The sunny season is nearly here and with another month finally upon us, we’re all eager to get out and about. Now, despite being able to ride on a high of suntans and warmer evenings, there is a downside to all of this and that’s the expenses. From a whole new wardrobe to patio beers, music festivals, and vacations, springtime can get a tad pricey – but fear not! There are a ton of ways you can enjoy yourselves in between all of your big-ticket events that’ll cost less than $20.
Here are just 10 FREE and cheap things to do this May.
VISIT A POP-UP GARDEN CENTRE
Exercise that green thumb of yours. With wholesale prices, 4 locations across the city, and expert staff, the popup glow gardens are back! This annual shopping event is familiar to many and beloved by plant enthusiasts and admirers – so we’d advise that you mark May 1st. their opening date, on your calendars!
When: Opens Sunday, May 1st
Cost: FREE
INDULGE IN LA PIZZA WEEK
We hope you’re hungry, Calgary! La Pizza Week is here and from Saturday, May 1st until the 14th, foodies will be encouraged to get down and get cheesy with fellow Za-fans all over the country. From coast to coast ovens will be hot and toppings will be plenty, with restaurants competing for your votes. Check out the link above to see the local restaurants participating in this year’s event!
When: Sunday, May 1st – 14th, 2022
Where: See link above
Cost: Prices vary
CHECK OUT A THEMED BAR
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Calgary has no shortage of bars, speakeasies, and cafes – but a spot with a whole theme in place? Those are a little harder to come by. From movies to destinations, we’ve put together a list of super cohesive locations where costumes are encouraged. Check it out!
Cost: FREE
STREAM A DOCUMENTARY
This month catch some incredible documentaries from all over the world right from your couch! Pop some popcorn and lose yourself in Mission: Joy, Mama Bears, and Who You Gonna Call – a film about Ray Parker, Jr., the artist behind the song “Ghostbusters”.
When: Thursday, May 5th – 15th
Where: Online here
Cost: $13+
SIP YOUR WAY THROUGH ALBERTA’S INTERNATIONAL BEER FESTIVAL
Still thirsty after hitting a themed bar? This May, like every year before it, Alberta International Beer Fest will once again, take YYC on an incredibly affordable booze cruise across the world. Consider our Ubers ordered and our hangover kits ready!
When: Friday, May 6th – 7th
Where: BMO Centre -20 Roundup Way, Calgary, AB
Cost: $19+
OR CHECK OUT CONTEMPORARY CALGARY
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Feeling artsy? This May, 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 maybe treat yourself to a coffee and a snack on the way there!
When: Open Wednesday to Sunday
Where: 701 11th Street SW
Cost: $10
RELAX IN AN ALBERTA HOTSPRING
Need a little RNR? We don’t blame you! The weather in Calgary has been wild, but one activity will put us at ease no matter how gloomy it gets. This May, pack up a bathing suit and check out one of Alberta’s beautiful hot springs or year-round pools. Hit the link above for our favorites!
Cost: Prices Vary
HIT THE GLENBOW MUSEUM’S SATTELITE EXHIBITION SPACE
Have you already hit Contemporary Calgary? Fear not – there’s more art to be seen! While there’s no stand-in for the real thing, Calgary’s Glenbow Museum’s FREE short-term exhibition space in the Edison comes pretty dang close, featuring art from all over the world and right here in Calgary.
Where: 150 9th Avenue SW, Calgary
Cost: FREE
HEAD OVER TO THE NATIONAL MUSIC CENTRE
A YYC favorite, Calgary’s iconic National Music Centre will be shifting to a pay-what-you-can admission model for weekend guests – so in addition to exploring five floors of exhibitions, you can catch regular weekend performances – for less. Check out the link above for more information!
Where: 850 4 St SE, Calgary, AB
Cost: Pay what you can
TAKE A HIKE
This May, don’t waste a ray of sunshine! As long as the weather continues to cooperate, why not treat yourself to a stunning spring hike in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains – after all, there’s really nothing better than a little fresh air! Check the link above for our favorites!
Cost: FREE
There you have it, folks. 10 of the best free and cheap things to do in Calgary this May. Now get out and enjoy yourselves! You deserve to have some fun!
