Photo via Jeff Whyte / Shutterstock.com
Dust off your boots! One of the most exciting months of the year is here and with it, a ton of exciting (and affordable) events.
Don’t want to spend more than $25 to enjoy some fun in the sun? Here 20 of the best FREE and cheap things to do in Calgary this July.
You scream, we scream! Featuring unique creations, fantastic flavours, and tasty toppings the YYC Summer Scoop Festival will continue into July, all in the name of a good cause.
When: Friday, July 19th and August 5th, 2024
Cost: Free
Oh, Canada! This upcoming Canada Day, check out Calgary’s annual fireworks display happening at Stampede Park. Bring lawn chairs, snacks and your loved ones, then get ready to celebrate!
When: Monday, July 1st, 2024
Where: Various locations
Cost: Free
If July 1st rolls around and you choose to stay out of the sun, you can check out Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre, where admission will be FREE thanks to ATB Financial.
When: Monday, July 1st, 2024
Where: 850 4 St SE, Calgary, AB
Cost: Free
Described as “a family-oriented, multicultural arts and entertainment festival highlighting the Mexican Culture,” this four-day extravaganza kicks off this July. From the 4th to the 7th, enjoy live performances, luchador wrestling, authentic food and drink, an artisan market and a kid’s area – you’re going to have a blast.
When: Thursday, July 4th – 7th, 2024
Where: 311 8 St SW Along the river pathway on the corner of 4th Ave and 9 Street
Cost: Free
Hold on tight, spider monkey! Located in Red Deer Alberta, Canyon Ski Resort is an action-packed destination with Alberta’s first and only alpine coaster and the longest summer tube slide in Western Canada! Check it out when it opens on June 22nd.
When: Saturday, June 22nd, 2024
Where: 38433 Range Road 264A, Red Deer, Alberta
Cost: $5+
It’s back! In order to celebrate the first day of the Greatest Show On Earth, check out the annual Calgary Stampede Parade – a must-see event featuring floats, performers and crowds of people.
When: Friday, July 5th, 2024
Where: Downtown Calgary – see route here
Time: 9 am (prelude starts at 7:30 am)
Cost: Free
YAHOOO! The midway, food, music, and the rodeo of the Calgary Stampede are back in action and if you plan it right, you can enjoy it for FREE. This summer giddy up and hit the Stampede grounds on one of the days listed above and enjoy an affordable day outside.
When: Friday, July 5th, 7th, 9th, 10th, 2024 (entry times vary)
Where: 1410 Olympic Way SE
Cost: Free
Held in support of the CIBC Run for the Cure every year, this delicious event will feature more pink pancakes, more live entertainment, and more activities than ever before.
When: Wednesday, July 10, 2024
Where: 100 Anderson Rd SE, Calgary
Time: 9 am – 11 am
Cost: Free
Showcasing live music, 135 talented vendors, food trucks, and a beer garden, the Inglewood Night Market will return this July, then once in August and in September to wrap up the season.
When: Friday, July 12th, 2024
Where: 10 Ave and 10 Street SE, Calgary
Time: 5 pm – 11 pm
Cost: Free
This July, those looking for a day of fun and sun are encouraged to check out Winsport’s 18-hole course. Good luck and enjoy.
Where: 168 Canada Olympic Rd SW, Calgary
Cost: $13+
Let’s go Stamps! This July, grab a beer and a jersey then cheer Calgary’s team to victory at McMahon Stadium! For more information or to snag some tickets, head over to the link above!
When: Friday, July 21st, 2024
Where: 1817 Crowchild Trail NW
Time: 5 pm
Cost: $21+
Love art? Described as a comprehensive overview of Meryl McMaster’s career, nikihci-âniskotâpân bloodline showcases meaningful art from the past and present. Check it out at the Edison and enjoy it until September 1st for FREE.
When: Until September 1st, 2024
Where: 150 9th Avenue SE, Calgary
Cost: FREE
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
Located just outside of Red Deer, Alberta, the Sylvan Lake Aqua Splash Park is the ultimate spot for sizzling summer days. With launch pads, trampolines, an obstacle course, slides, a 15-foot tower, and more – this ginormous floating playground is truly one of a kind.
When: Until September 2nd, 2024
Where: Bay #1, 5100 Lakeshore Drive– Sylvan Lake, Alberta
Cost: $18 (one hour)
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
“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
This July, hit Discovery Canyon and sail the lazy river, lounge on their “beach” or go golfing on their course. There’s an entire day’s worth of fun stuff to do – for less!
When: Opens June 1st, 2024
Where: 3800 River Bend Drive Red Deer County, Alberta
Cost: FREE + $6 tube rentals
There really is no other place like it! This summer, visit the Bowden Sunmaze when flowers are in full bloom. Wander the field and snap a few pics in celebration of the warmer season, it’s magical!
When: Mid-late July
Where: 34530 RR#14 Red Deer County, Alberta
Cost: $15+
There’s no better way to spend an afternoon than with your feet in the grass. This month, Inhale, exhale, stretch and sweat at one of the two outdoor Yoga classes in Calgary.
When: Every Sunday
Where: see locations here
Cost: $15
Fun for the whole family! Cineplex Canada’s Family Favourites deal is back and every Saturday this July you can enjoy a popular title for just $3.99.
When: Every Saturday this June
Where: See Cineplex locations near you above
Cost: $3.99+
There you have it, friends! 20 free and cheap things to do in Calgary this July! As always please be safe, be smart and be kind. Have fun out there!
It's a beautiful week to be out and about, Vancouver. From the first Shipyards Night…
It's a new week in Calgary, which means a new excuse to explore the city…
Only fun is allowed here in Edmonton!
A brand-new arts festival is coming to North Vancouver this June that local history lovers…
Have you ever wondered what it's actually like to live in a tiny home? Not…
If you love shopping local, you're going to be excited about this one. Makers is…