10 Things to do in Calgary this August

As the sunniest city in all of Canada, summers in Calgary are far from disappointing. With a multitude of activities, ranging from rafting down the river to theatre performances, you’d best believe the city has something to offer, no matter what you’re in the mood for. 

Here’s a taste of Calgary events in August to help you get your fill of summer fun before classes begin.

Days of Yore – Aug. 1 to 2 at Heritage Park

Cost: $39.95 +GST for adults

Experience centuries of history in just two days! Watch medieval jousting, witness live cannon firings and military demonstrations, explore historic camps and vehicles, and meet costumed interpreters from different eras. Between the action, cool off with Heritage Park’s famous old-fashioned ice cream or enjoy classic mess hall favourites as you explore one of Calgary’s most iconic attractions.

Bonus: Heritage Park also hosts Music in the Plaza, a free outdoor concert series every Wednesday evening until Sept. 2. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy live performances from local musicians in the heart of the historical village.

BUMP Art Festival – Aug. 3 to 17, throughout Calgary

Cost: Free

Explore Calgary's largest public art festival as local and international artists transform walls throughout the city into stunning murals. In addition to the artwork, the festival includes community events, artist talks, and block parties that celebrate creativity and urban culture. It's a fun way to discover Calgary’s inner-city neighbourhoods while enjoying free outdoor art.

Float the Bow River

Cost: Varies; expect between $60–108 for a group of 2-4

Floating down the river is an iconic Calgary tradition! Grab some friends, rent a raft or kayak and head out for a day of fun under the sun. You can rent a raft from the Outdoor Centre (students get 10% off), or reserve with local companies like Lazy Day Raft Rentals. Most floats start at the West Baker Park boat launch and ends at the footbridge of Prince's Island Park, about 2-4 hours depending on the current. 

Downhill Karting at WinSport 

Cost: Starts at $34 for adults

Fulfill your need for speed at Calgary’s world-famous WinSport facility! Downhill karting starts with a chairlift ride to the top. From there, the power of gravity will propel you down the 5,905-foot track, featuring 50+ twists and turns that are sure to get your adrenaline racing.

Calgary Fringe Festival – July 31–Aug. 8, multiple venues around Calgary 

Cost: $20 per show, with some shows offering special discounts or pay-what-you-want tickets.

Looking for something a little different? The Calgary Fringe Festival features original performances by independent artists from Calgary and around the world. Explore comedy, drama, musicals and more while supporting local theatre. 

Carifest (Aug. 13–16) and Expo Latino (Aug. 14–16) – Downtown Calgary 

Cost: Most events are free (Carifest), or $35 for single day pass (ExpoLatino) 

Experience two of Calgary’s most vibrant cultural festivals in one weekend. Enjoy live music, colourful costumes, dance performances, authentic food and family-friendly activities celebrating Caribbean and Latin American cultures. Best of all, Carifest at Cowboys Park and Expo Latino at Prince’s Island Park are just a short walk apart, making it easy to experience both.  

Great Outdoors Comedy Festival – Aug. 28 to 30 at Prince’s Island Park 

Cost: Starting at $49 for single shows, or $189 for a 1-day pass

Get ready to laugh under the open sky as comedy takes center stage in the great outdoors. See world-famous comedians like Nikki Glaser, John Mulaney, and Trevor Wallace.

High Park Movies with a View - Aug. 6 and Aug. 20 at High Park 

Cost: Free!

Enjoy a free movie under the stars and surrounded by the city lights at High Park! Two showings are available in August: (1) Tekkonkinkreet on Aug. 6, doors at 9 p.m. with screening at 9:40 p.m.; and (2) My Friend Dave 2 on Aug. 20 with doors at 9 p.m. and screening at 9:30 p.m.