It’s here! With another week behind us, not only is Friday hot on our heels – but fall has found its way back onto our calendar. Not sure how to kick it all off? We’ve got you! From markets and installations, here are 11 of the very best things to do in Calgary this weekend.
FLY HIGH AT THE HERITAGE INN BALLOON FESTIVAL
Last chance, folks! Air balloons are incredibly cool and probably on almost everyone’s bucket lists, regardless of the season. This weekend “oooh and ahh” while giant inflatables float peacefully overhead and get up close and personal with the balloons at The Heritage Inn Balloon Festival.
When: Until Sunday, September 25th
Where: MacLeod Tr SW, High River
Time: See times here
Cost: FREE
COLOUR IT FORWARD
Showcasing works of eight Indigenous artists, Calgarians are encouraged to check out ‘Colouring it Forward,’ a vibrant display that features supersized pieces of art – each of which represents a personal experience or interpretation of culture and the ongoing process of reconciliation.
When: Tuesday, September 20th – 30th
Where: 100 Anderson Road SE, Calgary
SINK YOUR TEETH INTO YYC PIZZA FEST
No matter the day or the occasion – we’re always in the mood for carby deliciousness covered in cheese and sauce. If you’re like us and just can’t get enough of the good stuff, unhinge your jaws because YYC Pizza Fest is coming, and with it, a spotlight on some of the city’s best thin crust, deep dish, topping-heavy restaurants, and their most inventive slices!
When: Until October 2nd
DISCOVER AN INDIGENOUS-OWNED BUSINESS
Next week, Canada will observe its second National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Established as a day of remembrance and reflection, this particular holiday is an opportunity to learn, uplift and support the indigenous community. One way of doing that is to shop and share local – not just on the 30th, but year-round. From food, clothing and jewellery – check out our list of indigenous-owned businesses in Calgary you should check out right now.
Where: Check this list out to get started
WANDER AN ALBERTA GHOST TOWN
This fall, there’s nothing spookier than exploring an abandoned (and possibly haunted) ghost town. From mining towns and mountain settlements to a town sitting at the bottom of a lake, this province is filled with historical hamlets from a time gone by.
EAT APPLE EVERYTHING AT GRANARY ROAD
This month, slip on a pair of booties then head over to one of Calgary’s favourite fun farms for Applefest, a pie-heavy day of ooey-gooey goodness, cinnamon and excitement. Featuring wild apple-based foods, jams, ciders and more this sweet festival, will not be one to miss. It’s going to be delish!
When: Saturday, September 24th – 25th
Where: 226066 112 St W, Foothills County, AB
WANDER AN AFTER-DARK PUMPKIN DISPLAY
It’s here! Halloween is only weeks away and this season we’re kicking things off with Pumpkins After Dark – a one-of-a-kind event featuring more gourds that you could bake, carve or bash in an entire lifetime.
When: Until October 31st
Where: 88 Canada Olympic Rd SW, Calgary
Time: See times above
Cost: $21.05
GET SPOOKY AT CALAWAY PARK
Looking to do something a little more fast-paced? Adrenaline junkies prepare yourselves because Calaway Park has announced the return of Halloweekend, a series of ‘terrifying’ events for you and the whole family. Mask up and head out for a full day of sun, fun, parades, witchy meet and greets and of course, cheap and delicious carnival food.
When: Weekends until October 10th
Where: 245033 Range Road 33, Calgary
Cost: $47.95+
‘FALL’ FOR HARVEST LIGHTS
You’re in for an evening of whimsy and illumination! Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, between now and until October 31st, the Calgary Farmyard and all of its attractions will stay open past 9 pm, giving you and your loved one more time to snuggle with their animals, get lost in their giant corn maze or challenge each other to a game of mini-golf in the colourful lights set up around the park.
When: Fridays to Sundays until October 31st
Where: 284022 Township Rd 224, Rocky Mountain County
Time: until 9:30 pm
Cost:: $19.95 +
SPONSORED PICKS:
CHECK OUT THIS YEAR’S HOTTEST FLICKS AT CIFF
Grab your tickets and strap in, Calgary! CIFF is back for its 23rd year, featuring over 200 films and special experiences. From now until October 2, CIFF is bringing audiences together for a truly remarkable and engaging cinematic experience, & there’s no doubt this year’s festival will be one to remember.
When: Now until October 2nd
Time: See times above
Cost: $13.50+
CHECK OUT BEAKERHEAD
Calgary’s beloved celebration of art, science and engineering is back this fall! Plus, admission is FREE for everything except the Dark Arts After Party. And if you know Beakerhead, you know tickets go FAST! So check the listings for this year’s party and make your plans now!
When: Friday, September 23rd – 25th
Where: Telus Spark, Century Gardens, The Dark Arts YYC and Dickens Pub
Cost: Almost all of the events this year are FREE! Tickets to the Dark Arts After Party are $15. Check their website for all the event details!
GET ZAPPED – EXPERIENCE PERMANENT JEWELLERY
Calgary’s Rubaiyat Gallery is hosting @theparklebaryeg for a permanent jewelry pop-up this weekend. If you’ve been interested in learning what the latest jewelry craze is all about, here’s your chance. Choose your chain, get custom fitted, and ZAP – instant sparkle that creates a forever bracelet (or as long as you want to wear it) . Walk-ins are welcome, but you can skip the line by booking an appointment @thesparklebaryeg.
When: Friday, September 23 & Saturday, September 24, 2022
Where: Rubaiyat Gallery, 722 17th Avenue SW, Calgary
Cost: Starting at $75
CHECK OUT THIS INCREDIBLE THEATRE PRODUCTION FOR DATE NIGHT
From now until October 2nd, immerse yourself in the incredible music and story of the iconic Billie Holiday at Theatre Calgary’s production of Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill! For those under 40, tickets are only $40 with code 40U40.
When: Now until October 4th
Where: Theatre Calgary
Cost: $40-$108
And there you have it, folks! 13 things to do in Calgary this weekend. Get out there, and enjoy!
