Alright, we’re down to the wire, friends! Summer 2021 is nearing its calendar end and we don’t want you to waste any time! Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a shopaholic, prefer to hit a patio or are looking for something lower-key that you can do at your own pace, here are 22 different activities, events, and other things to do in Calgary before summer is over.
LET LOOSE AT CHASING SUMMER: FAMILY REUNION
Despite informing the public that this year’s concert series would not go ahead, Chasing Summer has announced that they’re back with the 2021 Family Reunion, a brand new concept that will completely take over Calgary’s Shaw Millenium Park for two whole days this August. Music, sun, fun and friends? Is there anything better?
When: Saturday, August 27th-28th
Where: 1220 9 Ave SW, Calgary, A
TAKE A DIP IN A SWIMMING HOLE
This summer has been an exceptionally hot one. The best place to hide away from the sun? Under the water! Grab your swim trunks, your flippy floppies and click the link above for a link to some extremely refreshing swimming holes in and around Calgary.
CATCH A WEEKEND SHOW AT CALGARY’S NEWEST OUTDOOR VENUE
It took some time but with a little elbow grease and a whole lot of love, the Calgary Municipal Land Corporation has reimagined Calgary’s 110-year-old Firehall No. 1 as a new vibrant outdoor music and arts venue. This summer check out a different show every Saturday as announced on the COC website!
When: Every Saturday
Where: 6th Avenue and 1st Street SE
Time: Times vary
SNAP A PIC OR TWO AT THE BOWDEN SUNMAZE
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There’s a really good chance you’ve seen photos of this iconic Sunmaze, and with good reason – there really is no other place like it! This month, when they’re in full bloom, wander the beautiful Sunflower fields of Bowden and snap a few pics in celebration of the warmer season.
When: Tuesday, August 12th
Where: 34530 RR#14 Red Deer County, Alberta
Time: 11 am – 5 pm
Cost: $7+
FLOAT THE BOW
Don’t feel like driving out to one of Alberta’s swimming holes?, Grab your pals, a dingy and some snacks then hit Calgary’s winding river. Before summer’s end, kick back and enjoy the warmth on your face and the water on your toes on an obligatory YYC adventure.
TAKE A BOOZE CRUISE OF LAKE MINNEWANKA
We’ve long said that the best way to experience the Rockies is with a drink in your hand and the wind through your hair. This summer, check out one of the area’s coolest (and most delicious) experiences – Pursuit’s Beer Voyage – a 90-minute scenic ride across the blue waters of Minnewanka where guests are encouraged to enjoy craft sips while the sun goes down.
When: Offered until September 26th
Where: Lake Minnewanka – Directions here
Cost: $46 +
GO GLAMPING
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Feel like going off the grid for a few days and lounging next to a fire? From the Sundance Lodges to Meska Outdoors, there’s honestly nothing more comfortable than an earthy amenity a few hiking trails, and some privacy. Check out the link above for some must-hit campgrounds in and around the province!
GET A HOLE IN ONE AT CALGARY’S BOOZY MINI-GOLF POP-UP
Grey Goose and mini-golf? Sounds like a great time to us! This summer, grab a polo, a visor, and your lucky putter then hit Fort Calgary for an incredible afternoon brought to us by the folks being the iconic vodka. Check out the link above to get your tickets now!
When: Wednesday, August 11th – 22nd
Where: 750 9 Ave SE, Calgary
Cost: $21
OOH AND AHH AT CALGARY’S GLOBALFEST
It’s back, Calgary! The city’s most explosive festival officially has dates set for 2021. Like the years before it, Calgarians will be able to cuddle up close in Elliston Park under a sky illuminated by stars and fireworks.IT really is magical.
When: Thursday, August 19th, 21st, 24th, 26th, and 28th
Where: 1827 68 St SE, Calgary, AB
Time: 6 pm – 11:30 pm
Cost: $21+
LOUNGE AROUND ON AN ALBERTA BEACH
From Jasper to Waterton, Alberta has some beautiful beaches. No, we don’t have coconut trees and year-round heat, but we do have sand and occasionally comfortable sun. Click the link above and see which provincial spots are our favourite!
GO DOWNHILL GO-KARTING
A little competition never hurt anybody, right? This summer, grab your friends, family or special someone and proceed with caution to Winsport Canada where you’ll be able to go head to head on their 1800 metres downhill go-kart track or their mini-putting green! The ‘loser’ buys the other a drink afterwards!
Where: 88 Canada Olympic Rd SW, Calgary
Cost: $24+
HIT ONE OF CALGARY’S OUTDOOR POOLS
With temperatures well into the 20s, city-slickers are still in need of somewhere to beat the heat and we just don’t think we’re all going to fit comfortably into the Bow. Before the end of this summer, why not consider checking out one of the many spray parks, outdoor or wading outdoor pools throughout Calgary?
ATTEND BANFF’S SUNSET FESTIVAL
We’ve all seen Banff from the ground, but have you watched the sunset over the mountain town from above? If your answer is no – this summer you should absolutely change that! Located on Sulpher Mountain, this entire experience is a 10 from start to finish. First, board the tram and ride it to the top, then grab and a brew while listening to live music and taking in the spectacular 360 views of the most beautiful place in Alberta.
When: Until September 9th
Where: 1 Mountain Avenue, Banff
Time: 5:30 pm – 9 pm
Cost: $45+
SHOP THE INGLEWOOD NIGHT MARKET
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The days are getting longer the nights are getting a little warmer, which can only mean one thing! Calgary, get ready because the Inglewood Night Market has officially set dates for summer 2021, and it all kicks off this month! As always this annual after-hours event will feature everything from handmade goods, crafts, vintage clothing, collectables and a ton more
When: Friday, August 13th, September 10th, 11th & 17th
Where: 10 Avenue & and 10th Street – 11th Avenue & 11th street
Time: 5 pm – 11 pm
GO SUMMER STARGAZING
Whether you put your feet on the dash and point your peepers through the sunroof or really commit to an evening with snacks and a picnic blanket, stargazing is a fail-safe date idea and an original way to chill with your friends. This summer, check out one of the many dark sky reserves in and around the city – the best of which are listed in the link above. You can thank us later!
TAKE A PEDAL PUB TOUR
Who said it wasn’t possible to drink and exercise at the same time? This summer, get a group together and pedal your way through Calgary’s inner-city hitting the best bars, pubs and breweries along the way! Book your trip now by checking out the link above.
When: See available dates here
Where: See available tours above
Time: See times above
Cost: $599
STROLL THROUGH NIKKA YUKO GARDEN
Lethbridge’s Iconic Japanese Garden is one of the most beautiful places in not just Alberta, but all of North America. This summer, grab the hand of someone special and wander through fields of flowers, trees and beautifully cut grass of Nikka Yuko!
Where: Corner of 9th Ave S &, Mayor Magrath Dr. S, Lethbridge
Cost: $8+
SUPPORT THEATRE CALGARY & SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK
A Calgary Classic! Shakespeare by the Bow is back again for a summer of tragic, comedic, and dramatic stories written by a literary genius – however, unlike year’s past, 2021’s event will take place all over the city. For more information check out the schedule above!
When: All August long
Where: See locations above
Time: See times above
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FILL A BASKET OR TWO AT A YYC U-PICK FIELD
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Strawberries, raspberries and saskatoons? this summer when the berries really begin to ripen, head to one of the many u-pick fields in and around Calgary and come home with a bucket full of fruit and a head full of memories. Could there be a sweeter way to spend a day? Need some ideas, just click that link above to find our picks!
DINE LIKE ROYALTY IN FAIRMONT BANFF’S 360° DOME
This summer, indulge outdoors in Fairmont’s new 360° Dome dining room – an unbeatable private venue with unreal food and a spectacular view. Located on their Upper Garden Terrace, the dome will feature a gourmet brunch, afternoon charcuterie, and an extravagant 5-course menu. Check out the pricing above!
When: Year-round
Where: 405 Spray Avenue Banff, AB
Time: See times above
Cost: $125+
MARKET NIGHTS – HERITAGE PARK
Every weekend until September 4th, Calgarians can spend an evening or two under the stars filling their bags with artisan goods and their stomachs with food and drinks from one of the attraction’s tasty eateries. From clothing to art, Heritage Park’s Night Market will practically have it all, making it what we can only describe as a ‘one-size fits all event,’ and it’s totally FREE!
When: Every weekend until September 4th
Where: 1900 Heritage Dr. S.W., Calgary
Time: Friday 5 pm – 9 pm and Saturdays 3 pm – 9 pm
Cost: Free
RE-CENTER WITH AN OUTDOOR YOGA CLASS
Is all of this sudden craziness too much for you? Every Sunday this month, inhale, exhale, stretch and sweat out the insanity at an incredibly relaxing Yoga class in Stanley Park. After all, there’s really no better way to spend an afternoon than by winding down and breathing in some fresh air with your toes in the grass.
When: Every Sunday
Where: 1300 12 Street Northeast
Time: 1 pm
Cost: Free
Well, there you have it, fam. 22 things to do in and around Calgary before summer’s over! Enjoy yourselves out there and be safe!
