Weekend in Calgary
This weekend itinerary highlights Calgary's diverse summer offerings, focusing on major festivals, a thrilling football game, a spectacular fireworks finale, and unique cultural experiences. It's a perfect blend of culinary adventures, entertainment, and community spirit, designed for locals to immerse themselves in the best of what the city has to offer.
Friday Evening - Comedy & Culinary Delights
Friday, August 22Comedy Festival
Kick off your weekend with laughter at the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival.
This evening features Adam Ray (as Dr. Phil Live) and Mark Normand, supported by Ms. Pat and Grace O'Malley. It's an outdoor, 18+ event promising non-stop laughs and great vibes.
The festival runs all weekend with different headliners each night. Gates typically open in the late afternoon, with shows continuing into the evening. Be sure to check specific set times for the comedians you want to see. This is a popular event, so purchasing tickets in advance is highly recommended.
Prince's Island Park is accessible by walking from downtown Calgary. The closest C-Train stations are Downtown West-Kerby or 1st Street SW. No parking is available on the island; use nearby paid lots in Eau Claire Market or consider free street parking in Sunnyside/Eau Claire on evenings and Sundays.
Taste of Asia
Embark on a culinary journey at the CNOOC Taste of Asia 2025 Calgary Food Festival.
This vibrant three-day festival celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Asia, featuring diverse dishes, live entertainment, and cultural showcases. Indulge in savory street food, traditional favorites, and modern twists on classic recipes.
The festival runs from 11 AM to 10 PM on Friday and Saturday. Admission is free with registration, and food/beverages are purchased with sampling tickets (typically CAD 1 each, items range from 2-7 tickets). Expect live bands, cultural performances, and a bustling atmosphere.
Located in downtown Calgary, the festival is easily accessible by C-Train (various downtown stations) and numerous bus routes. Paid parking lots are available nearby.
Saturday - Sports, Ribs & Fireworks Finale
Saturday, August 23Ribfest Feast
Indulge in mouth-watering BBQ at the McKenzie Towne Ribfest 2025, part of the Western Canada Rib Fest Tour.
Enjoy award-winning ribs from top North American ribbers, a variety of food trucks, live entertainment, and family-friendly fun. This is a new event for Calgary and a must-visit for food lovers.
The festival runs from 11 AM to 10 PM on Saturday. It's a family-friendly atmosphere with something for all ages. Tickets are available at the door.
Located in Southeast Calgary, McKenzie Towne is accessible via various bus routes. Driving is also an option, with parking available in the area.
Stampeders Football
Experience the excitement of Canadian Football League action as the Calgary Stampeders take on the Saskatchewan Roughriders.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of a live CFL game, a staple of Calgary's sports scene.
This is a key rivalry game, so expect a lively crowd and high energy. Tickets should be purchased in advance due to high demand. Arrive early to enjoy pre-game festivities.
McMahon Stadium is easily accessible via the C-Train, with the Banff Trail Station being the closest stop. Several bus routes also serve the stadium. Parking is available but can be busy on game days.
Art Exhibition
Explore 'Chambers' Ring' by Lisa Lipton, an exhibition that delves into the history, spectacle, and materiality of boxing.
Through media archaeology and process art, the work analyzes the rhythmic active body and how its perception is influenced by technology. Lipton's work often investigates the impact of popular culture and media on concepts of memory, futurity, and identity.
Gallery hours on Saturdays are typically from 12 PM to 5 PM. This exhibition offers a unique perspective on a common sport through an artistic lens. It's a great opportunity to engage with contemporary art in Calgary.
TRUCK Contemporary Art is located in the Sunalta/Beltline area. It's a short walk from the Sunalta C-Train station. Various bus routes also serve the area, and street parking is available.
GlobalFest Finale
Conclude your Saturday with the spectacular Grand Finale of GlobalFest 2025.
This international fireworks festival culminates with a breathtaking pyromusical display by Canada, synchronized to music over Elliston Lake. Before the fireworks, explore the OneWorld Festival, featuring multicultural pavilions, live performances, international food vendors, and a night market.
Park gates open at 6 PM, with fireworks commencing between 9:30 PM and 10 PM. This is an outdoor festival that goes ahead rain or shine. No on-site parking is available; utilize the shuttle service from off-site parking lots or public transit. Children aged 5 and under are admitted free.
Elliston Park is located in East Calgary. Public transit via bus routes is recommended. GlobalFest provides a return shuttle service from designated off-site parking lots, details available on their website.
Sunday - Markets, Music & Culture
Sunday, August 24Summer Market
Spend your Sunday morning at the Flavours & Finds Summer Market.
Hosted by Dine Find, this unique indoor and outdoor market at cSPACE Marda Loop features handmade goods, locally-crafted food and drink, and a curated lineup of local vendors. Discover everything from skincare and ceramics to art and jewelry.
The market runs from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Admission is free, but free tickets are recommended to manage capacity. Enjoy refreshing drinks, tasty snacks (with allergy-friendly options), and outdoor games in a beautiful community space.
cSPACE Marda Loop is accessible by Calgary Transit bus routes serving the Marda Loop area. Ample free street parking is available, as well as a dedicated parking lot off 29th Ave SW.
Wind Symphony Concert
Enjoy a relaxing afternoon with the Calgary Wind Symphony's Summer Concert Series.
Bring your lawn chairs and blankets to Riley Park and immerse yourself in classic band music performed in the park's new band shell. This free, family-friendly outdoor concert is a beloved community tradition.
The concert runs from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. It's a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the summer weather with quality music. All ages are welcome.
Riley Park is in Northwest Calgary, accessible by a short walk from the SAIT/AUArts/ACAD C-Train station. Several bus routes also serve the area. Street parking is available nearby.
Black Excellence Arts
Participate in 'February In August: A Celebration of Black Excellence In The Arts' at Contemporary Calgary.
This event is a poetry-musical mashup featuring Calgary's PoëThree, a spoken word funk-fusion jazz quartet. It celebrates the creative contributions of the Black community, with poetry, spoken word, rap, funk, blues, soul, and jazz.
The event is scheduled from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. It's an opportunity to experience powerful performances and engage with local culture. It’s part of a broader initiative to celebrate Black excellence outside of Black History Month.
Contemporary Calgary is located downtown, accessible via various C-Train stations (e.g., 8th Street SW or Centre Street stations, then a short walk) and multiple bus routes. Paid parking lots are available in the vicinity.
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