Photo via Marda Loop BIA
This summer has brought plenty of rain to the city, and it’s not expected to let up for the upcoming August long weekend. Even though things have been soggier than expected, there’s still plenty to see and do in and around Cowtown. Here’s our list of August events we can’t wait to attend.
Enjoy classic films, vintage carnival vibes and summer nights under the stars. Midway & a Movie at Heritage Park is your ticket to adventure, nostalgia and thrills. On Aug. 23, step into the wizarding world with Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, perfectly paired with Antique Midway rides, popcorn, mini donuts, and retro charm.
When: Aug. 23
Where: 1900 Heritage Dr. SW, Calgary
Cost: $24.95
The 19th edition of the annual festival will bring the wacky, wild, and weird to YYC. Featuring digital and in-person theatre, comedy, and art installations, Fringe Fest shows will run all week long at locations throughout Calgary.
When: Aug. 1 to Aug. 9
Where: Various locations
Cost: $20+
Get lost in the world of YYC BUMP! This festival will transform Calgary’s downtown core into hallways of colour. From Aug. 1 to Aug. 18, YYC BUMP will host a series of events ranging from underground parties to walking tours exploring how civic identity is constructed and contested through public space.
When: Friday, Aug. 1 to Monday, Aug. 18
Where: Various locations through downtown YYC
Cost: Free
Get ready to chow down at Calgary’s most appetizing festival. The highly anticipated Taste of Calgary food festival is back July 31 to Aug. 4. This free-admission event is every foodies’ dream, giving you the chance to sample the best eats, drinks, and music the city has to offer.
When: July 31 to Aug. 4
Where: 311 8th St. SW, Calgary
Cost: Free; $1 per taste ticket
Purchase here
Long live the blues! Get grooving to great riffs and moving live performances by some of the city’s top blues musicians. From legends to rising stars, this celebration of music at the Confluence will bring together some of the most talented performers in the genre.
When: July 31 to Aug. 3
Where: The Confluence — 750 9th Ave. SE
Cost: $50+
Purchase here
This is about as close as we can get to reliving the iconic Tour de France in Calgary. Tour de Bowness has quickly become a premier amateur cycling race in Western Canada. The iconic Criterium course is a 1 km circuit with seven tight turns that swerve through prime viewing spots in downtown Bowness. With food trucks, artisan vendors, street performances and live music, this fest is all about celebrating the vibrant history, community spirit, and character of our beloved Bowness.
When: Aug. 2 to Aug. 4
Where: Bowness, various locations
Cost: Free
Get ready for the ultimate celebration of Caribbean culture, music, and vibes. Carifest Calgary promises an unforgettable weekend of vibrant festivities designed to educate and celebrate Caribbean cultural heritage.
When: Aug. 15 to Aug. 17
Where: Various locations
Cost: Free
Celebrate Inglewood community spirit at this modern market. A host of local vendors will sell diverse goods from handmade crafts to vintage clothing, antiques, collectibles and artisan eats.
When: Aug. 8
Where: 10th Avenue to 10th Street SE
Cost: Free
This free, family-friendly event in Marda Loop is also the longest-running street festival in Calgary. Experience local shopping, arts and culture programming, and a pedestrian-friendly celebration down 33rd Avenue SW.
When: Aug. 10
Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 33rd Avenue SW — between 18th and 22nd Street
Cost: Free
This annual celebration of Calgary’s multi-cultural communities features awe-inspiring fireworks shows, exciting cultural performances and international food.
When: Aug. 14 to Aug. 23
Where: Elliston Park — 1827 68 St. SE
Cost: $25+
Celebrate the diversity of 2SLGBTQIA+ identity at the annual Calgary Pride Parade and Festival! This year’s parade route will run west down 9th Avenue SE, from Studio Bell to 5th Street SW on Aug. 31. Two full days of festival event programming will include drag and live music performances on Aug. 30 and Aug. 31 at Prince’s Island Park.
When: Aug. 30 to Aug. 31
Where: Various
Cost: Free
Whether you’ll be sashaying your way across streetside festivals, serving your best look at the city’s annual Pride parade, or celebrating the multi-cultural diversity of our city, Calgary will be waiting this August!
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