MONDAY
Let’s begin the week with something sweet. Bring your holiday cheer to the Cookie Kitchen at Southcentre Mall, where you can decorate your own cookie in exchange for a donation to Made by Momma, supporting local families in need. The event runs through Christmas Eve.
TUESDAY
Gather your smartest (or funniest) friends for trivia night at Hose & Hound Pub, an old firehouse in Inglewood. Expect six lively rounds — including Name That Tune, a themed visual round, and general knowledge. The game starts at 7 p.m., and entry is free.
WEDNESDAY
CUFF.Docs kicks off, showcasing some of the most intriguing documentaries of the year. The festival runs all week, featuring over 15 full-length films, as well as shorts, on a wide range of subjects, with guest filmmakers in attendance. Visit calgaryundergroundfilm.org for the full program.
THURSDAY
Did you know the Ship & Anchor turns 35 this year? To mark the milestone, the pub hosts a two-night party headlined by The Planet Smashers. On Wednesday, they share the stage with Real Sickies and Class Action, and on Thursday with Julius Sumner Miller, Ghost Factory, and Jesse Lebourdais. Both nights are free — and guaranteed to be loud.
FRIDAY
If you are looking for something more… family-friendly, step inside the whimsical world of Willy Wonka at the Pumphouse Theatre. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory features an original score by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman (Hairspray), with a book by David Greig. The show starts at 7:30 p.m., and tickets are $27.
SATURDAY
Celebrate the life and legacy of Canadian composer Violet Archer. Presented by the Canadian Music Centre Prairie Region and the National Music Centre, ArcherFest gathers artists from across Canada to honour her lasting influence on the country’s classical scene. The two-day event takes place at Studio Bell. Details and tickets at studiobell.ca.
SUNDAY
Round out the week under the twinkle of ZOOLIGHTS at the Calgary Zoo. The holiday tradition continues every evening after 5 p.m., filling the grounds with dazzling displays and festive warmth — perfect for a relaxed Sunday night with family or friends.
For more events, guides, and things to do around the city, pick up our October issue of The Scene hitting stands this week, and visit us online at thescenecalgary.com.