences available right here in our city this week.
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🏔️ TAKE A TRIP
The Christmas Village in the Rockies
Why not maximize the mild weather and head to Banff? A Mountaintop Christmas at the Banff Gondola is in full swing, offering a beautiful experience atop Sulphur Mountain. Your ticket includes all activities, and kids go free before noon! While you’re in town, stroll the free Banff Christmas Lighting Trail: In Search of Christmas Spirit to see stunning light displays throughout the downtown core. It’s a short, gorgeous drive west for an unforgettable mountain holiday memory.
Unique accommodations in Bragg Creek:
Cowboy B&B / Tiny Cabin / Dorm / Rundle View
🍽 Feature Restaurant: Michael's Pizza Restaurant & Delivery
Location: 139 10 Ave SW, Downtown
Vibe: Legendary, Family-Owned & Cozy
Some places are just Calgary institutions, and Michael’s Pizza is one of them. This chill, family-owned eatery has been a downtown staple since 1981, specializing in amazing deep-dish pizza and hearty, locally sourced mains. With a fantastic 4.6-star rating, it’s a go-to for quality and consistency.
From Calgary subscriber Carl reminded me of this legendary spot downtown. I used to go here semi-regularly a long time ago, and I STILL remember how good the lasagna is. Thank you Carl!
Pro Tip: Michael's is open until 9:00 PM. They are famous for their rare rooftop patio… a must-try when the weather is cooperating, and a great feature to know about for the spring!
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REPORT
🌤️ 7-Day Weather Forecast
MON | TUE | WED | THU | FRI | SAT | SUN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
-1° / 11° | -5° / 5° | -14° / 0° | -14° / -1° | -18° / -2° | -19° / -11° | -19° / -14° |
💨 | ⛅️ | ❄️ | ☁️ | ☀️ | ⛅️ | ⛅️ |
🌤️ Pro Tip: Enjoy the Chinook today and tomorrow! With temperatures dipping later in the week, Monday and Tuesday are perfect days for that last-minute patio lunch or a long walk along the Bow River path before the true winter chill sets in.
SKY: Jupiter and the Last of the Geminids. While the Geminid meteor shower peaked over the weekend, we are still passing through the debris trail of its parent asteroid, 3200 Phaethon, until the 21st. The moon is a thin Waning Crescent this week and will be only 15% illuminated tonight, meaning the skies are mostly dark and favourable for viewing.
For an easy and spectacular view, look up for Jupiter! The king of planets is shining incredibly bright and is perfectly visible throughout the night. It will reach its highest point in the sky around 2:39 AM and will be visible until it sets just after 10:00 AM. Grab a pair of binoculars for a chance to spot its four largest moons!
CALGARY FLAMES
The Flames capped off their recent "Dads Trip" by securing a thrilling 2-1 overtime win against the Los Angeles Kings on Saturday, giving them a solid 3-1 record over the last seven days. Morgan Frost, a recent acquisition, has made an immediate impact, scoring the overtime winner against the Kings and injecting new energy into the offense. Goaltender Dustin Wolf has been a major stabilizing force, winning his last four starts to solidify his role as the team's backbone. With a home-heavy schedule now underway, the team is focused on building consistency and climbing the Pacific Division standings.

View From Your Seats!
Upcoming Calgary Flames Games - Call / text 403-975-5515
Dec 18 vs Seattle Kraken at 7:00 PM - SOLD OUT
Dec 20 vs Las Vegas Golden Knights at 8:00 PM - SOLD OUT
Let me know how many you need, and I can source them for you!
Dec 27 vs Edmonton Oilers at 7:00 PM - Battle of Alberta
Sec 206, Row 18 (2 or 4 tickets) – SOLD
Sec 206, Row 19 (2 or 4 tickets) – SOLD
Sec 219, Row 20 (2 or 4 tickets) – Text for price
Dec 29 vs Boston Bruins at 7:00 PM - SOLD OUT
Dec 31 vs Philadelphia Flyers at 7:30 PM - SOLD OUT
Let me know how many you need, and I can source them for you!
Jan 3 vs Nashville Predators at 5:00 PM - Early Game
Sec 206, Row 18 (2 or 4 tickets) – SOLD
Sec 206, Row 19 (2 or 4 tickets) – $176/pair
Jan 5 vs Seattle Kraken at 7:30 PM
Sec 206, Row 18 (2 or 4 tickets) – SOLD
Sec 206, Row 19 (2 or 4 tickets) – $99/pair
Jan 17 vs New York Islanders at 1:00 PM - Early Game
Sec 206, Row 18 (2 or 4 tickets) – SOLD
Sec 206, Row 19 (2 or 4 tickets) – $154/pair
Jan 19 vs New Jersey Devils at 7:00 PM
Sec 206, Row 18 (2 tickets) – $106/pair
Sec 206, Row 18 (2 tickets) – SOLD
Sec 206, Row 19 (2 or 4 tickets) – $106/pair
Please call / text 403-975-5515
[BUSINESS OWNERS: Want to advertise to smart Calgary locals? Reply to [email protected] and let me know!]
HAPPENINGS
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Unlock your potential at a FREE Men’s Workout on Tuesday and/or Thursday from 5:30-6:15 AM at 2019 Chicoutimi Drive NW (just off 19th Street in West Confederation Park - MAP).
MONDAY, Dec 15
ZOOLIGHTS @ Calgary Zoo (5:00 PM - 9:00 PM). A classic night of twinkling lights, ice skating, and festive cheer.
The Nutcracker by Alberta Ballet @ Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium (7:00 PM). The magnificent holiday production continues its run.
Stompasaurus Christmas Party @ Willow Ridge Community (7:30 PM - 12:00 AM). Get your dance on with a fun night of Christmas song-swap dances, Country Swing, and line dancing.
TUESDAY, Dec 16
F3 FREE Men’s Workout @ 5:30 AM. 2019 Chicoutimi Drive. (Details about F3 Calgary Men’s Workouts)
Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical @ StoryBook Theatre (7:00 PM). A heartwarming musical blending nostalgia with a modern perspective.
Calgary Wranglers vs. Abbotsford Canucks @ Scotiabank Saddledome (7:00 PM). Support the future Flames stars in AHL action.
A Kinda Dukish Evening @ Foothills United Church (7:00 PM). Dive into the iconic sound of Duke Ellington performed by the Calgary Jazz Academy Big Band.
WEDNESDAY, Dec 17
A Christmas Carol @ Max Bell Theatre (Various Times). Theatre Calgary’s beloved holiday tradition continues to spread cheer.
Calgary Hitmen vs. Swift Current Broncos @ Scotiabank Saddledome (7:00 PM). Catch some exciting WHL junior hockey.
Dinner and a Classic Christmas Movie @ Heritage Park's Gasoline Alley Museum. Enjoy a three-course meal followed by a viewing of The Sound of Music.
THURSDAY, Dec 18
F3 FREE Men’s Workout @ 5:30 AM. 2019 Chicoutimi Drive. (Details about F3 Calgary Men’s Workouts)
Christmas with Johnny Reid @ Grey Eagle Event Centre (8:00 PM). The Canadian pop-country star brings his festive tour to Calgary.
Calgary Flames vs. Seattle Kraken @ Scotiabank Saddledome (7:00 PM). Head to the Dome and cheer on the C of Red! Text 403-975-5515 for tickets.
The Elf Bar Pop-Up @ Limericks Traditional Public House (Open Nightly). Sip on festive cocktails in an over-the-top, holiday-themed room.
FRIDAY, Dec 19
Enchanted Festival @ Spruce Meadows (Evening). Experience the final two weekends of the walk-through light display, complete with movies and fire pits.
Calgary Hitmen vs. Brandon Wheat Kings @ Scotiabank Saddledome (1:00 PM). Catch an afternoon game before the weekend starts!
Chamber Music for a Winter Night @ Southern Alberta Pioneers Memorial Building (7:30 PM). A beautiful evening of classical music presented by the Mountain View Festival.
SATURDAY, Dec 20
F3 FREE Men’s Workout @ 6:30 AM. 2019 Chicoutimi Drive. (Details about F3 Calgary Men’s Workouts)
Once Upon A Christmas @ Heritage Park (10:00 AM - 4:00 PM). Enjoy wagon rides, caroling, Santa visits, and the new Heritage Holiday Train. This is the last weekend for the event before Christmas.
Christmas Time Is Here! Concert @ Bethany Chapel (2:00 PM). Enjoy a festive a cappella concert from Acappella Road and Rhythm of the Rockies choruses, with proceeds benefiting the Calgary Food Bank.
Calgary Flames vs. Vegas Golden Knights @ Scotiabank Saddledome (8:00 PM). A late-night NHL tilt against a division rival. Text 403-975-5515 for tickets.
SUNDAY, Dec 21
F3 FREE Men’s Workout @ 6:30 AM. 2019 Chicoutimi Drive. (Details about F3 Calgary Men’s Workouts)
Winter Solstice – The shortest day of the year!
Lions Festival of Lights @ Confederation Park Golf Course. Enjoy the massive, free drive-by or walk-through light display nightly.
Once Upon A Christmas @ Heritage Park (10:00 AM - 4:00 PM). Final day of the weekend schedule for this beloved holiday event.
Calgary Wranglers vs. San Diego Gulls – Winter Wranglerfest @ Scotiabank Saddledome (2:00 PM). The AHL team hosts a special holiday-themed game.
QUADRANTS
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THANK YOU!
Thank you for reading From Calgary today. If you enjoyed this edition, found something useful, or learned something new, please share it with someone who lives in Calgary.
Chat soon,
Brent
Publisher - From Calgary

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