Markets and festivals you can attend for FREE in Calgary this sunny season

Sunny season is here – but it shouldn’t cost you! Whether you’re saving up for a music festival, a trip or the Stampede there are a ton of exciting events that will save you the big bucks.

Want to plan ahead? Here are just a few festivals and markets you can attend for FREE in Calgary in the coming months.

Easy Days

Sun and fun! This season hit the East Village Riverwalk for the big Easy Days pop-up market! Featuring Calgary artists and various artisan vendors,  guests can enjoy performances and local goodies!

When: Saturday, May 19th, June 15th, 2024
Where: East Village River Walk
Time: 12 pm – 5 pm
Cost: Free

University District Night Market

Check it out! This spring Calgarians can spend an eventful evening under the stars at the University District Night Market! Showcasing various artisan vendors from all over the city.

When: Wednesday, May 29th, 2024
Where: Central Commons Park, 4019 University Ave NW
Time: 5 pm – 9 pm
Cost: Free

The Inglewood Night Market

Stroll after dark! This season, vendors from all over the city will take Inglewood for their beloved night market! With a beer garden, food trucks, live music, and so much more. You will not want to miss it! Enjoy!

When: Friday, May 10th and June 7th, 2024
Where: 10 Ave and 10 Street SE
Time: 5 pm – 10 pm
Cost: Free

Lilac Festival

They’re back! With food, live music, drinks, local vendors, and sun, the annual Lilac Festival is one of the most anticipated events of the season. As always, it’s going to be huge!

When: Sunday, June 2nd, 2024
Where: Between 12th Avenue South and Elbow Drive SW
Time: 10 am – 6 pm
Cost: Free

Fiestaval Latin Festival 

Food fun and salsa dancing?! Calgary’s annual Fiestaval will be one you won’t want to miss – especially because it too, is FREE to attend! Mark your calendar and enjoy everything from vendors to the beer garden.

When: Friday, July 19th – 21st, 2024
Where: Olympic Plaza – 228 8 Ave SE, Calgary
Time: 11 am
Cost: Free

Inglewood Sunfest 

Back again, those who attend the Inglewood Sunfest can enjoy everything from drinks, live entertainment and vendors! Talk about the perfect summer day in one of the hottest neighbourhoods.

Date: Saturday, July 27, 2024
Location: 9th Avenue SE from 11th to 14th Street
Time: 11 am – 7 pm
Cost: Free

Pet-a-palooza

Described as “THE social event for dogs and their people,” Pet-a-palooza has become a west-coast sensation with it taking over city streets in Vancouver, Victoria, and Calgary year after year. This year, of course, is no exception, with organizers announcing the return of the furry shindig this sunny season.

When: Saturday, July 27th – 28th, 2024
Where: Eau Claire Market –  200 Barclay Parade SW #202, Calgary
Time: 11 am – 4 pm
Cost: Free

Taste of Calgary

Love food? Explore global cuisines from all over the world through an eclectic mix of restaurants and beverage companies at the Taste of Calgary! Though sample tickets will be $1 each, this event is FREE to attend so check it out!

When: Thursday August 1st – 5th 2024
Where: 311, 8th Street S, Calgary
Time: 11 am
Cost: Free to attend

Marda Gras

Calgary’s longest-running street festival! Marda Loop’s big Marda Gras event returns this year with vendors, live music, performances and of course, their annual pet pageant. 

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

Calgary Pride

One of the most vibrant events in Calgary! From a parade to inspirational speakers, parties, and more, there will be tons of incredible things happening in celebration of the 2SLGBTQ+ community this summer. Don’t miss it! 

When: Monday, August 31st – September 1st, 2024
Where: Various locations
Cost: Free+

Whew, there you have it. Festivals and markets you can attend for FREE in Calgary. Enjoy!