Here are 10 exciting activities and events happening in the city this weekend and on the holiday Monday
The Canada Day long weekend is here, and Calgary has plenty on the go. From sports to theatre to Canada Day activities, the city has it covered.
Here are 10 exciting activities and events happening in the city this weekend, and on the holiday Monday.
Fairy Tales Queer art and film festival
The Calgary Queer Arts Society presents Fairy Tales, which, entering its 26th year, is the longest running Queer art and film festival in the Canadian prairies. Fairy Tales 2024 will showcase 33 short films, 15 artists, 10 makers, seven feature films and two DJs, as well as a market and arts exhibition.
Where: The Grand Theatre
When: June 27 to 30: various times
Cost: $10+
Calgary Stampeders Family Day
The Calgary Stampeders are hosting the Winnipeg Blue Bombers this weekend for a special family-themed game day. Before the game, there will be a free family tailgate bash with face painting, inflatables, games, giveaways and more. After the game, families can join players on the field for photo opportunities.
Where: McMahon Stadium
When: June 29: 5 p.m.
Cost: $19+
National Film Board of Canada screening: Stolen Time
The documentary “Stolen Time” follows charismatic elder rights lawyer Melissa Miller as she takes on the corporate for-profit nursing-home industry — an industry notorious for its lack of transparency and accountability. Director Helene Klodawsky portrays an emerging elder justice movement tied to the giving and receiving of care.
Where: Globe Cinema
When: June 29: 2 p.m.
Cost: Free
Canada Day at St. Patrick’s Island Park
St. Patrick’s Island Park will be host to three stages with live music, a Calgary Fire Department water vessel display, face painting, playgrounds and food trucks.
Where: St. Patrick’s Island Park
When: July 1: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: Free
Heritage Park’s 60th birthday celebration
Heritage Park celebrates 60 years this weekend with live music, games and complimentary treats like birthday cake. There will also be a parade and other lively performances.
Where: Heritage Park
When: July 1: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: $22.95+
Canada Day at the library
The Calgary Public Library is celebrating the holiday by offering free story time, Indigenous dancing demonstrations and outdoor musical performances. It will also host a citizenship ceremony for new Canadians.
Where: Central Library
When: July 1: 12 to 5 p.m.
Cost: Free
Millarville races and farmer’s market
This weekend marks the 119th anniversary of the Millarville races. This event promises several races, including ladies’ sidesaddle and children’s races, along with beer gardens and vendors from the Millarville Farmers’ Market.
Where: Millarville Racing and Agriculture Society, 306097 192 St. W, Millarville
When: July 1: 12 to 6 p.m.
Cost: $17+
NMC presents: Canada Day at Studio Bell and King Eddy
July 1 marks the eighth anniversary of the opening of Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre. To celebrate, Studio Bell is offering free admission, live music and hands-on activities. As part of the festivities, the King Eddy across the street will host family-friendly live music on the rooftop and mainstage.
Where: Studio Bell and the King Eddy
When: July 1: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Studio Bell, 11 a.m. to close at King Eddy
Cost: Free
Canada Day at the Confluence
This day of free activities will include walking tours, live music from Canadian musicians, an Indigenous artisan market and more. The Confluence also offers great views for the fireworks, scheduled for approximately 11 p.m.
Where: The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland
When: July 1: 11 a.m. to late
Cost: Free
Watch Canada Day fireworks in or around Calgary
Canada Day fireworks are confirmed, despite ongoing water restrictions and fire bans in the Calgary area. Officials have taken safety precautions to ensure the show goes on.
Here is where you can watch fireworks for free on Canada in Calgary and surrounding areas:
- Calgary: June 30 – dusk at Century Downs Racetrack and Casino
- Calgary: July 1 – 11 p.m. at Stampede Park
- Calgary: July 1 – dusk at Lynx Ridge Golf Club
- Airdrie: July 1 – 10:45 p.m. at Chinook Winds Regional Park
- Chestermere: July 1 – 10:30 p.m. at John Peake Park
- Cochrane: July 1 – 10:45 p.m. at Mitford Park
- Okotoks: July 1 – 10:30 p.m. at Bill Robertson Park
- Strathmore: July 1 – dusk at Kinsmen Park