It’s finally here, friends! Summer 2022 is upon us and the city is kicking things off with a bang (quite literally.) From Canada Day fireworks and food festivals to the return of the greatest outdoor show on earth – this month is going to be bonkers and you won’t want to miss a beat. Not sure where to start? We don’t blame you! Here are just 50 of the very best things to do this July in Calgary.
EVENTS, MARKETS AND FOOD FESTIVALS
CHECK OUT THE SUMMER EVENT SERIES ON 17TH
From still walkers and aerialists, to drag royalty and local musicians – 17th Avenue will kick off its 2022 summer series with a ton of Canada Day events – then continue on throughout the summer with movies in the park, fitness classes and more. For a full itinerary, check out the link above and enjoy!
When: Friday, July 1st – September 21st
Where: 17 Ave. & 8 St. S.W, Calgary
SHOP THE 4TH STREET NIGHT MARKET
Another day, another market! This month, guests from all over the city are encouraged to head over to the community of Mission to shop, eat, drink and explore an iconic Calgary hot spot. Enjoy!
When: Thursday, July 9th
Where: 4th Street at Elbow Drive SW
Time: 4 pm – 10 pm
Cost: FREE
SHOP THE INGLEWOOD NIGHT MARKET
The days are getting longer the nights are getting a little warmer, which can only mean one thing! Get ready, Calgary, because the Inglewood Night Market is back for another month of fun, food and friends. As always this annual after-hours event will feature everything from handmade goods, crafts, vintage clothing, collectables and a ton more – so don’t miss it!
When: Friday, July 8th
Where: 10 Avenue & and 10th Street – 11th Avenue & 11th street
Time: 5 pm – 11 pm
WATCH THE CALGARY STAMPEDE PARADE
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What better way to kick off a major event than with a parade! This July, in order to celebrate the first day of the Greatest Show On Earth, check out the annual Calgary Stampede Parade – a must-see even featuring floats, performers and crowds of people.
When: Friday, July 8th
Where: See parade route above
Time: 9 am
GET THE SCOOP AT AN ICE CREAM FESTIVAL
From the folks who brought us YYC Hot Chocolate Fest comes a 9-day event of unique creations, fantastic flavours, and tasty toppings. For the first time ever, the 2022 Summer Scoop Fest will take Calgary by the cone – all in the name of a good cause.
When: Saturday, June 25th – July 3rd
Where: See locations here
SHOP THE STEPHEN AVENUE MARKET
Showcasing a ton of local vendors, food trucks, and artists, the Stephen Avenue Market will fill your bags (and your hearts) with memories, goodies, and unique pieces made right here in Calgary.
When: Tuesday, July 5th, 19th, 26th
Where: Stephen Avenue, Calgary
DUST OFF YOUR COWBOY HAT FOR THE 2022 STAMPEDE
YAHOOO! The midway, the food, the music, and the rodeo are back in action and honestly, after two years of wackiness, we could not be more excited. This summer giddy-up and hit the Stampede grounds in commemoration of the city’s resilient spirit – and our love for rides, deep-fried grub and denim.
When: Friday, July 8th – 17th
Where: 1410 Olympic Way SE
Cost: $23+
THEN SHOP THE EASY DAYS POP-UP
Its back! Set to take place again along the stunning East Village Riverwalk, the Easy Days pop-up market will not only shed some well-deserved light on Calgary artists and various artisan vendors, but it’ll also bring several performances by musicians and performers in every genre to the streets of Calgary, so save the date!
When: Saturday, July 30th
Where: 1300 12 St NE, Calgary
Time: 12 pm – 6 pm
HIT UP CALGARY’S FOLK FEST
With thousands of fans, Calgary’s Folk Festival is also expected to return with great music, good food and sunshine. For more information or to see this year’s lineup hit the link above!
When: Thursday, July 21st – 24th
Where: 698 Eau Claire Avenue SW, Calgary
Cost: $75+
CHECK OUT THE UNIVERSITY DISTRICT NIGHT MARKET
Get ready and stay ready! This month Calgarians can spend a relaxing evening under the stars filling their bags with goodies and gifts from various artisan vendors at the University District night market. Don’t miss it!
When: Wednesday, July 27th
Where: Retail Main Street Central Plaza, University District, Calgary
Time: 5 pm – 9 pm
Cost: FREE
SHOP THE FARMERS AND MAKERS MARKET
Whether you’re a foodie, love shopping local, or are just looking to get some fresh air – this artisan market will be THE place! Support the community in a safe and fun environment and grab some grub at the food trucks!
When: Every Saturday
Where: 1721 29 Avenue SW, Calgary
Time: 10 am – 2 pm
TAKE IN A BREATHTAKING VIEW FROM THE SUNSET FESTIVAL
Music, sunsets, beer and BBQ? This month, you’ll find all of this and more 7,400 ft up the side of Sulphur Mountain during the Banff Gondola Annual Sunset Festival. Do not miss this one, Calgary – it’s going to be something else.
When: Until September 5th
Where: 513 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1B4
Time: 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Cost: $49+
FIESTAVAL LATIN FESTIVAL
From salsa lessons, a kid’s area, and 25 authentic Latin food vendors, to their 70 artisan and community vendors and beer garden, Calgary’s annual Fiestaval will be one you won’t want to miss, especially because it’s actually FREE to attend!
When: Friday, July 22rd – 24th
Where: Olympic Plaza – 228 8 Ave SE, Calgary
Cost: Free
HAVE FUN IN THE SUN AT THE PET-A-PALOOZA
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Described as “THE social event for dogs and their people,” Pet-a-palooza has become a west-coast sensation with it taking over city streets in Vancouver, Victoria, and Calgary year after year. This summer, of course, is no exception, with organizers announcing the return of the furry shindig this sunny season.
When: July 23rd – 24th
Where: Eau Claire Market – 200 Barclay Parade SW #202, Calgary
PRETEND YOUR’E ON VACAY AT THE PLAYA PATRÓN EXPERIENCE
Leave your passport at home – because the beach is coming to us! This July. Calgary will see the grand opening of a pop-up beach club that’ll make you feel like you’re in beautiful Tulum, Mexico.
When: Thursday, July 28th – 31st
Where: Waterfront Park – 5225 101 Street NW, Calgary
Cost: $25+
TAKE IN A FILM OR TWO DURING THE FRINGE FESTIVAL
Featuring a series of Indie Films, Calgary’s Fring Festival returns in support of lesser know creators, and up and coming legends. Tickets go on sale on July 11th – so stay tuned for more information.
When: Friday, July 29th – August 6th
Where: Various locations
Time: Various times
ENJOY THE INGLEWOOD SUNFEST
Bouncy castles, local bands and street performances? This year’s Inglewood Sunfest will bring drinks, live entertainment and fun (along with over 200 vendors and artists) to the streets of Calgary. Talk about the perfect summer day in one of Calgary’s hottest neighbourhoods.
Date: Saturday, July 30th
Location: 9th Avenue SE from 11th to 14th Street
Cost: Free
ARTS, CONCERTS & CULTURE
ROCK ON AT THE STUDIO BELL THIS CANADA DAY
An instrument petting zoo, an all-request duelling piano show AND an afterparty hosted by The King Eddy? Canada Day is going to be action-packed at the National Music Centre this year – plus they’ll offering ‘pay-what-you-can’ admission! Check out the link above for more information and have fun, Calgary!
When: Friday, July 1st
Where: 300-851 4 Street SE, Calgary
Time: 10 am – 5 pm
Cost: Pay-what-you-can
WATCH THE CANADA DAY FIREWORKS
Don’t want to stay in one place for too long? The city of Calgary will have a ton of events happening all over the city this year. Kicking off at 11 am, check out Fort Calgary for an artisan market, food trucks, Metis jigging, open prayer, dancing, and resting of the flags. At 3 pm visit Olympic Plaza or St. Patrick’s island for live music, food trucks and more before they set the fireworks off at 9 pm.
When: Friday, July 1st
Where: Fort Calgary – 750 9 Ave. SE | Olympic Plaza – 228 8 Ave. SW | St. Patrick’s Island Park -1300 Zoo Rd. NE
Time: 11 am – late
Cost: FREE
HAVE A PSYCHEDELIC EXPERIENCE AT CALGARY’S TELUS SPARK
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Featuring 21 illuminated ‘caves’ spread over 11,000 square feet, check out Telus Spark’s new inflatable display, Luminarium. Bursting with colour and expression, this stunning installation is unlike anything that we’ve ever seen.
Where: 220 Saint George’s Drive Northeast
Cost: $29
CHECK OUT A RETRO ROLLER RINK
With the sun in the sky, Calgary’s Deerfoot city wants to let the good times roll – in the literal sense! This summer, lace into a pair of skates and glide the new retro roller rink at the third annual Block Party in partnership with the art-forward organization, PARK.
When: Friday, July 1st
Where: 901 64 Ave NE, Calgary
Cost: FREE
CELEBRATE DEFEAT AT THE MUSEUM OF FAILURE
If you don’t succeed, try, try, try again. Filled with everything from board games and skin care products, to vehicles and foods – browse and oggle flops from all over the world at the up-and-coming Museum of Failure.
When: Friday, July 1st to August 31st
Where: Southcentre Mall – 100 Anderson Rd SE
Cost: $18.99+
ENJOY LIVE MUSIC AT THE OXFORD STOMP
Featuring iconic Canadian rock band, Our Lady Peace, Serena Ryder, The Black Crowes, and up-and-coming singer/songwriter, Kyle Mckearney, Calgarians are in for an evening of genre-defying music and unforgettable performances at the 2022 Oxford Stomp. This year, like those before it, this event will be donating a portion of the proceeds to the Military Family Resource Centre so get your tickets and enjoy!
When: Friday, July 15, 2022
Where: Shaw Millennium Park, 1220 9th Avenue SW, Calgary
Cost: $120+
OR THE COWBOYS MUSIC FESTIVAL
One of Calgary’s most beloved Stampede-adjacent events, The Cowboys Music Festival is back! Featuring artists like Ludacris, Marshmello, Nelly, Flo Rida and more this year is going to be one of the best in recent memory, so check it out!
When: Thursday, July 7th – 16th
Where: 421 12 Ave SE, Calgary
Cost: $38+
COMMEMORATE THE FIRST EVER WHISKEY ROSE CONCERT SERIES
The only major party going down on 17th Ave, Whiskey Rose is bringing some top-tier Canadian artists for three straight nights of fun. Looking to take a break from the grounds? This will be the place. For more information check out the link above.
When: July 10th, 11th, and 12th
Where: 1012 17 Avenue SW
Cost: $30+
HIT THE NATIONAL SALOON
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Brand new for 2022, one of Calgary’s favourites is finally tossing its hat into the festival ring! National on 10th will be hosting a few concerts during the Stampede, with Ja Rule, Action Bronson, and more set to perform. Wanna get really crazy? We suggest DJ Pauly D, without a D (Doubt).
When: Thursday, July 7th to Friday, July 15th
Where: 330 11 Ave SW
Cost: $10+
CHASE THAT SUMMER FEELING
After last year’s devastating cancellation, Chasing Summer is also expected back in 2022. While there’s no word yet on a lineup, Calgarians can expect an all-star cast of characters similar to those in the past, bright lights and a ton of colour.
When: Thursday, July 30th – 31st
Where: 1001 Barlow Trail SE, Calgary, AB
ROCK ON AT THE ROUNDUP MUSICFEST
With a millennial-friendly lineup that consists of bands that really found their footing in the early to mid-2000s, Calgarians are encouraged to check out The Offspring, Young the Giant, The Strumbellas, and Said The Whale at Shaw Millennium Park this July.
When: Wednesday, July 13, 2022
Where: Shaw Millennium Park, 1220 9th Avenue SW, Calgary
Cost: $120+
OR THE BADLANDS MUSIC FESTIVAL
This July among all of the Stampede craziness, music lovers are encouraged to kick off their boots in exchange for some dancing sneaks. The Calgary Badlands Music Festival is back for 2022 with featured artists The Chainsmokers Troyboi and Don Toliver and tickets are on sale now! Check it out.
When: Thursday, July 7th – 17th
Where: 840 9 Avenue SW, Calgary
Cost: Tickets vary
CHECK OUT GLENBOW MUSEUM’S TEMPORARY GALLERY
Take a leisurely walk and support talented artists. This July check out Calgary’s FREE Glenbow Museum popup exhibition space at the Edison for Here to Tell: Faces of Holocaust Survivors, a commemorative photography exhibit that you won’t want to miss.
Where: 150 9th Avenue SW, Calgary
Cost: FREE
OR WALK YOUR WAY THROUGH CONTEMPORARY CALGARY
This month, wander Contemporary Calgary – a modern museum with wide-open spaces and many a tale to tell. The best part? Admission is only $10 – so go ahead and get that extra espresso shot in your coffee on the way there.
When: Open Wednesdays to Sundays
Where: 701 11th Street SW
Cost: $10 for GA
PLAY IN THE QUANTUM SANDBOX
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The first of its kind in Canada, Spark’s permanent digital art gallery has opened a brand new exhibit that will take you to a whole new dimension. This month, check it out and say bon voyage to reality.
When: Now open
Where: 220 St. George’s Drive NE, Calgary
Cost: Included in general admission ($26)
OUTDOORS AND IN THE MOUNTAINS
GO SUMMER SKIING
Despite the sun in the sky and grass below your feet, one of Banff’s favourite ski hills has announced that they’re reopening for a short time this summer. Check out the link above for more information and enjoy!
Where: 1 Sunshine access Rd, Banff
Time: 9 am – 3 pm
Cost: 59+
MAKE A SPLASH AT SYLVAN LAKE
Located just outside of Red Deer, Alberta, the Sylvan Lake Aqua Splash park is THE place for sizzling summer days. With launch pads, trampolines, an obstacle course, slides, a 15-foot tower, and more – this ginormous floating playground is truly one of a kind.
When: Opens July 1st, 2022
Where: Bay #1, 5100 Lakeshore Drive– Sylvan Lake, Alberta
CLIMB THE ROCKIES
This summer, face your fears and take a thrilling tour of the Rocky Mountains! This month, Albertans of all skill levels can swing, repel and climb their way through the beautiful backcountry with the help of a certified instructor. Why? How about why not!
When: Offered until October
Where: Box 2474 Jasper, AB Canada
Cost: $325
CLIMB ABOARD THE LAKE MINNEWANKA CRUISE
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Contrary to popular belief, you don’t actually have to travel to the edges of the continent to enjoy a cruise! This July, climb aboard an hour-long tour of one of Alberta’s most beautiful lakes for everything from dinner and drink tours to sightseeing sails.
When: May through October
Where: Lake Minnewanka, 10 mins outside Banff
Cost: $46 +
TAKE A HIKE
Now that the sun is out it’s important that we make the most of it! This month, as long as the weather continues to cooperate, why not treat yourself to a stunning summer hike in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains. Check the link above for our favourites!
SPOOK YOURSELF SILLY ON A BANFF GHOST TOUR
Halloween is still quite a few months away – but whos counting! This July, wince, cringe, mix and mingle and visit Banff’s most “active” sights on a ghoulish ghost tour through the town. It’s Are you Afraid of the Dark, meets, “oh, that’s where we had dinner.”
When: Offered until October 31st
Where: 333 Banff Avenue, Banff, AB
Cost: $32
FLOAT THE BOW
What’s the best way to cool off this July? Well by floating the Bow or the Elbow, of course! Grab your pals, a dingy, and some snacks then hit either of Calgary’s winding rivers. Kick back and enjoy the warmth on your face and the water on your toes on an obligatory summertime adventure.
WANDER THE COLUMBIA ICEFIELD SKYWALK
Do look down! Up above the world so high, Albertans are encouraged to explore the one-of-a-kind Columbia Icefield Skywalk. Experience a little bit of everything the Rockies have to offer from its wildlife, mountain views, cascading waterfalls, and history all from 918 feet in the air.
When: Open until October
Where: Icefields Pkwy, Improvement District No. 12
Cost: $25+
GET SOME FRESH AIR ON AN OPEN-TOP TOUR
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It’s back! This July, experience the Rockies unlike ever before with an Open Top Tour! From the backseat of a uniquely vintage vehicle, guests will learn about the area’s active wildlife, the area’s colourful history, and their fellow passengers with the help of an interpretive guide.
Where: See locations here
Time: See times here
Cost: $45+ / Adult
HAVE A PICNIC
Food and fresh air? Sounds like a plan to us! This month – pack a basket full of goodies, hit the link above link, and enjoy a bite to eat in one of our picks for Calgary’s best picnic-friendly gardens.
VISIT WITH THE ANIMALS AT COBB’S ADVENTURE PARK
This summer snuggle a kangaroo or two, go axe throwing and place a bet on a round of minigolf! Whether you check them out for one of their many adult nights or just go during regular hours, you and yours are bound to have a ton of fun at Cobb’s Adventure Park.
Where: 1500 84th Street NE, Calgary
Time: 11 am – 5 pm
Tickets: $19.75+
GO GLAMPING
Need a break from reality? Why not go totally off the grid and spend a few nights under the stars? This July, check out one of the many incredible glampsites in and around Alberta. It’s high time we all get some fresh air, don’t you think?
RIDE THE COASTER AT CALAWAY PARK
Looking to do something a little more fast-paced this summer? Adrenaline junkies are encouraged to ride the coaster or eat all the carnival food their stomachs can handle at Calgary’s Calaway Park which is now open to the public.
Where: 245033 Range Road 33, Calgary
HAVE A BEER ON A CALGARY PATIO
Finally, the warmer weather is here! If you’re like us, then you’re beyond ready to hit one of the many incredible patios in and around the city. Check out the link above for 10 of our favourite spots and enjoy!
RE-CENTER WITH AN OUTDOOR YOGA CLASS
Inhale, exhale, stretch and sweat at an all-ages free 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
FEEL THE SAND UNDER YOUR TOES AND VOLLEY
Calgary isn’t blessed with coastline beaches, palm trees, or consistent weather, but there are places we can go to forget that – and man, are we thankful. This summer, take off those shoes, rally your pals and get competitive at one of the city’s sandy volleyball courts.
RENT A SCOOTER AND CRUISE BANFF
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Can’t afford Italy – but long for Euro-type travel, scenic views, and historic streets? This season, rev a two-wheeler and cruise Alberta’s favourite national park on a unique scooter tour of the area. There’s really nothing like feeling the mountain wind through your hair.
Where: 327 Railway Avenue, Banff, AB
Cost: $50+
PARTY AT HOTEL ARTS
This summer, hit Calgary’s ultimate pool party destinations for sun, fun, and on occasion – live music! Re-opening to the public this summer (without its winterized top), Hotel Arts will be THE place to wind down and catch a tan on the weekends.
Where: 119 12 Ave SW Calgary, AB
And there you have it, 50 things to do in Calgary this July. Enjoy!
