Outdoor Events in Calgary: A Local’s Guide to Fun Under the Sun

Did you know Calgary offers some hidden outdoor events waiting just for you? Let’s uncover them together.

Calgary, with its picturesque landscapes, presents a plethora of outdoor activities. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or someone looking for a tranquil retreat, there’s something here for everyone.

Calgary is home to several outdoor festivals. These events offer music, arts, and delicious food, making them a must-visit. Keep an eye out for annual schedules and plan your visit accordingly.

Parks and Recreational Spots

For those who prefer a quiet day out, Calgary boasts beautiful parks. Pack a picnic, grab a book, and enjoy a day in the sun. Some parks even host mini outdoor events, like yoga or tai chi, to elevate your experience.

Calgary isn’t just about relaxation; it’s also a hub for adrenaline junkies. Participate or be a spectator at one of the many sports events happening year-round.

Tips for a Perfect Day Out

  1. Always check event schedules. They often update, so stay informed.
  2. Dress appropriately. Calgary’s weather can be unpredictable.
  3. Stay hydrated. Especially if you’re out in the sun for long periods.

In essence, Calgary offers a mix of both worlds – thrilling sports and serene landscapes. Explore these outdoor events and make the most of what Calgary has to offer. And remember, the best memories are often made when you least expect them.

1. Spark Science Road Trip

  • Price: $40.00
  • Location: Various spots
  • Description: You need to go because: This choose-your-own-adventure is great for families who want to spend time together in a private way. Get in your car and choose a trip. Then, you’ll follow a carefully chosen map to get there. Find out more about Alberta by looking at science facts and finding secret places. You might as well get your energy from nature while you’re out there. Pack some healthy food like fruits, nuts, and granola bars (Nature Valley has some tasty tastes!).
 

2. Hiking Adventures

  • Price: Free
  • Location: Various trails
  • Description: Why You Should Go: Nothing puts your family back on track like getting back in touch with nature. As we get older, most of us tend to forget how great it is to spend time outside. Bowmont Park has playgrounds, picnic tables, and different hike trails if you want to do something easy with your kids.
 

3. Pumpkin Palooza at Cobb’s

  • Price: $19.75 online, $23 door (under 3 free)
  • Location: Cobb’s Adventure Park, Calgary
  • Description: Why You Need to Go: This year, choose the best pumpkin! Walk through Cobb’s with your family and friends during Pumpkin Palooza. This is a great chance to take some beautiful fall shots and get into the spirit of the season. Open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thanksgiving Monday and Saturday and Sunday in October.
 

4. Inglewood Night Market

  • Price: $5.00
  • Location: 9th Avenue SE, Calgary
  • Description: Why you should go: You can find handmade crafts, old clothes, antiques, and specialty foods for the whole family there. This new market is open every Friday in September from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. and sells all kinds of unique items. On their website, you can buy tickets ahead of time, and a part of the money goes to The Music Mile Revival Fund. Even dogs are welcome!
 

5. Alberta Culture Days

  • Price: Free
  • Location: Across Alberta
  • Description: Why You Should Go: Until September 30, you can try indoor and outdoor sports all over the province. This event helps more Canadians learn about, take part in, and care about the arts and culture. There’s fun for everyone, from a unique art show to an exciting treasure hunt.
 

6. Carburn Park Picnic

  • Price: Free
  • Location: Carburn Park, Calgary
  • Description: Why you should go: Carburn Park is a big park along the Bow River. I mean, who doesn’t like a lunch by the water in the fall? It has swimming and fishing ponds that were made by people, walking paths, and picnic tables. To be clear, you can bring dogs, but you can’t swim. Make sure your picnic bags are full of healthy snacks that will help you enjoy the outdoors as you look at animals, birds, and wildflowers.
 

7. Visit Butterfield Acres Farm

  • Price: $13.49 kids, $15.49 adults, $14.49 seniors
  • Location: Butterfield Acres Farm, Calgary
  • Description: Why You Should Go: Fall isn’t really fall without a trip to the farm. Butterfield Acres Farm is a great petting zoo to take your family to because it has a lot of fun things to do and is a great place to teach your kids about farm animals. You can look forward to pony rides, wagon rides pulled by tractors, and exercise stations on a farm. You can even feed the animals at the new Harvest Pumpkin Fest.
 

8. McHugh Bluff Park Exploration

  • Price: Free
  • Location: McHugh Bluff Park, Calgary
  • Description: Why You Should Go: McHugh Bluff Park is in two towns in the Northwest. Since this hot spot is so close to the city heart, commuters, dog walkers, and runners like to use its different paths and tracks. It gives you and your family a unique chance to see the city’s skyline (and the beautiful fall leaves) while being in nature. You get the best of both worlds. You can’t beat that! The park is open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., giving you plenty of time to get your daily nature fix.
 

9. Bowden SunMaze Adventure

  • Price: $6.00 (7-18 yrs), $10.00 adults
  • Location: Bowden, Red Deer County
  • Description: Why you should go: Nothing says happiness like a field full of 100,000 happy sunflowers. This place has something for everyone in the family. There are many kinds of veggies, many kinds of flowers, and a play area for kids. You can go through the plant maze until late September.
 

10. Heritage Inn Balloon Festival

 

  • Price: $20.00 (parking)
  • Location: High River, AB
  • Description: You need to go because: Is it a bird, a plane, or a hot air balloon? This event happens every fall and is always a big deal. This year, it will take place from September 23 to 27. There will be hot air balloon races and the balloon Night Glow, which has balloons that glow in the dark. This is a great event for the whole family. This is not only a beautiful thing to see, but it also gives people a chance to talk to each other.

 

Visit calgary.ca to know upcoming outdoor events in the city!

 

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