A new month is nearly here, friends – and with it, significantly warmer weather (we hope). Of course, this also means that some will be holding their wallets a little bit closer in anticipation of spring wardrobe shopping, upcoming vacations, and wedding season. For this reason, we’ve put together a list of cheap and FREE things to do in Calgary this April – because no one should have to choose between having fun and paying their rent. Enjoy!
EAT YOUR WAY THROUGH FILIPINO RESTAURANT MONTH
Hungry? Good! This April – until the 30th, Calgarians can visit one of the many restaurants participating in the first-ever Filipino Restaurant month – a celebration of traditional food and local businesses. In addition to this, customers will also be entered to win gift cards AND a trip, so check out the link above for more info and enjoy!
When: April 1st – 30th
Where: See above
OR ENJOY DINNER AND A VIEW
Still in the munchy mood? Cross your fingers for beautiful weather, and grab a bite where the views are 10/10. From mountain ranges, valleys, and lakes Alberta is home to some of the world’s most beautiful restaurants – and early spring is a great time to check them out.
GRAB A DRINK AT THE TIPSY PARROT RUM SHACK
Spring weather in Calgary can be unpredictable, so while we’re hoping for sunshine and double digits, snow and sleet are practically inevitable – but it’s not all bad! No matter what mother nature throws our way, Fairmont’s Tipsy Parrot Pop-up will make you feel like you’re on a tropical vacay with boozy sips, Caribbean snacks, and themed decor!
When: Tuesdays – Saturdays
Where: Boulevard-level Fairmont Palliser – 133 9 Ave SW, Calgary
Time: 5 pm – 10 pm
ENJOY AGGIE DAYS
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Spring has sprung and so has a Calgary favorite. This April, Aggie Days will return and it’s totally FREE to attend with your family. From opportunities to visit with the animals to Alberta vendors and more, you won’t want to miss this pre-Stampede event.
When: Wednesday, April 6th – 9th
Where: 1800 Stampede Trail SE, Calgary
Cost: FREE
SEARCH FOR A HIDDEN BAR
From bookcases to coca cola cooler doors, Calgary is home to a ton of hidden bars and speakeasies – each of which will offer you a seriously fun experience. This month, indulge in delightful drinks and maybe a bite or two, and tell us which is your favorite! Check out the link above for our faves.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
ROCK OUT AT THE BIG WINTER CLASSIC
It’s not over yet, folks! Calgary’s Big Winter Classic returns for two more weekends this April – and you won’t want to miss it. This month, check out bands, drink local beer, and support local artists at various venues throughout the city.
When: March 31st – April 2nd | April 8th – 9th
Where: See calendar above
Cost: $16.83+
CATCH A DAZZLING METEOR SHOWER
Look up! This month, as long as the clouds have parted, 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 the 22nd, the peak of the event.
When: Friday, April 15th – 29th (peak on Wednesday, April 22nd)
VISIT THE SASKATOON FARM SPRING MARKET
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Flowers, fruit, veggies, and self-care! This April, in celebration of the spring season, the Saskatoon Farm will be holding the 5h annual market featuring food, local vendors, live music, and more! The best part? It’s only $5 to attend.
When: Saturday, April 23rd – 24th
Where: 80181 338 Ave E #20, Foothills County, AB
Cost: $5
OR THE HONKY TONK MARKET
Yeehaww! This month, Whiskey Rose will be hosting their first-ever HONKY TONK Market. There’s no tickets or cover charge – just a good old market full of locally sourced and sustainable vendors! From 11 am-7 pm there will be $10 redneck mimosas, 15 vendors upstairs, and live music all day. Followed by the wicked 8 pm kickoff to their afterparty (which is all open to the public) featuring the WINE SOAKED PREACHERS.
When: Saturday, April 23rd
Where: 1012 17 Ave SW, Calgary
Time: 11 am – 7 pm
Cost: FREE
VISIT THE GLENBOW MUSEUM’S SATTELITE EXHIBITION SPACE
It’s nearly that time, art lovers. Though there’s no stand-in for the real thing, Calgary’s Glenbow Museum will finally open its FREE short-term exhibition space in the Edison which will feature incredible pieces from all over the world.
Where: 150 9th Avenue SW, Calgary
CROSS THE KANANASKIS SUSPENSION BRIDGE
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High above the rocks and trees of Alberta’s Peter Lougheed Park is a secret overpass just as impressive (and stomach-turning) as any other swinging aqueduct. Located only 1 hour and 30 minutes from the city of Calgary, Blackshale Suspension Bridge is just the spot to take your next mountain adventure to new heights. Why not check it out this April??
Where: Black Prince Cirque Trail – Black Prince parking, Kananaskis, AB
ENJOY THE NATIONAL MUSIC CENTRE
Learning – without any limitations! This month Calgary’s iconic National Music Centre will be shifting to a pay-what-you-can admission model for weekend guests! In addition to exploring five floors of exhibitions, you can catch regular weekend performances – it’s all included with the admission of your choosing. Check out the link above for more information!
Where: 850 4 St SE, Calgary, AB
Cost: Pay what you can
TAKE A SPRING HIKE
The sun is out (for now), and it’s high time that you get some fresh air! This month, 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 favorites!
WANDER CONTEMPORARY CALGARY
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Another season is here, which means new featured artists are being featured at Contemporary Calgary – a modern museum with wide-open spaces and many a tale to tell. The best part? Admission is only $10 – so get a coffee, grab a friend and enjoy!
When: Open Wednesday to Sunday
Where: 701 11th Street SW
Cost: $10 for GA
UNLEASH YOUR FURRY FRIEND AT A YYC DOG PARK
Whether you’re looking to bond with your furry pal, get some exercise, or just to pup watch, there’s really nothing better than grabbing a coffee and wandering one of Calgary’s dog parks! Not sure which one you should check out? Click the link above for our favorites.
There you have it, folks. 15 free and cheap things to do in Calgary this April. Now get out and enjoy yourselves! You deserve to have some fun!
