The Best Things Happening in Calgary This Summer (2025 Edition)

Your Month-by-Month Guide to Family-Friendly Events, Festivals, and Fun

Looking to make the most of summer in Calgary? Whether you're planning memory-making outings with your kids, date nights, or staycation adventures, this guide covers the biggest and best events happening all summer long—from music and food to culture, art, and fireworks.

June 2025

Sled Island Music & Arts Festival

Dates: June 18–22

Location: Multiple venues across Calgary

Why go: A city-wide celebration of music, comedy, and art. While some shows are 18+, daytime events and outdoor performances are family-friendly and perfect for creative teens or casual music lovers.

JazzYYC Summer Festival

Dates: June 23–29

Location: Jazz venues + outdoor spaces

Why go: This chill, sophisticated event brings live jazz to intimate venues and local parks. Great for a relaxed date night or a low-key evening with older kids.

July 2025

Calgary Stampede

Dates: July 4–13

Location: Stampede Park

Why go: The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth returns with rodeo shows, concerts, a massive midway, and daily family-friendly programming. Don’t forget to check out Weadickville for kid-friendly eats and activities.

Cowboys Music Festival

Dates: July 3–13

Location: Cowboys Tent

Why go: For a grown-up night out during Stampede, this high-energy music fest brings major acts and DJ parties. Plan for childcare—it’s one for the parents.

Fiestaval Latino Festival

Dates: July 18–20

Location: Olympic Plaza

Why go: A free, family-friendly celebration of Latin culture with vibrant music, dancing, and amazing food. Great for all ages and right in the heart of downtown.

Calgary Folk Music Festival

Dates: July 24–27

Location: Prince’s Island Park

Why go: This laid-back, four-day event features local and international acts, great food, and a full family zone with activities for kids. Bring a blanket and settle in for all-day tunes.

Inglewood Sunfest

Date: July 26

Location: Inglewood

Why go: One of Calgary’s best local street festivals, with live music, shopping, food trucks, and family activities. Bonus: it’s stroller-friendly and dog-friendly too.

August 2025

Chasing Summer Festival

Dates: August 2–3

Location: Max Bell Grounds

Why go: Western Canada’s biggest EDM festival. Not kid-friendly—but if you’re into dance music, this is a must-attend.

Calgary Fringe Festival

Dates: August 1–9

Location: Various venues

Why go: Bold, uncensored, and wildly creative theatre performances in small spaces and pop-up locations. Some shows are family-friendly—check listings for ratings.

Expo Latino

Dates: August 8–10

Location: Prince’s Island Park

Why go: Another incredible Latin festival with high-energy performances, food vendors, and culture everywhere. Bonus: free admission for kids under 12.

Calgary Dragon Boat Festival

Dates: August 8–10

Location: North Glenmore Park

Why go: Fast-paced racing, cultural showcases, and kid-friendly entertainment. A full-day outing near the water with great picnic spots and energy.

Marda Gras Street Festival

Date: August 10

Location: Marda Loop

Why go: New Orleans meets Calgary in this playful street fest with dancing, performers, artisan markets, and family-friendly zones.

Ongoing Summer Highlight

BUMP Festival (Beltline Urban Murals Project)

Dates: All August

Location: Beltline District

Why go: Watch live mural painting, explore vibrant new public art, and attend family-friendly tours and activities throughout the month.

Summer in Calgary is packed—and you don’t need to leave town to find incredible food, culture, music, and play. Mark your calendar, pack some snacks, and dive into the magic of YYC in full bloom.

Want more summer content, parenting tips, or local giveaways? Follow @dashingdad for honest, approachable Calgary content—designed for families who want real-life fun without the stress.