The grass is turning green, flowers are beginning to bloom; there’s no longer any denying it – Spring has sprung! This means summer isn’t too far behind!
Warmer days are great for escaping the city and enjoying a slower pace. Okotoks is only a short drive from Calgary – and you might be surprised to learn how much they have going on!
From fun festivals and tasty bites to historic landmarks and public art pieces. There’s loads to see and do in Okotoks this summer! Here are just a few ideas…
What To Do
Consider this your call to adventure. You may visit with a specific event or thing to do in mind, but that doesn’t mean it has to stop there…
Events and Festivals
The Okotoks Parade and Children’s Festival is one of the largest annual events in town, and if you’ve got little ones, you won’t want to miss it. Enjoy bands, floats, dancers, horses and fire trucks as they wind throughout downtown. How fun – and it’s free!
When: 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 15th
Where: Downtown Okotoks
This free street festival is a must for music lovers and a beloved Okotoks summer tradition. BuskersFest features musicians, actors, magicians, jugglers, street performers, dancers, b-boys, singers and entertainers of all ages.
When: 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 22nd
Where: Across McRae and North Railway Streets
Local Markets
Kick off National Indigenous History Month with the Tipi Camp & Indigenous Artisan Market. It’s a chance to learn, connect, and shop artisan and handmade items from small businesses in the community.
When: 7:00 AM on Friday, May 31st – June 2
Where: Okotoks Recreation Centre
Who doesn’t love a good summer Farmers’ Market? The Okotoks Farmers’ Market will take place weekly and feature delicious locally-grown food and artisan items.
When: 3:30 – 6:30 PM Fridays from June 14th to September 27th
Where: 322041 15 St. E Foothills County
Outdoor Activities
It’s Canada, right? So you’re never without a plethora of hiking trails and parks. Try out some of the local walking, biking and fishing spots, or hone your swing at one of the three golf courses in Okotoks this summer; D’Arcy Ranch, Crystal Ridge and River’s Edge.
What To See
Looking at things can be a great pastime, especially when it’s not on your phone. How refreshing!
Local History
Learn about the history of Okotoks and discover historic landmarks, heritage buildings and significant places at the Okotoks Museum & Archives.
When: Open 10 AM – 5 PM, Monday – Sunday
Where: 49 N Railway St, Okotoks
Art and Culture
If your interests lean on the artsy side, then check out the Okotoks Art Gallery right beside the Museum. They have rotating exhibits, so you never know what you’ll find!
When: 1:00 pm on Sunday, May 5th
Where: 53 N Railway St, Okotoks
If you’d rather check out some art in the wild, Okotoks has an interactive map directing to public art pieces like murals, installations, heritage buildings and historic spaces.
When: Year-round
Where: Around the town of Okotoks
Where To Eat
Any good adventure is bound to work up an appetite. From bustling eateries to quaint cafes, here are some of the best local eats.
French 50 Bakery
You can’t go wrong with French baked goods! This place specializes in handmade pastries, rustic sourdough, delicious brunch and artisan pizza.
When: Open Wednesday to Sunday
Where: 52 North Railway St, Okotoks
Social Kabob
If you’re looking for a local institution, this family-owned restaurant has been serving up top-notch Indian cuisine for over 25 years. It’s a resident favourite and you’ll see why from the first bite.
When: Open daily
Where: 200 Southridge Dr #263
RFG Italian
This upscale Italian place in downtown Okotoks is new in town and quickly becoming a favourite. Get your pasta kick after a long day of exploring or try some tasty, traditional appies.
When: Open Tuesday to Sunday
Where: 52 North Railway St, Okotoks
Where To Stay
Sure, Okotoks is just a short drive down from Calgary. But if you’re planning an extended visit, you might as well get put up in style!
Okotoks Lions Campground
If it’s the height of summer, it would be a shame to sit around inside! Enjoy this resort-style campground with the whole family, complete with full washrooms, laundry, jungle gyms, mini-golf and non-motorized watercraft rentals for cruising around the pond.
Where: 99 Woodhaven Drive, Okotoks
We’ve already done all the planning for you, so now, just go and enjoy your trip!
Harmony House Bed & Breakfast
Stay inside a quaint heritage home that’s decorated entirely in the historic, Victorian style with four poster beds and a full breakfast every morning.
Where: 15 Westridge Crescent, Okotoks
The Royal Duke Hotel, Eatery & Pub
The Royal Duke Hotel is a boutique‑style hotel in the heart of Olde Towne Okotoks. It’s been around since 1928 and features an in-house pub-style eatery.
Where: 2 Elizabeth Street, Okotoks
OKOTOKS SUMMER
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Alicia Lyons
Branded Content Writer
Alicia is a storyteller who chased the sun all the way to Calgary and decided to stay. When she’s not crafting killer content, she can be found stumbling along nature trails, curling under a fuzzy blanket with a good book, or finding any excuse to eat.
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