Photo via Carifest Calgary/MoorePix.ca
Calgary has a reputation as a wonderfully multicultural city, and rightfully so. It’s the third-most diverse major city in Canada, home to over 240 different ethnic origins with 165 languages spoken. Such a population means that Calgary has a vibrant cultural scene, with a wide range of art, cuisine, innovations, and communities.
Many of these groups celebrate their cultures at festivals in Calgary, where everyone is welcome to attend. After all, humanity is at its best when we respect, appreciate, and love our neighbours. Here are some events and festivals to keep an eye out for this summer.
Otafest is Calgary’s premier all-ages Japanese anime and pop-culture festival. Enjoy three days of anime screenings, community panels, cosplay contests, and more.
When: May 16 to 18, 2025
Where: Calgary Telus Convention Centre & Marriott Downtown Hotel – 136 8th Ave. SE
Cost: $58.69+ for adults
This festival is dedicated to amplifying Black voices and perspectives through a medium that brings all sorts of people together — cinema. Go for a movie, and leave with a different way of looking at the world.
When: May 24 to 28, 2025
Where: Globe Cinema — 617 8th Ave. SW
Cost: $15.10+
The Ukrainian Festival preserves cultural heritage and honours the hard work of the Ukrainian immigrants and refugees who have made Calgary home recently and throughout history. Swing by to enjoy traditional song and dance, delicious food, the finest Ukrainian beer and vodka.
When: June 7 and 8, 2025
Where: Acadia Recreation Complex — 240 90 Ave. SE
Cost: $5
This vibrant festival promotes cross-cultural experiences for all by introducing Calgarians to the finest aspects of contemporary and traditional Mexican culture. This includes performances, food vendors, markets, and real luchadores throwing down in the new Eau Claire Plaza.
When: June 4 to 6, 2025
Where: Eau Claire Plaza — 200 Barclay Parade SW
Cost: $10 or free admission on Friday from 10:30 a.m. to noon
Foodies, this one’s for you. Taste of Calgary is the prime opportunity to sample Calgary’s global cuisines through a mix of unique restaurants and beverage companies. Get your sample tickets in advance and start mapping out your game plan.
When: July 31 to August 4, 2025
Where: Lot 6 — 4th Avenue and 9th Street SW
Cost: Free admission, taste tickets $1 each
It’s Calgary’s most explosive festival for a reason. Five days of fireworks from across the globe are supplemented with pavilions, performances, international food, and more. Trust us — you’ve never seen fireworks quite like this.
When: August 14 to 23, 2025
Where: Elliston Park — 1827 68th St. SE
Cost: $21.92+
Look no further for the ultimate celebration of Caribbean culture, music, and vibes. Parades, concerts, and incredible eats are just a few of the aspects that make this three-day festival a must-attend event for Calgarians.
When: August 15 to 17, 2025
Where: Multiple venues in Calgary
Cost: Free, with some ticketed events
This one-day event features cultural sharing, local vendors, food, live performances, and activities for the whole family. Plus, it’s pet-friendly and free to attend.
When: August 16, 2025
Where: 202 2nd Ave. SE
Cost: Free
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