Notable Calgary Canada Day Celebrations

There’s much to celebrate: the Royals are headed to town, Stampede is coming, and Canada Day kicks it all off. To make sure your Canada Day is notable, we’ve tracked down a list of our favourites to help you get your patriot spirit on. Grab your reds and whites and get out there!

Prince’s Island and Olympic Plaza
Partake of Calgary’s largest single day festival, and experience music, roving performers, games, activities, and tons of food at the city’s annual celebration. If you’re also a young professional parent, Prince’s Island has everything from balloon animals and face paint to kids entertainment. It all comes together with fireworks at 10:45pm at Olympic Plaza.

First Thursday Canada Day Edition
If you’re looking to spend Canada Day immersed in Calgary’s arts and culture, then this is for you. With everything from historical walking tours of downtown, to shopping for locally-produced wares at Art Central, to taking in music and entertainment, or just enjoying the free pancake show (free pancakes, bands, and two art openings), this special edition of “First Thursday” has you covered.

Escape the City
Maybe you prefer to celebrate Canada Day with a view. Luckily, both Banff and Canmore have full Canada Day schedules to offer, including free breakfasts, parades, and entertainment. Take a break to enjoy high tea and tradition at the Fairmont Banff Springs, or celebrate Canada’s birthday in rustic serenity at the Rustica Steakhouse in Canmore while you’re in town.

Calgary Stampeders
If sports are more your celebratory style, the Stamps have you covered. Enjoy their official Canada Day Kickoff Party (free with your ticket) from 4 to 6pm, where you can enjoy entertainment and mingle with Calgary Stampeder Outriders and player alumni. Then check out the Stamps versus the Toronto Argonauts at McMahon Stadium. Kick-off is at 7pm.

East Village Street Fair
With a focus on “Harmony in our Part, our Home, our Future,” the East Village Street Fair is a unique way to enjoy Canada Day. Their walkabout format will showcase wares, crafts, old and new transportation, and musician showcases throughout the day provided by the Cantos Music Foundation. Take in the newly revitalized East Village river walk while you’re there, or hop across the river for more activities at Fort Calgary.

Looking for more Canada Day in Calgary suggestions? Check this out…

Image courtesy stock.xchng.