Downtown Calgary is transforming into a vibrant, 24/7 destination and The City, alongside our partners, is leading that momentum. Through dynamic programming, playful pop ups, cultural activations and reimagined public spaces, we’re creating experiences that bring people together and support a safer, more welcoming downtown.

Since 2022, we’ve delivered more than 2,000 days of programming (and counting), sparking positive activity, increasing foot traffic and strengthening the sense of comfort and community in the heart of the city.

Explore the programs bringing downtown to life and join the action.

River Hall

River Hall returns as a vibrant, free urban destination in downtown Calgary, transforming a parking lot into a lively community space with local food and drink vendors, shaded picnic zones, family‑friendly activities, and open views of the Bow River. Ten signature shipping containers host everything from craft beer and coffee to fried chicken, ice cream, and vegetarian options, with dogs welcome too.

This summer brings expanded greenspace, enhanced amenities like the washroom attendant program, fresh local produce from Shirley’s Greenhouse on select dates, and extended four‑day‑a‑week programming featuring free workshops, wellness activities, pop‑ups, and live music, all designed to add even more vibrancy to downtown.

• When: July 23 – Sept. 27 
  
  • Thursday – Friday: 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. 
    
  • Saturday – Sunday : 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
• Who: All ages, free and pet-friendly
• Where: Lot 6 (311 Eighth St. S.W.)
• More information: For the full lineup of events, visit www.riverhallyyc.com or follow @riverhallyyc on Instagram.

Kickstart Commons (Downtown Lot 83 Revitalization)

In collaboration with the Parks Foundation and the Calgary Downtown Association, Kickstart Commons will revitalize Lot 83 (940 Eighth Ave. S.W.) in Downtown West, turning an underused parking lot into a youth friendly sport and recreation hub designed for a growing, diverse neighbourhood. Anchored by a flexible mini soccer pitch, the space invites casual play, skill building, and community led programming. It responds directly to the needs of a young population who might have limited access to affordable recreation close to home. As new residential developments and office to residential conversions bring more people into the area, Kickstart Commons will create more opportunities for physical activity, social connection, and everyday outdoor life.

For more information regarding the project including timelines, please visit Kickstart Commons | Parks Foundation Calgary.

SURGE CITY Hoops Summer Series

Calgary Surge & The City are back for another summer of FREE youth basketball clinics led by Calgary Surge players and coaches and supported by the Centre for Newcomers.  Don’t miss your shot — grab your friends, hit the court and be part of the action downtown.

• When: June 2 – Sept. 12
  
  • Tuesdays and Thursdays: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. 
    
  • Saturdays: 10 a.m. – noon
• Who: Youth ages 8-17 
• Where: Century Gardens Basketball Courts (826 Eighth Ave. S.W.)
  
• More court time: Don’t miss a weekend-long SURGE CITY 3-on-3 tournament  September 12-13 — more details coming soon! 

Please note that coaching clinics may be cancelled if weather conditions are unsafe, and the organizer will contact you by email if that happens.

Soccer City FC - Presented by Cavalry FC & Calgary Wild FC

Free youth soccer is taking over Peace Park this summer, bringing high-energy, high-quality programming right to the heart of downtown! Whether your child or teen is trying soccer for the first time or building on their skills, these free programs offer a fun, positive, and accessible way to stay active and connected all summer long.

Delivered in partnership with The City, Cavalry FC, Calgary Wild FC, Calgary Minor Soccer Association and the Centre for Newcomers, this initiative creates meaningful opportunities for young people to learn, play, and thrive. With coaching led by Cavalry FC and Calgary Wild FC, participants get top tier instruction at no cost, learning from the pros, building confidence, and experiencing the joy of the game in a supportive environment. 

• When: June 7 – Sept. 20, most Sundays
• Who: Youth ages 8-17 
• Where: Peace Park (Second Ave. and Eighth St. S.W.)

Please note that coaching clinics may be cancelled if weather conditions are unsafe, and the organizer will contact you by email if that happens.

World Cup Watch Parties

Story City

Discover downtown Calgary like never before. Solve secret missions, hunt hidden doors, battle shadow monsters, and more.

Download the free Story City App and immerse yourself in choose-your-own-adventures.

Each story, created by local artists, unfolds across landmarks and hidden gems. Use your surroundings to crack puzzles and unlock the next thrilling chapter.

Grab the app, hit the streets, and turn downtown into your personal playground.