Planning on a Calgary stay-cation this Summer, or looking to find more frugal ways to enjoy the Summer? With the economy in a slump, it’s good to have some options for places to take the family, friends or visiting relatives without burning a hole in your pocket book. Here are 12 Free things to do in Calgary this Summer.
Calgary Parks, Pathways & Water Parks
Beat the heat and let the kids cool off in a water park. Or enjoy any of Calgary’s parks or pathways. Some of the parks offer free Music in the Park during certain times. Check website for full schedule.
Calgary International Spaceport
Beam me up Scotty! The International Spaceport is a unique educational and entertainment facility focusing on space and aeronautics. Located at the Airport, they offer hands-on exhibits and displays making for an interstellar adventure.
On July 21 and August 18 take advantage of the extra daylight hours and enjoy free admission to the Discovery Centre from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm. Note: Admission does not include access to the Fish Hatchery.
Trips to feed the fish will be made available on a first-come, first-serve basis at a fee of $2 per person. While there investigate, explore and discover Alberta’s fish, wildlife, water and aquatic ecosystems, explore hands-on exhibits or take a stroll along the trails in the Interpretive Wetland.
This year Theatre Calgary continues Calgary’s Shakespeare tradition on Prince’s Island with HAMLET. Starring a cast of emerging theatre talent, their annual outdoor production is a magnificent way to spend a summer’s evening.
Grab a blanket, a picnic, and take in one of Shakespeare’s greatest plays in one of Calgary’s favourite places. Shakespeare by the Bow takes place from June 21 to August 21. Admission is free however they do encourage cash donations.
Free First Thursday Nights at the Glenbow Museum
An amazing adventure awaits when you step into the Glenbow Museum. Learn about the Age of Exploration in North America, journey through the Blackfoot Gallery, take in the Art of Asia, the mineralogy exhibition and so much more. This offer is only valid from 5pm – 9pm on the first Thursday of July and August.
Music in the Plaza at Heritage Park
2016 is the Year of Music in Calgary and every Wednesday evening in July and August, the Stampede Talent Search partners with Heritage Park to provide a weekly opening act. This collaboration offers novice young performers a public performance venue with featured acts selected from Western Canada’s finest up and coming artists.
Performances are free of charge and take place before the Park gate in the Engineered Air Bandstand. Pack a blanket, picnic basket, bug spray, sun tan lotion and enjoy those Summer nights with some awesome tunes. Family friendly, no pets, rain or shine.
Many festivals are admission free although some may charge a small fee to attend. We’ve been to quite a few, here are some to get you started: Marda Gras in Marda Loop, Calgary Turkish Festival, Sunfest in Inglewood, Fiestaval Calgary, Calgary Arab Festival, Spaghetti Western Festival, Carifest, and the Dragon Boat Festival.
Inglewood Bird Sanctuary and Nature Centre
Bring your binoculars to the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary and keep your eyes peeled for any of the 270 species of birds, 21 species of mammals (including deer), 2 amphibians, 2 reptiles, 7 species of fish and 27 species of butterflies. This 36-hectare wildlife reserve has beautiful trails and is just a short drive from downtown Calgary.
Chapters | IndigoKids Presents: Storytime & Fun
Check their website to see weekly offerings of story’s and crafts and more. What better opportunity to get them interested in books then to surround them with books!
Calgary Stampede
Suncor Family Day & BMO Kids Day
A fun way to experience the Calgary Stampede is take the family down on either Suncor Family Day or BMO Kids Day. Both days include free admission within certain times in the morning. Please check the website for more information, where good walking shoes, sunscreen and get there early!
Get up early to snag your curb side seats and enjoy the official kick off to the Greatest Show on Earth! The Calgary Stampede Parade will start with Parade Marshall’s Jann Arden and Paul Brandt leading the way. The horses, the floats and the bands will get your boots tappin and your hands a clappin. Check website for street closures and parade route.
A Calgary Stampede tradition, find Free Breakfasts during Stampede all over Calgary. Enjoy food, music, entertainment and event a few celebrity appearances at these breakfasts every day of stampede.
