Summer is nearly here and you might be bracing for impact. With so many concerts and events, camping trips and vacations coming up, things are about to get expensive – luckily, there are plenty of FREE festivals and markets in Calgary that you can attend over the next few months.
Not sure what’s happening? Here are 10 to mark on your calendar!
LILAC FESTIVAL
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Love sun, fun, food and local vendors? Check out the annual Lilac Festival will return to 4th Avenue this June and it’s going to be bigger and better than ever.
When: Sunday, June 4th, 2023
Where: Between 12th Avenue South and Elbow Drive SW
Time: 10 am – 6 pm
EASY DAYS MARKET
Ready for another spring of shopping, guests and live performances? The Easy Days Market will return to the East Village with local goodies for all! Lace-up your shoes and don’t forget your sunscreen! It’s going to be a fun one.
When: Saturday, June 17th, 2023
Where: 618 Confluence Way SE
Time: 12 pm – 6 pm
THE FARMERS AND MAKERS MARKET
From foodies to fresh air enthusiasts, the Farmers and Makers Market is a must-visit this summer. Whether you’re shopping local or stopping by the grub truck, it’s likely to be well worth your time.
When: Wednesdays and Saturdays
Where: 1221 2 St SW, Calgary, AB | 1627 10 Ave SW, Calgary, AB
Time: See times above
THE CALGARY STAMPEDE – FREE DAYS
The Calgary Stampede can get pretty pricy… but if you plan ahead and wake up early, you can get in and enjoy concerts, shows and pancakes for FREE! Check out the link above for the best days to go to the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth this year.
When: Friday, July 7th – 16th, 2023 (see FREE days above)
Where: 1410 Olympic Way SE
FIESTAVAL LATIN FESTIVAL
From salsa lessons, a kid’s area and authentic Latin food vendors, to artisan and community vendors and a beer garden, Calgary’s annual Fiestaval will be one you won’t want to miss – especially because it too, is actually FREE to attend!
When: Friday, July 21st – 23rd, 2023
Where: Olympic Plaza – 228 8 Ave SE, Calgary
INGLEWOOD SUNFEST
Bouncy castles, local bands and street performances? This year’s Inglewood Sunfest will bring drinks, live entertainment and fun along with over 200 vendors and artists to the streets of Calgary. Talk about the perfect summer day in one of the hottest neighbourhoods.
Date: Saturday, July 29th, 2023
Location: 9th Avenue SE from 11th to 14th Street
Time: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
PET-A-PALOOZA
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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 29th – 30th, 2023
Where: Eau Claire Market – 200 Barclay Parade SW #202, Calgary
Time: Saturday 10 am – 4 pm | Sunday 11 am – 4 pm
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 3rd – 7th, 2023
Where: 311, 8th Street S
MARDA GRAS
Get ready to party, Calgary! Marda Loop’s big Marda Gras event returns this year with vendors, live music, performances and of course, their annual pet pageant. This is the area’s longest-running street festival so you can bet it’s going to be a ton of fun. They know what they’re doing!
When: Sunday, August 13th, 2023
Where: 33rd Avenue SW between 19th and 22nd Street
Time: 10 am – 5 pm
CALGARY PRIDE
Calgary’s Pride Festival is easily one of the most vibrant occasions of the entire year and many events are FREE to attend! From a parade to inspirational speakers, parties, and more, there are a ton of incredible things happening in and around Calgary in celebration of the LGBTQIA2S+ community so don’t miss it!
When: Saturday, August 26th – September 4th, 2023
Where: Various locations
Whew, there you have it, friends. 10 FREE festivals and markets in Calgary that you can attend over the next few months. Enjoy!
