This past weekend in Calgary was a study in contrasts, where biting winter cold met the fiery energy of live rock music and the warm glow of community holiday spirit. From near -20°C temperatures to a concert-filled Saddledome and festive preparations across the city, Postmedia photographers captured the full spectrum of late November life in Alberta's largest city.
A Frosty Embrace of Winter
On Saturday, November 29, 2025, Calgarians and their canine companions braved one of the season's first truly cold days. At Tom Campbell’s Hill, the temperature hovered close to -20 degrees Celsius, with frost icing the grass and trees. Despite the deep freeze, the community remained active. Eight-year-old friends Maxwell and Cole were spotted enjoying the snowy conditions, sledding with joy in the Thorncliffe neighbourhood. For one well-prepared husky, the frigid air was simply a return to its element.
The chilly weather also meant work for city crews. On Friday, workers were busy across downtown Calgary, clearing sidewalks of snow with a combination of machines and shovels to ensure safe passage for pedestrians.
Holiday Spirit and Community Warmth
As the temperature dropped, efforts to ramp up holiday cheer intensified. At the historic Lougheed House, executive director Shannon Murray and communications specialist Fiona McTaggart were photographed on Friday, November 28, decorating Christmas trees in preparation for the festive season.
The community-centric spirit was on full display Saturday at the annual McMan Youth & Family Holiday Party. Held at the Thorncliffe Greenview Community Association, the event brought together clients, staff, and volunteers. Santa Claus was, unsurprisingly, the centre of attention as the organization, which provides essential housing, mental health programs, and family supports, spread joy and served lunch to those in attendance.
The weekend's charitable efforts culminated on Sunday with The Magic of Christmas's annual Elf Rally. More than 300 volunteer "elves" gathered, practicing carols with the Stampede City Mixed Chorus. These dedicated volunteers prepare for their Christmas Eve mission: using donated Calgary Transit buses to deliver presents, food hampers, and holiday cheer to hundreds of needy families across the city.
A Weekend of High-Energy Concerts
While the outdoors froze, the Scotiabank Saddledome was heating up with back-to-back nights of major concerts. Friday night was dominated by a powerhouse rock lineup. The American band Sleep Theory, featuring lead vocalist Cullen Moore and guitarist Daniel Pruitt, kicked off the evening, opening for the co-headlining acts.
They were followed by the explosive performance of The Used. Vocalist Bert McCracken, guitarist Joey Bradford, and drummer Dan Whitesides delivered a high-octane set to an enthusiastic crowd, setting the stage for the night's headliner.
The main event on Friday was Papa Roach. Frontman Jacoby Shaddix commanded the stage with his signature energy, backed by bassist Tobin Esperance, much to the delight of the packed house.
The music continued on Saturday night with a different vibe. Alt-pop singer-songwriter Julia Wolf opened the show, warming up the crowd for the evening's headliner. The night belonged to Machine Gun Kelly (MGK) and his Lost Americana tour. The American musician performed a dynamic set for a jam-packed Saddledome, bringing a whirlwind weekend of entertainment to a close.
From the serene, frosty landscapes of its parks to the roaring crowds inside its premier arena, Calgary showcased its ability to thrive through the cold, proving that community and culture provide the best insulation against the winter chill.
