A free Halloween carnival is set to transform one of Calgary’s busiest streets this October. The Carnival of Curiosities is taking over 17th Avenue and Tomkins Park for two days of Halloween programming, including a free dance party, carnival games, roaming performances, and trick-or-treating at more than 40 local businesses.

The event is open to all ages, and costumes are highly encouraged. Here’s a closer look at what’s planned for the weekend.

What to expect at the Carnival of Curiosities

What is the Carnival of Curiosities?

According to organizers, the Carnival of Curiosities is 17th Avenue’s Halloween celebration, taking place outdoors at Tomkins Park. Throughout the weekend, the area will transform into a Halloween-themed carnival with trick-or-treating, roaming performances, and glowing art. It’s designed for all ages and is completely free to attend.

What can I do on Friday?

Friday night kicks off with the Monster’s Ball from 8 to 11 p.m. The free outdoor dance party will feature a live DJ, roaming performances, aerialists, illusions and spooky acts from B!G ART and Le Cirque de la Nuit.

Costumes are encouraged, so this is a great chance to dress up and spend the night dancing.

What can I do on Saturday?

Saturday will have a full day of programming, starting in the afternoon and continuing into the evening. Here’s a look at the full schedule:

  • Carnival Classics
    • From 3 to 7 p.m., Tomkins Park will have classic carnival games set up, including the Clown Toss, Smack-a-Stack and basketball. TriXtan Entertainment will also roam the park with Halloween characters, so keep an eye out for them while you’re there.
  • Trick-or-Treat
    • More than 40 businesses along 17th Avenue will be handing out Halloween treats from 3 to 5 p.m. It’s also dog-friendly, so your four-legged trick-or-treater can come along for the afternoon.
  • Carnival After Dark
    • The festivities will continue back at Tomkins Park from 7 to 11 p.m. with Carnival After Dark. B!G ART and Le Cirque de la Nuit will return with aerialists, roaming performers and other Halloween entertainment.

What should I wear?

Since the event is outdoors, dress for October weather and wear something comfortable if you plan to spend the evening walking around. And of course, costumes are encouraged, but not required.

Do I need to register for the event?

Carnival of Curiosities is a free event, and no registration is required; all you have to do is show up and join in on the fun!

When is the Carnival of Curiosities?

The event will take place on Friday, Oct. 23 and Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026. Friday’s Monster Ball will run from 8 to 11 p.m., while Saturday’s programming runs from 3 to 11 p.m.

Where is the event being hosted?

The main events will be hosted at Tomkins Park on 17th Avenue SW, and Saturday’s trick-or-treating will take place at participating businesses along the Avenue.

Street parking is available around the area, but it can fill up quickly, so if you’re driving, arrive early to give yourself extra time to find a spot.

If you’re planning to take transit, several bus stops are located along 17th Avenue and 8th Street SW, just a short walk from the park. Check Calgary Transit’s trip planner before heading out for the most up-to-date routes and schedules.

Halloween on the 17th – A Carnival of Curiosities

When: Friday, Oct. 23 to Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026
Time: Friday: 8 to 11 p.m., Saturday: 3 to 11 p.m.
Where: Tomkins Park — 820 17th Ave. SW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Free

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Kaiya Williams

Kaiya is a Calgary-based writer and content creator with a background in marketing and digital storytelling. She has a passion for community-driven stories and covering local experiences that connect people.

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