Downtown Summer Festivals
Downtown Summer Festivals & Events Summer Starts Here!
Break out your sunglasses and embrace the summer vibes – because Summer Starts Here, in downtown Calgary! With over 200 festivals and events happening downtown this summer, the heart of our city will be bursting with energy, entertainment and community pride as we kick off a summer packed with fun, local talent and memory-making events.
Please check the official event websites for the most up-to-date information regarding cancellations, rescheduling or other important updates.
Explore downtown with these summer festivals and events:
FEATURED EVENT
Canada Day
When: July 1
Where: The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland (formerly Fort Calgary), St. Patrick’s Island, Municipal Building
Website: calgary.ca/CanadaDay
Celebrate Canada Day with a full day of fun, connection and culture for all ages. Enjoy an Indigenous spotlight and powwow, live music, cultural interactive activities, food trucks, face painting and more! Be sure to catch the all-Canadian Main Stage show at The Confluence starting at 3:20 p.m., featuring Lu Kala, Big Sugar, Aysanabee and headliner Sam Roberts Band. Cap off the day with fireworks above Stampede Park just after 11 p.m.
Alcove Centre for the Arts
Alcove is a home for anyone who finds joy in art—whether you're a working artist, a hobbyist, an enthusiast, or someone simply looking for creative experiences. Check out the program schedule for events happening this summer.
Story City
Choose your own adventure with Story City, 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.
Shirley’s Greenhouse Farm Stand
Shirley’s Greenhouses is running a farm stand in Harley Hotchkiss Gardens every Friday from 2PM – 6PM this summer. Get some fresh local fruit, veggies, eggs and baked goods to kickstart your weekend!
When: Every Friday throughout the summer
Local on Stephen
Marketspot setting up shop on Stephen Avenue this spring and summer! Check out Local on Stephen every Thursday (11 AM - 6 PM) from May to September, as they turn Stephen Avenue into a lively marketplace celebrating and supporting local talent.
When: Every Thursday throughout the summer
Historic Stephen Avenue Guided Walking Tours
Discover the architectural gems, historic landmarks, and stories that have shaped this dynamic city on a guided walking tour that explores Stephen Avenue, Calgary’s National Historic District.
When: Every Thursday and Friday throughout the summer
Sled Island Music and Arts Festival
Each June, the five-day music and arts festival brings together a community of music, comedy, film and art as well as over 30,000 attendees across multiple venues, earning rave reviews from attendees, artists and media across the globe.
Much Ado About Nothing
From the team that brought you Riverona, Full Circle Theatre returns to its classical roots with Shakespeare’s most beloved battle of wits. Much Ado About Nothing follows quick-tongued exes Beatrice and Benedick as they get caught in a hilarious — and occasionally heartbreaking — game of gossip, romance, and revenge.
Block Party
Join Contemporary Calgary for a summer BLOCK PARTY as they celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day and Neighbour Day with an afternoon of live music, exhibition tours, and creative activations.
The Western Weekender
Head down to 17th Ave for a weekend full of vintage Western goods, local businesses, live music and a few surprises. Whether you’re prepping for Stampede or just love a good 17th Ave stroll, this event has something for everyone.
Getting downtown
Plan your trip
Over the summer festivals season, the downtown core will be very busy with events, road work and more people getting around. If you're driving, give yourself extra time to find parking and expect potential delays. You can plan your trip ahead by visiting Calgary.ca/PlanYourTrip.
Park safely and responsibly
Safe and legal parking helps avoid tickets, towing and unsafe situations for people walking, wheeling or driving nearby. Please remember to read and follow the signs before parking, even if it's a spot you're familiar with. You can manage your future parking sessions effortlessly by using the Parking Planner to book your parking in advance.
Save on parking with year-round deals
Parking downtown doesn't have to be expensive. Calgary Parking offers a variety of promotions throughout the year to help you save. Whether you're staying late, heading in early or planning a full day downtown, there are deals that make parking more affordable and convenient. Check out the Deals and Promotions page to see what's available.
Submit an event
If you have an event you would like added, please email: downtownevents@calgary.ca
with the subject: Downtown Summer Festivals.
*Please note, this page is updated regularly. The festivals and events listed are either organized, supported, or in good standing with The City of Calgary.