This past weekend in Calgary painted a vivid picture of community spirit, seasonal charity, and sporting excitement, all captured through the lenses of local photographers. From solemn remembrances to joyful celebrations and on-ice action, the city's diverse character was on full display.
Community Support and Solemn Reflection
The weekend's activities underscored a strong theme of giving back. On Saturday, December 20, 2025, the Veterans Association Food Bank executed its seventh annual Christmas Hamper Deliveries. A dedicated team of volunteers, including young helpers, delivered approximately 340 personalized holiday hampers to veterans and their families across the city. Each hamper was carefully customized to provide everything necessary for a warm, shared holiday meal.
Earlier, on Friday, December 19, the community gathered for a more somber occasion. The 11th annual Longest Night of the Year memorial event was held at the Homeless Memorial at 107 13 Ave. S.E. The event, attended by friends, family, and supporters like Bo Masterson of the Calgary Homeless Foundation, honoured Calgarians who died while experiencing homelessness. Attendees placed flowers and listened as names were read from the growing memorial list.
Festive Fun and Sporting Thrills
The festive season brought joy to children on Sunday, December 21, at the Calgary Firefighters Toy Association's annual Children's Christmas Party. Held at the Telus Convention Centre, the event was a whirlwind of happiness. Kids like six-year-old Demir Camlibel enjoyed time with Santa, played with giant balloon bubbles, and got their faces painted. The event featured appearances by Harvey the Hound and provided smiles for families like the Browns and children such as Mariia Shevtsova, 7.
For sports fans, the action was at the Scotiabank Saddledome on Saturday night. The Calgary Flames faced off against the Vegas Golden Knights in a high-energy NHL matchup. The Flames' offense was potent, with goals from players including Ryan Lomberg, Mikael Backlund, and Joel Farabee. Goaltender Devin Cooley made several key stops against Golden Knights chances, contributing to the home team's victory celebrated enthusiastically by the team.
City Scenes and Winter Activities
Around the city, other scenes captured the essence of a Calgary December. Despite ongoing frigid temperatures, Calgarians embraced winter fun. The WinSport Tube Park opened on Saturday, with sledders undeterred by the cold. Meanwhile, the Devonian Gardens offered a lush, green respite from the winter landscape indoors on Friday.
A glimpse of the future was also visible, with construction progress continuing on the new Scotia Place event centre, seen rising near the iconic Saddledome.
From charitable deeds and community remembrance to family festivities and athletic prowess, the weekend of December 19-21, 2025, showcased the multifaceted heart of Calgary during the holiday season.
