December in Calgary
written by: Teigan Reamsbottom
If you haven't started on last year's New Year's resolutions yet, spend five minutes at the gym, eat one head of broccoli and read the first page of Cliff's Notes on "War and Peace." You only have a few weeks left until you'll have to start all over again.
Truth be told, some of the fondest memories of my life come from the holiday season. A tradition in my household was always a snowy afternoon at the start of December when my mother and I would plant roots in the living room to watch Oprah's Favourite Things. But since "O" has abdicated from the daytime throne, I may have to search for a repeat of last year's Favourite Things for a little nostalgia. Nothing could ever beat watching Oprah waddle out on stage only to surprise a select group of super fans and see them spontaneously combust when they found out that they were in THE audience of the year. Wigs would go flying, blood sugar would drop and I think that a few of the women in the audience actually went into seizure from all the excitement (Gayle included)!
...But Oprah or no Oprah, the holiday season is now upon us and your metabolism couldn't be more terrified. This is the season of love, the season of hope and the season of carbohydrates. Enjoy it while it lasts, because this is the one month where you can justify woofing down as many treats as you can possibly fit in your mouth at once without fear of judgement. Not from me, anyways. This really IS the most wonderful time of the year.
Not only is this the season of delicious baking, it is also the season of formal parties. It's an excuse to pull out your best suit and cocktail dresses (that one in the back of your closet that sparkles in the light and you wouldn't dare wear during any other season!) to impress your neighbours, co-workers, friends and family. In all of the hustle that surrounds the season though it is important to make some time to take in a few new experiences and enjoy some different leisure activities to keep yourself out of the Sanatorium, come January 2nd. Here are a few great events in and around Calgary that are worth your very valuable time in checking out this holiday season:
- 4th Annual SAIT Christmas Craft Sale - Crazy4Crafts Shows is hosting a handcraft / artisan craft sale at SAIT's Heritage Hall on Thursday, December 1st from 9:00am to 3:00pm. Check out a wide range of handmade crafts, one-of-a-kind gifts and accessories and meet local artisans. If you're looking for unique handcrafted holiday gifts for someone special... or just to treat yourself, this is one craft fair not to be missed! Admission is free and more information can be found by searching for the event on Facebook or by clicking the link posted above.
- Cranston Christmas Bazaar - The Cranston Resident's Association will be hosting its first ever Cranston Christmas Bazaar on Saturday, December 3rd from 10:00am to 4:00pm in the Century Hall gymnasium. Get an early start on your holiday shopping while supporting local home-based businesses. Find that special gift for that special someone by browsing the variety of handmade gifts on display!
- Auburn Bay Family Christmas Party - Spend the afternoon with family and friends on Saturday, December 10th from 1:00pm to 3:00pm celebrating the season in Auburn Bay. Bring your ice skates and toboggans and enjoy classic cottage country activities with Santa! Please note that due to construction in the banquet room, this will be an outdoor event and activities might change depending on the weather. Call (403) 547-2605 to RSVP.
- Tom Jackson's "'Twas in the Moon of Wintertime" - Join Tom Jackson for an evening of song and celebration on Monday, December 12th from 6:00pm to 10:00pm at The Ranchmen's Club. All funds raised will benefit Calgary Meals on Wheels. Tickets are $250.00 each or $2000.00 for a table of eight.
- Christmas with George Canyon - Canada's own country superstar heats up the holidays as he joins the orchestra for some down-home hits and seasonal tunes. Tickets are still available for the Tuesday, December 20th show at Epcor's Jack Singer Concert Hall.
- Bolly Christmas Party - Presented by Studio Bollywood, iDance and the Magnolia Banquet Hall. This event includes a "Bolly-licious" dinner, DJ and dance, Bollywood entertainment, henna, prizes and more! Join the fun on Saturday, December 17th at 7:00pm at the Magnolia Banquet Hall for one of the biggest parties of the season! Call Vish or Tania at (403) 246-5739 or email studiobollywood@hotmail.com to RSVP.
Did we miss an event that you think we should know about? Leave us a comment! We'd love to hear what events YOU will be attending over the next month!