Caution | Outdoor water restrictions in effect

Stage 4 Outdoor Water Restrictions are in effect. We are also asking businesses and residents to reduce indoor water use by 25%.

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Explore Downtown

#ExploreDowntownYYC Explore Downtown Calgary

In the city of possibility, downtown is the face and the place of Calgary’s future.

It’s a mix of bold entrepreneurship, where dreams become reality and where creative curiosity is unleashed; it’s toes tapped to music and dipped in the river, drinks sipped from a rooftop and art and culture appreciated up close and personal.

Downtown is where it all happens – it’s the pulse of our city and no matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it here. 

Plan your summer using our Downtown Summer Festival Itinerary!

With over 100 festivals and events happening downtown this summer, the heart of our city will be bursting with fun and entertainment for everyone.

Ready, Set, Explore!

Events in the Spotlight

  • Story City

    All Summer long, Various Downtown locations

    Choose your own adventure with Story City! Story City is a free, interactive storytelling experience that makes you the hero of your own adventure. Grab your phone, a few friends, and hit the streets to explore locally-made stories by and for Calgarians. Download the app to get started!

    Learn more

  • Calgary Culture Days

    September 1 – 30, Various locations

    This September, immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural tapestry of Calgary as the city comes alive for Calgary Culture Days 2024. Calgary Culture Days offers a unique opportunity to discover, experience and celebrate the arts, culture, heritage, diversity and community spirit that make our city a dynamic place to live, work and play. From music and theatre to festivals, cultural events, artist exhibits and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

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  • STATIC

    September 4 - 14, The Erratics Indie Arts Club

    Inside Out Theatre & Chromatic Theatre present the world premiere of Static: A Party Girls Memoirs. Static is a coming-of-age story inspired by true events, written and performed by Mexican-Canadian artist Ashley King. With moments of laughter and tears, this dark comedy explores whether everything happens for a reason and if joy can really be found in unexpected places.

    Learn more

  • 2024 Honens Festival

    September 5 - 8, Central Memorial Park

    The 2024 Honens Festival features something for everyone with the piano at the centre! Concerts include free, family-friendly events such as 176 Keys at CF Chinook Centre and on Stephen Avenue Walk; two adaptive concerts designed specifically to be inclusive and accessible for all, including neurodivergent audiences; a solo piano recital by 2022 Honens Prize Laureate Illia Ovcharenko; Bison Noir: a late-night cabaret with a Jazz Age focus; and two performances of the ever-popular Open Air in Central Memorial Park in Calgary and George Lane Memorial Park in High River.

    Learn more

  • Calgary’s Taste of Italy Festival

    September 8, Bridgeland Riverside Community Centre

    The Taste of Italy festival brings a taste of Italy to Calgary and showcases Italian businesses and restaurants in the area. The 3rd annual festival will take place at the beautiful Bridgeland Riverside Community Centre, the perfect setting to experience Italian art, food, music, dancing and more fun activities!

    Learn more

So Long Summer Series

Say goodbye to summer in style at the So Long Summer Series at Lot 6 (311 8 Street S.W.)! From August 30th to September 28th, the west end of Downtown Calgary will transform into a lively hub of free, outdoor fun!

This exciting event series will transform Lot 6 into ‘River Hall,’ a temporary gathering space for Calgarians to enjoy a blend of all-ages entertainment, dining and relaxation in a welcoming, inclusive and pet-friendly atmosphere.

Join us for a five-week celebration with pop-up vendors, live music, and a fantastic mix of all-ages entertainment. From local artisans to up-and-coming musical talent, there’s something for everyone!

For daily updates about the event, check out the @riverhallyyc Instagram account. Bring the family and your furry friends to the So Long Summer Series —it's all free! 

Getting here

Calgary Transit: You can get downtown with Calgary’s Public Transit system. For more information on Calgary city buses or the CTrain, including schedules, maps, passes, and fares, visit Calgary Transit.  

Walk, wheel, or run: River Hall is the perfect destination to access by walking, wheeling, or running via the Bow River pathway! Bike racks will be available.  

Parking: There is a parking lot available at Lot 6. If the lot is full, there is street parking nearby (please note, there’s limited parking north of 3rd Ave). 

Itineraries

Explore these sample itineraries to help guide your visit. New memories are waiting – start here, in downtown Calgary.

  • Outdoor enthusiast

    Downtown Calgary has miles of scenic pathways and beautiful parks. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll, a picnic in the park, or adrenaline-filled activity, we have you covered!

  • Family

    There’s a wide variety of family-friendly activities to keep you and your kids entertained for hours!

  • Food and restaurants

    Calgary is home to some of the best chefs and restaurants in Canada, and downtown is where the culinary magic is happening.

  • Shopping

    In the mood to go shopping or enjoy a day of window browsing? Look no further than Downtown Calgary, where you’ll find the very best in shops, services and unique handmade goods.

  • Night life

    Calgary is a city that never sleeps, with a vibrant night life scene that has a little something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for live music, dancing, or a cozy pub, you’ll be sure to find your perfect spot.

  • Performing arts and exhibitions

    Downtown Calgary is a dynamic hub for performing arts and theatre. The many theatres and performance arts venues contribute to the city's vibrant theatrical scene, offering innovative and compelling productions that engage and inspire audiences.

  • Arts and culture

    Downtown Calgary pulsates with a vibrant tapestry of arts and culture, weaving together a rich narrative of creativity, expression, and community. Downtown Calgary stands as a hub where tradition and innovation converge, fostering an environment where the arts flourish and culture thrives.

Neighbourhood guides

Stay connected

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