fbpx

The outdoor skating rink in Central Commons Park has opened for the season. On-site skate rentals are now available.

Jolly Good Shows! Your Movie Nights Are Made for Holiday Cheer

December 14, 2019 by University District

How to easily add a dash of holiday sparkle to your TV screen!

 

Pop on the popcorn maker. Snuggle up in your holiday PJs. Turn down the lights. Press play! The best yuletide movies are calling your name! 

 

Shine the holiday lights on Hollywood and break out the classics and new favourites that put everyone in the festive spirit. From the belly laughs of Elf and the giggle-inducing antics in A Christmas Story to the delightful classics that have enchanted holiday film seekers for decades. What’s not to love about a cozy night in with a great seasonal picture, hot cocoa and time together?

 

Gather up your family and friends, set the stage for some festive fun and go from “scrooged” to “it’s a wonderful life” with some tips to help the magic of the season take centre stage and some festive flick suggestions from our very own University District team to get inspiration rolling. There’s no time like show time at snow time!

 

 

Movie-going just got a little more upscale in NW Calgary! Whether you’re an ultimate film fan or simply enjoy spending an evening surrounded by the sights and sounds of blockbuster greatness, University District will be home to a stand-alone, adults-only VIP Cinemas theatre. What can you expect to experience at this five-auditorium theatre? Click here to learn more. We can’t wait until they open their doors in 2021! 

 

Plan a Blockbuster Holiday Film Night at Home

 

From treats to tipples and everything in between, plan a holiday get together to remember with tips that are sure to bring some holiday cheer, jumpstart your movie night tradition and send those bah-humbugs packing.

 

Set the scene for some holiday fun

 

Lights, camera and action! Set the tone for a super cinematic evening by dressing up your space with props. From string lights nestled in boughs or  garland that add a bit of twinkle and sparkle to your viewing space and holiday banners that sum up the season to a mini chalkboard that notes the evening’s showing. 

 

While you can always use candles for a night in, turn your living room into a theater with a lighted pathway back to the pantry for snacks (thank you LED rope lights!) or use well-lit marquee signs among the spread of goodies to create a festive spotlight fitting for a very merry bash.

 

Fun tip: Movie nights are a fun way to connect as a family. Build on those connections with some fun pre-film activities. Keep your kids or grandkids busy with crafts like making “Admit One” tickets and paper snack cones for the big night. What a fun way to literally usher in the most loved seasonal tradition of movie night!

 

 

Baby it’s cold outside. Time to get cozy!

 

Pull out the sleeping bags, some extra fluffy pillows and fleece blankets. It’s movie night! Cozy up the viewing area by placing baskets of throws around the room and deck out the sofa with plush, comfy faux fur pillows. Maybe even pop a small tent or gather all the sheets, blankets and cushions you can and invite your kids or grandkids to build the perfect pillow fort! They’ll love to cuddle up in their newly constructed hideaway – but don’t be surprised if you hear some Zzz’s before the credits roll.

 

Fun tip: Need extra seating? Large floor pillows or faux fur poufs are a great option, giving guests soft front-row seats.

 

Do Calgary’s colder months have you craving toasty interiors? Bring on the movie nights, we say! Transform your home into a warm and welcoming winter retreat perfect for any at-home blockbuster experience with some insider tips and ideas from resident interior designer with U/D builder partner Brookfield Residential. Take a look here for some crafty and inviting design suggestions! 

 


Play dress up for movie night

 

Amp up your cinematic experience and make it feel extra full of Christmas magic by dressing up in festive outfits.  Put on those silly holiday tees and graphic leggings or rock those matching onesies and ugly sweaters. If it’s a Santa Claus marathon, don a jolly old Saint Nick hat and if you’re watching Harry Potter, throw on scarves and paint lightning bolts on your foreheads. Be creative, have fun and don’t forget a cozy pair of season-themed socks!

 

Fun tip: From hats, sweaters and full-on Santa suits, fewer things are cuter than a fur baby in a holiday get-up.  For all your costume needs visit Walmart in Northland Mall or Party City in Crowfoot Centre, both just 10 minutes from U/D and let your four-legged companion bring you a hearty dose of cheer and plenty of photo ops this holiday season.

 

 

Reel in the fun with much-needed munchies

 

No movie marathon is complete without a concession stand of snacks. Opt for classic munchies such as popcorn, red licorice, chocolate nibbles and gummies or assemble a veggie platter with hummus, a DIY pizza or a tray of fruit on a stick for some healthful options. 

 

Kick things up a notch and be the chef of movie night with some tasty and more creative cinema-style snacks. Bake up some apple and banana chips; whip up a batch of sweet and spicy nuts and layer up some nachos. Time to get snacking! Read on for our festive suggestion!

 

Fun tip: Whatever treats you choose, mini containers or cute printed bags makes it easy for your guests to hod and graze while adding a festive touch to everyone’s evening.

 

Beverages are a cinematic must! Try one of these refreshing adult and kid-friendly drink recipes to add a festive buzz to your evening – not just from the cocktails! Looking for something warm and festive? Local chef and cookbook author Julie Van Rosendaal has you covered with her fan-favourite Salted Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate recipe

 

 

No distractions allowed

 

Buzz, buzz and beep, beep – no more! Once the fun begins, hand over the phones and enjoy the flick. Avoid checking in on incoming emails and the latest updates on social media by making film night a no-phone zone or “unplugged party”. Simply have your guests put their phone in a drawer in another room or as friends and family arrive, have them place their phone in a “drop off” basket at the door.

 

Fun tip: Plan for an intermission. It’s a great time to shake the sillies out, take a bathroom break if you have little ones, maybe a chance to refill the snack bar and of course take a few minutes for the host to post that festive movie night selfie on Instagram for all to enjoy. Just remember to share these memorable moments with us by tagging @UDistrictYYC!

 

 

Festive Fa-La-La Flicks: Our Picks!

 

Need a shot of holiday cheer? Deck the halls, make some cocoa, snuggle up and watch one of the best seasonal movies of all time. To get you started, our team made a list of their personal festive favourites and checked it at least twice. From classics that have stood the test of time to comedies set during the jolly season, there’s something for everyone. Now all you need are some snacks and a warm blanket!

 

  • Travis’s picks: Elf and The Holiday

 

  • Josh’s picks: How the Grinch Stole Christmas and A Charlie Brown Christmas

 

  • Lisa’s picks: Home Alone 1 and 2, The Santa Clause starring Tim Allen and The Nightmare Before Christmas

 

  • Deanna’s pick: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (claymation version)

 

  • Adam’s pick: Prancer

 

Give the film buff on your nice list the perfect gift this season without breaking the bank. Whether you are shopping for friends, family, significant others, or even co-workers, these expert tips from our friends at Scotiabank will help keep your spending on track. Take a look here

 

 

Tis the Season for Popcorn: Gingerbread Caramel Crunch!

 

If you love gingerbread (and we do!), you won’t be able to resist this crispy, crunchy corn that’s packed full of seasonal flavours. Make it for a holiday party, share it as a tasty gift or add a little extra magic for a cozy night of holiday movie-watching.  It’s simple to make, a real crowd-pleaser with its sweet coating and rich seasonal flavours and will keep everyone coming back for more. No wonder it’s a University District favourite!

 

Ingredients 

 

  • 14 cups air-popped popcorn
  • 1/4 cup corn syrup 
  • 1/2 cup butter, cubed
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup molasses
  • 1 – 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

 

*Recipe courtesy of Taste of Home

 

Step 1: Get popping!

 

In an air popper, prepare 14 cups of corn. Place in a large bowl coated with cooking spray and set aside.

 

Step 2: Bring ingredients together

 

Butter the sides of a small heavy saucepan. Add the brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, molasses, ginger, cinnamon and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Allow the mixture to boil without stirring for 5 minutes.

 

 

Step 3: Pour gingerbread caramel mixture over popcorn

 

Remove the mixture from the heat. Stir in the baking soda (mixture will foam) and vanilla and quickly pour over your popped corn. Mix well.

 

Step 4: Bake, cool and eat!

 

Transfer the coated corn to two greased 15 x 10 x 1 inch-baking pans. Bake the coated popcorn at 250°F for one hour, stirring every 10 minutes. Remove from pans and place on waxed paper to cool. Once cooled, eat away!

 

We hope these movie night essentials help make your evening a blockbuster hit. Just remember, it all starts with good company, tasty snacks and a charming holiday flick. Get settled on the couch (or in your fort!), turn off the lights, and enjoy. Happy Holidays everyone!

 

Planning to host a holiday movie night with family and friends this year? Capture the moment and share it with us on FacebookInstagram and Twitter.


Join the Discussion

Comments are moderated before being posted. Your email address is required but will not be published.

Join our email list for more information and our newsletter.
I'm interested in learning more about:
Popular
Celebrate the Holiday Season at U/D
Everything to Know About Retail Main Street
Celebrating Small Business Week in University District
Discover Dean’s Landing By Rohit Homes – Coming Soon to U/D
See All Blog Posts
2023, A year in review, active, Activity, Age-friendly community, Aging in place, Alberta, Alberta Children's Hospital, All ages, ALT Hotel, Alt Hotels, amenities, Ana Cummings, apartment rental, Aria, Artist, August, Autumn, Bakeries, baking tips, Balcony, Balcony Decor, BBQ, beard grooming, Bike routes, BILD Awards, Block Party, blockbuster movie night, Bookstores, Bragg Creek, Breakfast, Brenda Stafford Foundation, Brenda Strafford Foundation, Brookfield Residential, Brunch, Bubble Tea, Bucket List, Budget, Budget conscious, Builder Launch, Building Industry and Land Development, Business, Calgary, Calgary Activities, Calgary Art, Calgary bakeries, Calgary business, Calgary community, Calgary Drinks, Calgary events, Calgary Fitness, Calgary Hearing, Calgary LRT, Calgary Parks, Calgary Real Estate, Calgary restaurants, Calgary staycation, Calgary tourism, Calgary Trails, Calgary Transit, Calgary Women, Cambridge Manor, Canada, Canada Day, Canmore, Capella, Cartwright lighting & furniture, Celebration, centerpieces, Central Commons, Charcut, charity, cineplex, Classes, Cochrane, comfort food, Community, community festival, Community Living, condo life, condos, connections, contest, cookie baking, cooking, cooking together, Creative, Crystal Creek Homes, Curious Hair, Curious Salon, Date Ideas, Date night, Decor, Decor Shops, Decor Tips, Denim & Smith, Dental, dental care, design styles, Dining, Discounts and Deals, Discovery Centre, DIY, dog park, Dogs, Downsize, downsizing, downsizing tips, Easter, Eco decor, eLearning, Entertainment, environment, events, exercise, Explore, Fall, Fall Decor, fall design, family, Father's Day, Financial, fitness, fitness as we age, food, food waste, Functional Fitness, Garden Maintenance, gardening, gift guide, giving back, golf, Green Calgary, Grey Cup, Group Germain Hotels, Guide to Northwest Calgary, GUILD, gym, hair grooming, Health, Healthy Eating, Healthy Foods, Hearing loss, hobbies, holiday, holiday activities, Holiday Budget, holiday memories, Holiday movies, holiday parties, holiday season, holiday traditions, holiday wines, home, Home Automation, home decor, Home Maintenance, home office, Home organization, Home Ownership, Home Technology, homemade pizza, Homeowners, Homes by Avi, hosting the holidays, housing, I Can for Kids, IBI Group, Ice Cream, Ice Cream Shops, Ice Rink, inclusive, Interior Design, Interior Design for your pets, Interior Design Tips, interior lighting, International Womens Day, Isolation, Jayman, Jayman BUILT, Kananaskis, kids learning, Level Playing Field, lighting, local, local business, local good, Love on Main Street, love your pet, made in Calgary, Magna, Maple, Market Wines, McKinley Burkart, meal prep, meals, mens grooming, mental health, mindful spaces, Mother's Day Brunch, Movies at home, moving, multi-generational, Nature, New at UD, New homes, New Projects, New Resident, New Retailers, Night Market, North Calgary, North Hill Mall, North Pond, Northwest Calgary, Northwest Calgary Brunch, Northwest Commons Park, Northwest neighbour, Northwestival, nutrition tips, NW Calgary, Office, Olympic Oval, online learning, Orangetheory, Organization, outdoors, Park n' Play Design, Parking, Parks, Partners, party hosting tips, Patio Decor, pet care, pet love, Photography, Picnic, plant, plant care, play space, Playcore National Demonstration Site, playground, Programs, puppy love, rafting, real estate, recipes, redecorating, rent to own, rentals, restaurant, Retail, Retail Main Street, retailers, Rightsize, Romance, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Save-On-Foods, seasonal maintenance, senior health, Senior living, Seniors, sensory gadgets, shop local, Skating, Smaller space living, Smart Home, Sports, Spring, Spring Cleaning, Staples, Staycation, Summer Activities, Summer Food, summer getaways, Summer Recap, sustainable design, table setting, tablescape, Thanksgiving, The Space Reclaimers, things to do, tips, Tips and Tricks, tourism calgary, townhome, townhome living, Townhomes, townhouse living, Trails in Northwest Calgary, travel, travel alberta, TREC Dental, U/D, UCalgary, UD Events, UD Life, UDLife, University District, University District Dental, University of Calgary, Urban Balcony, urban dog park, Urban Garden, Urban Patio Decor, Valentines Day, Vegan Cuisine, Vegan Food, Vendors, vermicomposting, Village Ice Cream, Volunteer, Volunteerism, Walking, West Campus Development Trust, Wine, wine experience, Winefest, Winsport Zipline, winter, winter activities, winter festival, Winter Fitness, winter fun, winter memories, winter pet care, winter pet care tips, winter traditions, winter warm up, Winter workout, women grooming, Women Leaders, workouts, Yard, year in review, YYC Events, YYC Hot Chocolate Fest

Discover NW Calgary's most interesting places, people and things

Visit Our Channel

Looking for something to do in NW Calgary?

Check Out Our Event Calendar

The University District blog is a resource for Calgarians who want to live, work, play, visit or buy in the northwest. We will provide you with information, stories, news and a closer look at the things that matter so you can live a more inspired, active and connected life in NW Calgary at University District… Life works here.