Things to do this summer in Calgary

After eight months of winter, Calgary is finally experiencing warm weather with temperatures soaring into the mid-thirties. Summer in Calgary has no shortage of things to do, and for good reason—not only are there no icy roads to worry about, it's the busiest season for festivals and events.

Looking to fill your calendar? The team at the Welcome Centre has you covered—read below to learn about their favourite ways to spend summer in Calgary.

Walk along 17th Avenue

Visit the iconic 17th Avenue near the downtown Calgary core for live music, fitness classes, incredible eats and even drag shows! You can also enjoy the outdoors by walking along the street, watching a movie, and checking out local vendors and restaurants. If you have some time, you may go out and shop at some of the boutiques located in the area.

Splash around Trout Beach in St. Patrick Island

Summers in Calgary can be quite warm, so it is never a bad idea to take a dip in the Bow River. Visit St. Patrick Island and have some fun with friends and family at Trout Beach. This area also happens to be located near the neighbourhood of East Village, where you can find multiple amenities and areas to ride a bike, walk, and dine.

Grab a bite at the Taste of Calgary Food Festival

Are you a big foodie? Make sure to check the Taste of Calgary from Aug. 1-5, 2024 and discover cuisines from around the world! You’ll also be able to enjoy live music, shop with local artisans and take part in interactive activities. Admission is free; however, dishes require the purchase of tickets to try (approx. two to seven tickets, where 1 ticket = 1 dollar). 

To learn more, visit the organizers’ website.

Wander along the Calgary Public Art Trail

For art-lovers, the Calgary Public Art Trail is an activity that you cannot miss! This self-directed walkable tour guides you through several neighbourhoods to immerse yourself in Calgary's vibrant public arts scene, featuring murals and sculptures from renowned artists. 

Want more? Then check out the BUMP Mural Festival, Aug. 3-18, 2024. This annual festival brings together artists from around the world to the city to add a splash of colour to the Beltline community and surrounding areas.

Catch a Calgary Philharmonic Concert at Prince’s Island Park

Love music? Hear Calgary’s world-class orchestra play at Phil in the Park + Beat Beehoven. This outdoor concert is taking place on Sept. 8, 2024, at 2 p.m. at Prince’s Island Park in downtown Calgary. Grab your blankets, get your sunglasses, and pack a nice picnic for this unforgettable experience. A perfect adventure to walk around the park with peers. 

This event is free to attend, but registration is required.

Explore Nose Hill Park

If you like to spend your time outdoors and connect with nature, then this (free!) activity is for you! Nose Hill Park has one of the most breath-taking lookout spots of downtown’s skyline. Get to explore the Siksikaitsitapi (Blackfoot Confederacy) landmark and other interesting spots within Nose Hill such as the Glacier Erratic. 

Tip: Nose Hill Park spans 11 square kilometres, so it helps to print out a map before exploring the trail!