It’s officially November, which means spooky season has come to a close, and the countdown to Christmas is officially on. From live music festivals and comedy shows to film screenings and the first holiday events of the season, Calgary has a big week ahead.
So if you need some plans to add to your calendar this week. We’ve found 10 things happening around Calgary this week worth adding to your plans.
If you’re looking for something to do this Monday that won’t break the bank, the Olympic Oval has you covered. The Jayman BUILT Monday Night Toonie Skate lets you hit the ice for just $2, with sessions running from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
When: Monday, Nov. 2, 2026
Time: 6 to 8 p.m.
Where: Olympic Oval — 288 Collegiate Blvd. NW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: $2 per person
Calgary is getting six days of incredible live jazz this week as JazzYYC’s Canadian Jazz Festival returns to the city. The festival will bring together established Canadian musicians and emerging talent for performances at venues across the city, including Studio Bell, Devonian Gardens, Ironwoo Stage and Grill, and several spots along the Music Mile in Inglewood.
When: Tuesday, Nov. 3 to Sunday, Nov. 8, 2026
Time: Performance times vary
Where: Various locations across Calgary
Cost: Ticket prices vary based on performance
The Smashing Pumpkins are heading to the Saddledome this week! The band will be bringing their Rats In A Cage Tour to the city, with two sets celebrating the 30th anniversary of their album “Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness”
When: Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026
Time: 8 p.m.
Where: Scotiabank Saddledome — 555 Saddledome Rise SE, Calgary, Alta,
Cost: Starting at $232.30
There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of noodles when the weather starts to cool down. YYC Noodle Festival is back, and over 10 days you can try dishes from participating restaurants across the city. Once you’ve found your favourites, you can cast your vote for the best noodle dish, with one restaurant taking home the crown at the end of the festival. There will also be plenty of giveaways happening throughout the festival, so keep an eye on YYC Noodle Festival’s Instagram for a chance to win some goodies.
When: Thursday, Nov. 5 to Sunday, Nov. 15, 2026
Time: Times vary
Where: Various restaurants across Calgary
Cost: Cost varies based on dish
The Calgary Justice Film Festival is taking over The Confluence, screening free documentaries from Canada and around the world that explore topics like human rights, environmental issues and social justice. Many of the screenings will also be followed by community discussions where you’ll have an opportunity to hear different perspectives and learn more about the issues featured on screen.
When: Thursday, Nov. 5 to Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026
Time: 6 to 11 p.m.
Where: The Confluence Historic Site and Parkland — 750 9th Ave. SE, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Free
Christmas season is kicking off early at the Blue Grass Garden Centre! This Thursday, the garden centre is hosting an evening of holiday shopping, festive entertainment, and family-friendly activities. You can browse the Christmas displays, shop 20 per cent off holiday decor, enjoy live music and food and even snap a photo with Santa.
When: Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026
Time: 5 to 8 p.m.
Where: Blue Grass Nursery — 260130 B Writing Creek Cres., Rocky View County, Alta.
Cost: Free to attend
Contemporary Calgary is hosting its Free First Thursday this week, with free admission to the gallery from 5 to 9 p.m. This month’s event is happening in partnership with Springboard Performance as part of Fluid Fest, and the evening will feature interactive exhibits, dance performances and workshops. You’ll also be able to see some current exhibitions, snack on free popcorn, or grab a drink from the bar.
When: Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026
Time: 5 to 9 p.m.
Where: Contemporary Calgary — 701 11th St. SW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Free (registration required)
Need a good laugh this week? Jonathan Van Ness is bringing their Hot and Healed comedy tour to MacEwan Hall this Thursday. Best known for their role on Netflix’s Queer Eye, JVN will take the stage for an evening of comedy, personal stories and plenty of personality.
When: Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026
Time: 7 to 9 p.m.
Where: MacEwan Hall — 2500 University Dr. NW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $57.55
Beakerhead is returning to Calgary for three nights this week, turning the Telus Spark into a hands-on science playground, with experiments, interactive installations and live talks. The event will feature everything from medieval armoured combat and a fire-versus-ice showdown to digital art experiences, performances and more.
Friday night programming will be adults-only, while Saturday and Sunday offer all-ages programming.
When: Friday, Nov. 6 to Sunday, Nov. 8, 2026
Time: Friday, 6 p.m. to midnight; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Telus Spark Science Centre — 212 St. George’s Dr. NE, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Friday: $39 for non-members, $20 for members; Saturday: Free; Sunday: Adults: $10, Kids: $5
Tim Burton’s beloved The Nightmare Before Christmas comes to life on stage, with a live orchestra performing Danny Elfman’s iconic score. The FILMharmonique Orchestra will accompany the full film as audiences follow Jack Skellington’s attempt to take over Christmas.
When: Friday, Nov. 6, 2026
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Where: Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium — 1415 14th Ave. NW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $74.99
Enjoy the week, Calgary!
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Kaiya Williams
Kaiya is a Calgary-based writer and content creator with a background in marketing and digital storytelling. She has a passion for community-driven stories and covering local experiences that connect people.
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