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.
JazzYYC and NMC Present: ARTEMIS
At the heart of this dynamic group are two of Canada’s most celebrated jazz artists, pianist Renee Rosnes and trumpeter Ingrid Jensen, both internationally recognized as among the best in the world.
The Sidewalk Series
Introducing a brand new component of our annual Summer on 17th lineup - local talent popping up in unexpected places, kicking off on June 25.
Plus 15 Pop up Gallery
ART SPOT is bringing a dynamic pop-up gallery to the downtown Core featuring the works of dozens of local artists. Stop by and discover the art, learn about ART SPOT and connect with your local arts community!
When: June 25 - July 18
The Market on Stephen Avenue
Grab your friends and family and venture downtown to see what’s new on Stephen Avenue. Support local businesses and find your new favourite treats, breweries, stores and more.
When: June 23
JazzYYC and NMC Present: Molly Johnson
Experience the incomparable Molly Johnson, a celebrated jazz vocalist whose rich, soulful tone and magnetic stage presence have captivated audiences across Canada and Europe for decades.
Bow After Hours: Gettin' Fishy With It
At “Gettin’ Fishy With It”, we dive deep. Take a plunge into all things fish — from habitats to lifecycles and adaptations. We’re taking you on a journey from eyed egg to whitewater warrior.
Kensington Night Market
The Kensington Night Market is back for its fifth year, with live entertainment and local vendors.
When: June 26, July 10 & 24, August 7 & 21, September 4 & 18
Richard Bona Live
Richard Bona is a Grammy Award-winning musician and one of the most accomplished international bassists, composers and multi-instrumentalists.
Sound Atlas Music Festival
Kick off the Summer with the joyously vibrant Sound Atlas Festival where whimsy meets the unexpected in this year’s Sonic Playground, bringing together the best of contemporary music and leading artists, ensembles and composers.
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.