Categories: Things To Do

12 of the best FREE and cheap things to do in Calgary this August

July has nearly come and gone – but there’s plenty of summer fun to be had! This month, there are plenty of exciting things happening in and around the city – the best part? Many of them are less than $20! Not sure where to start? Here are 12 of the best FREE and cheap things to do in Calgary this August.

 Fringe Theatre Festival

An “anything goes” experience! The 2024 Calgary Fringe Theatre Festival has returned and tickets are on sale now! Check it out and support local creators. More information can be found at the link above.!

When: Friday, August 2nd – 10th, 2024
Where: Various locations
Time: Various times
Cost: Free+

YYC Ice Cream Fest

Last chance! This month, indulge in unique creations, fantastic flavours, and tasty toppings at the 2024 YYC Summer Scoop Festival!

When: Friday, July 19th – August 5th, 2024
Cost: Free

Inglewood Night Market 

This sunny season, support vendors from all over the city at the Inglewood Night Market! Here, you can check out their beer garden, food trucks, and live music. Enjoy!

When: Friday, August 9th, 2024
Where: 10th Ave and 10th Street SE
Time: 5 pm – 10 pm
Cost: Free+

Movie on The Rise: Wonka 

This August, enjoy a Movie on the Rise in Calgary – a family-friendly experience that shouldn’t be missed by fans of fresh air, cinema, and making memories. This year’s film? Wonka starring Timothée Chalamet (Dune)

When: Thursday, August 22nd, 2024
Where: Directions here
Time: 8 pm
Cost: Free

Heritage Park Market Nights

Spend an evening under the stars and shop, shop, shop! This August you and yours are encouraged to enjoy the food, drinks, and shops at Heritage Park’s 2024 Night Market.

When: Saturday, August, 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st, 2024
Where: 1900 Heritage Dr. S.W., Calgary
Time: 3 pm – 9 pm
Cost: Free

Taste of Calgary

A Calgary favourite has returned. This August, Calgarians will get to explore global cuisines from all over the world through an eclectic mix of restaurants and beverage companies! We have a feeling this year will be a good one, so don’t miss it.

When: Thursday, August 1st – 5th, 2024
Where: 311, 8 Street SW
Cost: Free+

4th Street Night Market

Love to shop? Guests from all over the city are encouraged to head over to the community of Mission to explore an iconic Calgary hot spot. Enjoy! It’s going to be a blast.

When: Saturday, August 17th, 2024
Where: Central Memorial Park, Calgary
Time: 5 pm –10 pm
Cost: Free Admission

Perseid Meteor Shower

Whether you put your feet on the dash and point your peepers through the sunroof or really commit to an evening with snacks and a picnic blanket, stargazing is a must this August. This Month, check out one of the many dark sky reserves in and around the city and take in the year’s most magical meteor shower.

When: Peaks on August 12th, 2024
Time: After sunset
Cost: Free

GlobalFest

Miss the Stampede Fireworks? You’re in for a treat because Calgary’s GlobalFest will return this month to fill the sky with vibrant colours. From music, beer, food and choreographed pyrotechnics – we’re ready and waiting!

When: Thursday, August 15th – 24th, 2024
Where: 1827 68 St SE, Calgary – Elliston Park
Cost: $19.50+

Marda Gras 

Another year of fun, sun and Marda Gras! Showcasing vendors, live music, performances and the annual pet pageant, Marda Loop’s huge event is back and you better be ready to party! It’s going to be a ton of fun.

When: Sunday, August 11th, 2024
Where: 33rd Avenue SW between 19th and 22nd Street
Time:  10 am – 5 pm
Cost: Free

Discovery Canyon

This August, hit Discovery Canyon and sail the lazy river, splash around, hang on their beach, or have a picnic! It’s free to visit!

Where: 3800 River Bend Drive Red Deer County, Alberta
Cost: Free + $6 tube rentals

Calgary Pride 

From a parade to inspirational speakers, dance parties, and so much more, Calgary’s Pride Festival is one of the most vibrant events of the year. There are going to be a ton of incredible events happening so stay tuned! It’s going to be amazing!

When: Monday August 26th – September 1st, 2024
Where: Various locations
Cost: Free+

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