Things to Do in Calgary this January

With a new year comes brand new events! It appears that 2019 in Calgary will be a year filled with extravagant, exciting, and unexpected things to do, see, taste, and enjoy! And of course, January is starting the year off right.

This month, Calgarians can expect to hear from top artists such as Dierks Bentley, enjoy snow-filled events like the Calgary Polar Dip, attend the latest artistic performances put on by Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, and peruse what local businesses have to offer at themed expos! Whatever your activity preference, there are events almost every day waiting for you. Take a look at some of the most anticipated things to do in Calgary this January and fall in love with winter once more!

Food & Drink Events in Calgary

Calgary MS Whiskey Festival

Hosted by the Kensington Wine Market and the MS Society of Canada, the Calgary MS Whiskey Festival is your chance to sample, browse, and purchase top whiskeys. The show will have over 100 different whiskeys available to taste from more than 35 vendors. You will also have the opportunity to increase your whiskey knowledge with "Master Classes" and demonstrations (classes available for purchase).

The Winter Wine Festival — January 25th

Merlot, pinot gris, cabernet sauvignon… whatever wine is your go-to, there is plenty of it to be found at The Winter Wine Festival at Kensington Wine Market this month! This engaging wine tasting event will feature over 80 different wines, to be paired with catering provided by Calgary's Peasant Cheese. Tickets are $45 each and are available online.

Kids & Family Events in Calgary

Zoolights — January 1-5th

Just because the Christmas season is over does not mean that you can't still enjoy a hot cocoa while soaking in the sight of millions of Christmas lights! The Calgary Zoo will continue their lighting display extravaganza of Zoolights from January 1st to 5th from 6-9pm. Tickets are available online or at the zoo entrance.

Southwood Winter Festival — January 5th

From 2-5pm, families with young children are invited to come to the Southwood Community Association for the Southwood Winter Festival. This winter-themed event is the perfect way to enjoy the snow! The day will include skating, sleigh rides, a Butterfield Acres petting zoo, face painting, music, games, and much more!

Crowchild Classic — January 29th

For the 7th year in a row, the University of Calgary Dinos will face off against the Mount Royal University Cougars for the Crowchild Classic! This traditional hockey game extraordinaire will take place at the Scotiabank Saddledome. Ticket sales start on January 7th at 9am — admission fee is $5 each.

Specialized Festivals and Events in Calgary

The Motorcycle Show — January 4-6th

Taking place at the BMO Centre on Stampede grounds is this year's Motorcycle Show. This specialized event will entertain cyclists and enthusiasts both new and experienced with various activities, exhibitions, demonstrations, and exciting contests. There may even be a chance to win your own motorcycle!

Calgary Renovation Show — January 11-13th

"Your Project, Our Experts." If the year of 2019 holds any home renovations for you, then the Calgary Renovation Show is where you will want to be this January. The show's exhibitors and presenters will offer tips, advice, solutions, and inspiration for your own home projects. This year's show will even include a visit from HGTV Canada star, Bryan Baeumler! Order your tickets online (early bird ticket discounts are available).

The Wedding Fair — January 13th

If you are recently engaged and soon to be wed, The Wedding Fair is the perfect event for you and your wedding party! This wedding exhibition showcases all of the bridal and nuptial necessities, trends, and styles, and will feature over 250 different wedding vendors. Flowers, cake, DJ, décor — everything you need and more can be discovered at this event taking place at the BMO Centre on January 13th.

Music and Entertainment Events in Calgary

Salute to Vienna New Year's Concert — January 1st

For the 22nd year in a row, the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra is excited to share the beauty and music of Vienna at their Salute to Vienna New Year's Concert. The evening will feature Strauss waltzes and other melodies performed and accompanied by singers, dancers, the Strauss Symphony of Canada, and of course, the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra.

Ballet BC — January 18-19th

After an extended absence, the Alberta Ballet is proud to announce that Ballet BC has returned to Calgary for another world-class program. In just under two hours, guests will enjoy music by Thom Willems, Johannes Brahms, as well as other famous classical musicians such as Mozart and Vivaldi. Prepare to “shatter your assumptions of what ballet can be” at this contemporary dance event.

Music of the Movies — January 18-19th

Featuring music from Pirates of the Caribbean, Singin' in the Rain, Frozen, The Avengers, and many more of your favourites, the Music of the Movies is a must-see musical event! Hosted by the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, come for a night of music familiarity and hum along to your favourite tunes! Tickets available online.

Charity Events in Calgary

Calgary Icebreaker Polar Dip — January 1st

Does jumping into ice-cold, freezing water sound like your type of winter fun? Then you do not want to miss out on the Calgary Icebreaker Polar Dip. This fundraising event is hosted in support of gathering donations to fight human trafficking while also checking something off of the bucket list! Come take part and prepare to get cold!

Zumbathon Charity Event — January 20th

Do you like to Zumba with the best of them? You are invited to the New Horizon Mall on January 20th for the Zumbathon Charity Event — a fitness class like no other. This 2-hour Zumba event is in support of the United Way of Calgary — all ticket and donation proceeds go directly to the organization. Wear your runners and fitness gear and get ready to move!

Ski For Heart — January 25-26th

This month's Ski For Heart event takes place in the Rocky Mountains where fundraising teams or individuals will enjoy the sights and slopes of Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Each registrant must raise $500 to participate — all proceeds going to the event organizers: The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada. Come ski, celebrate, and spend time with family and friends in the mountains while supporting a good cause!

Make 2019 a year to remember with the many sights, sounds, and tastes that Calgary has to offer, starting this January! For a more detailed and fully comprehensive list, visit the City of Calgary event page, the Calgary Tourism page, Eventbrite, or search for local events on Facebook to find more January events and activities.