Nov. 21, 2025
Skate with Santa returns to the Olympic Oval
The holiday season is back, and what better way to celebrate than with a cherished Calgary tradition .
The festive event returns to the Olympic Oval on Dec. 6 for an afternoon of skating, crafting, face painting and a special visit from Santa himself.
The head elf is scheduled to be at the Oval for one day only so organizers warn would-be attendees to not miss their chance to snap a photo and enjoy the holiday cheer on the ice.
This years event is adding an extra sprinkle of holiday magic with the introduction of a brand-new holiday market, showcasing vendors from (ABB) and UCalgary student-entrepreneurs through the Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking.
Its a perfect opportunity to shop local, support UCalgary talent and find unique gifts for the season, says Jeff Wallace, BCS10, business development lead in the Office of Development and Alumni Engagement.
The Holiday Market offers Alumni Built Business owners a chance to showcase their holiday-themed products and connect with a wider community, he says.
Its an exciting opportunity to grow brand awareness and strengthen partnerships through the Alumni Built Business program.
"This is the first time weve opened the event to our ABB owner community, and were eager to see it grow into a cherished annual tradition.
Whether an alum or a member of the wider community, everyones invited to take in the fun.
UCalgary alumni and their guests receive free admission with a donation to the , and can enjoy complimentary cookies and hot chocolate through a festive stamp card.
All other attendees are welcome at the regular recreational skating rates, listed on the .
By bringing together Skate with Santa and the Holiday Market, were creating a fun, festive day that also highlights the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of our UCalgary students and alumni, says Kaitlyn De Boer, marketing, communications and events specialist at the Oval.
For her, the best part of the day is seeing that joy in action.
Its wonderful to watch families on the ice and kids lighting up during the festivities, says De Boer.
Skate with Santa is a chance to make memories that will last long after the holidays and to experience the magic of the fastest ice in the world in full festive swing.