April is nearly here and we cannot wait to get into it. This time around there are a ton of incredible experiences to be had in and around the city – but if you’re looking to do something more affordable, you’re in luck! From markets and meteor showers to museums and more here are 10 free and cheap things to do in Calgary this April.

Aggie Days

Animals, learning experiences, food, and more! Aggie Days are back at the Stampede grounds and it’s totally FREE to attend with your family. This April, check out the Nutrien Western Event Centre for a spring event, unlike any other.

When: Saturday, April 10th – 14th, 2024
Where: 1800 Stampede Trail SE, Calgary
Cost: Free

Contemporary Calgary 

This April, 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

Lyrids Meteor Shower

Looking for something romantic and affordable? As long as the sky is clear, Calgarians will be able to catch the Lyrid shower between April 15th to April 29th Want to double your chances? Maybe take a drive out of the city on April 22nd, the peak of the event.

When: April 15th – 29th, 2024 (Peak April 22nd, 2024)
Cost: Free

Banff Upper Hot Springs

Feeling stressed? You’re not alone which is why we recommend checking out Banff’s Upper Hot Springs. Overlooking the tiny mountain town this is the best way to wind down this season. Adults can check it out for just $16.50!

Where: 1 Mountain Ave, Banff, AB
Cost: $16.50+

The Calgary Underground Film Festival

 

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Pop some corn! Calgary’s Underground Film Festival will return this April for a celebration of incredible film, impressive writing, and local love. This upcoming month, catch one or ALL of their featured projects and enjoy!

When: Thursday, April 18th – 28th, 2024
Where: 617 8 Ave SW, Calgary
Cost: $10+

The Downtown Spring Market

Showcasing talented vendors and artists, the Spring Market will feature some incredibly unique items, goodies, and fantastic pieces made right here in Calgary. Enjoy!

When: Sunday, April 14th, 2024
Where: 11500 35 St SE #1000, Calgary
Time: 9:30 am – 3:30 pm
Cost: Free

Mirror Mirror

This April, and every day until the 14th, let your imagination run wild at Moment Factory’s latest adventure, ‘Mirror Mirror!’ Surrounded by colour and whimsical images, this immersive experience is not one to be missed.

When: Until April 14th, 2024
Where: 
6455 Macleod Trail, Calgary
Cost: $16+

Calgary Expo 2024

Featuring celebrity guests, reunions, local vendors, and more – the Calgary Comic Expo is back this April, bigger and better than ever! Tickets are on sale now, so don’t miss it! It’s going to be incredible.

When:  Thursday, April 25th – 28th, 2024
Where: 1410 Olympic Way SE, Calgary
Cost: $22+

Esker Foundation

Never been to the Esker Foundation Modern Art Gallery? You are in for a treat! This Month, check out locally sourced pieces and incredible exhibits all for free!

Where: The Esker Foundation, 1011 9 Ave SE 4th floor, Calgary, AB T2G 0H7
Cost: FREE

Alberta Hike

In need of a little fresh air? As long as the weather continues to cooperate, why not treat yourself to a stunning spring hike in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains? Check the link above for our favourites and enjoy!

And there you have it! 10 of the best FREE and cheap things to do in Calgary this April