Where Calgary Comes Together for the Holidays

The holidays have a way of transforming familiar places into something special. When snow begins to blanket the ground and the festive season nears, Southcentre becomes more than a shopping destination — it turns into a gathering place where people linger a little longer, connect a little more and make the most of the season.

With the holidays come festive activities at Southcentre. From Santa visits and gift wrapping to cookies and storytime, shoppers find everything on their gift lists with a little added festive fun.

During the holidays, a Southcentre visit isn’t complete without stopping by the Enchanted Forest to see Santa. The forest’s soft lights and calm energy create a serene backdrop for families, with Peace of Mind Visits — a sensory-friendly opportunity to see Santa — available for those who require a quieter experience. On certain days, pets join the fun too at Paws with Claus, which collects donations for the Calgary Humane Society.

Nearby, Santa’s Reading Nook offers a welcome pause from the bustle — a quiet corner where kids can flip through storybooks or settle in for a short film while parents catch their breath.

For a hands-on experience, the Cookie Kitchen invites visitors to decorate cookies, with a donation to Made by Momma, a Calgary-based organization that supports local families in need. The Gift Wrap Booth also returns, with volunteers from Cystic Fibrosis Canada wrapping gifts in exchange for donations that help fund life-changing research and care.

And while giving back is part of the magic, there’s plenty to enjoy for those in full shopping mode, too. The mix of local boutiques and national favourites means you can find everything from home décor to holiday party looks and stocking stuffers in one visit. It’s effortless, festive and full of discovery: exactly what holiday shopping should feel like.

For those who like to combine errands with entertainment, PowerPlay adds an extra reason to stay. With its mix of dining, games and social spaces, it’s an easy spot to unwind, laugh and refuel between stops.

The season moves quickly, but the atmosphere at Southcentre Mall invites you to slow down, grab a coffee, people-watch, wrap up your list and simply enjoy the rhythm of the holidays. It’s a reminder that the best part of this time of year isn’t just about what we buy or give, but how we come together to celebrate it.

To learn more, visit southcentremall.com.

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