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Celebrate with Red and White: 12 Fun Things to Do in Calgary on Canada Day
- Watch the Canada Day fireworks from Stampede Park
- Watch performances at Olympic Plaza
- Celebrate at The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland
- Bring the family to Heritage Park
- Head over to Bon Ton Meat Market and host a family BBQ
- Have fun at BownessFest
- Go to St. Patrick's Island
- Take a stroll in Downtown Calgary
- Support Indigenous artisan markets
- Party it up at the King Eddy
- Ride the rollercoasters at Calaway Park
- Meet the animals at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo
Get ready to paint the town red and white! Canada Day is just around the corner and celebrations will take place left and right!
There’s no shortage of lively happenings all over the country, and Calgary is no exception. Expect fireworks and events that celebrate the local community and show our rich cultural tapestry!
Ready to celebrate Canada Day in Calgary but not sure where to go? We’ve got you covered! Here’s our list of our favourite things to do on Canada Day so you’ll know how to celebrate in style!
Watch the Canada Day fireworks from Stampede Park
Media credit: calgarystampede
Location: 650 25 Ave SE
When: Approximately 11 pm (2024 time)
Where to Watch: Scotsman’s Hill, Downtown Calgary, surrounding areas of Stampede Park
Admission: Free
No Canada Day is complete without the Calgary tradition of watching the fireworks at Stampede Park. See these dazzling sparklers light up the sky with your family and friends—an excellent way to end the day.
You don’t have to be at the park to watch this, actually. You can just go where you can safely watch the fireworks.
The City of Calgary usually announces the best spots to witness the fireworks, like Scotsman’s Hill and high viewing spots in Downtown Calgary (you’re lucky if you live downtown!).
In case you don’t see the fireworks on Canada Day, don’t worry! Calgary Stampede will have fireworks every night of its event, so you can catch that instead.
Pro Tips:
If you plan on searching for the best viewing spot near Stampede Park, be sure to keep updated about road closures.
The City will post signs where the fireworks will be visible. This may change every year, though.
Watch performances at Olympic Plaza
Media credit: yycarts
Website: https://www.artscommons.ca/whats-on/canada-day-on-olympic-plaza
Location: 228 8 Ave SE
Contact: (403) 294-7455, [email protected]
When: July 1, approximately 11 am – 5 pm
Admission: Free
Celebrate Canada Day by watching spectacular performances by talented artists at the Olympic Plaza. Expect a diverse lineup of cultural and music performances.
You won’t go hungry under the sun. Food trucks will be available to keep you full and hydrated.
That’s not all! This is not just any Canada Day celebration, it’s the ultimate family-friendly event because there’s something for everyone, including kids’ arts and crafts activities!
Pro Tip:
Since this is an outdoor event, wear sunscreen and bring a bottle of water to keep yourself hydrated. You can wear a hat or bring an umbrella to shield yourself from the sun.
Celebrate at The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland
Media credit: theconfluence_yyc
Website: https://www.theconfluence.ca/
Contact: (587) 288-1406, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
Winter (Nov. 1 – May 22)
- Friday – Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm
Summer (May 22 – Nov. 1)
- Wednesday – Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm
Admission:
- General (18+): $11
- Youth (5-17): $6
- Seniors (65+): $8
- Children (0-4): Free
- Indigenous Peoples: Free
Free admission on Canada Day
Learn about our rich history at The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland (formerly called Fort Calgary). Check the available exhibits and immerse yourself in our diverse historical and cultural heritage.
On Canada Day, this 40-acre park always offers fun happenings. Watch lively performances, participate in creative activities, support artisan markets, and try delicious meals at the food trucks. It’s definitely a family-friendly event!
Canada Day celebrations are usually free, except for food available at the park. And the activities start the moment they open and end at closing time!
Pro Tip:
Check their Canada Day schedule so you can plan ahead because some activities will happen simultaneously.
Bring the family to Heritage Park
Media credit: heritageparkyyc
Website: https://heritagepark.ca/
Location: 1900 Heritage Dr SW
Contact: (403) 268-8500, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm
Admission:
- General (16 – 64): $34.95 + GST
- Child (3-15): $22.95 + GST
- Senior (65+): $26.95 + GST
There’s no better way to celebrate Canada’s birthday than going to Heritage Park. Visit the exhibits and see the thousands of artifacts in Western Canada dating back to the 1860s and find a new appreciation for our culture and history.
On Canada Day, Heritage Park is bustling with fun activities for everyone. Here, you can catch the parade, watch live performances, join activities and games, and eat the most scrumptious treats.
Head over to the Historical Village and shop ’til you drop! Antiques, unique collections, and local products await you to take them home. With all the festivities that will happen all day, you’re sure to get tired so wear your most comfortable shoes!
Pro Tip:
Wear weather-appropriate clothing to keep you comfortable throughout the day. Since the festivities will mostly be outdoors, make sure you’re hydrated throughout the day.
Head over to Bon Ton Meat Market and host a family BBQ
Media credit: bowvalleybbq
Website: https://www.bontonmeatmarket.com/
Location: 28 Crowfoot Cir NW
Contact: (403) 282-3132
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 10 am – 6 pm
- Saturday: 9 am – 6 pm
- Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm
Not all July 1 celebrations require you to go out. You can stay at home and host a family BBQ party instead because Canadians love anything that has to do with grilling meat— what a tummy-filling way to celebrate!
So, head over to the local favourite, Bon Ton Meat Market, where you can grab high-quality meats for your open grill. You can also ask the butchers to cut your meat just the way you like it!
If you’re feeling fancy, you can purchase the finest bison and elk here, along with a variety of exotic meats. Don’t forget to buy a cheesecake for dessert— there are 16 WOW Factor cheesecake varieties available here.
Pro Tip:
It’s best to buy your meat a couple of days before Canada Day or phone in your orders for easy pickup. When holidays are near, there’s usually a line at Bon Ton Meat Market.
Have fun at BownessFest
Media credit: bownessfest
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/bownessfest/
Location: Our Lady of the Assumption School, 7311 34 Ave NW (subject to change)
Contact: Via Facebook or Instagram
When: On Canada Day (exact time to be announced)
Admission: Free
BownessFest actually took a hiatus in 2024. But they’ll be back in 2025 for the largest Canada Day festival in Calgary NW!
Get ready for a whole day of festivities! There’s no shortage of them here, so wear your comfiest shoes because you’ll be dancing and having fun all day since the festival ends at night.
This lively and massive festival is all about having the most spectacular Canada Day celebrations. You’ll have to get ready to watch amazing live musical and cultural performances, eat the tastiest food, and get the kids to participate in fun activities.
Pro Tip:
Only check the BownessFest pages for updates. Their website is down, so credible information will come through their official channels.
Go to St. Patrick’s Island
Media credit: eastvillageyyc
Website: https://www.evexperience.com/st-patricks-island
Location: St. Patrick’s Island
Contact: (403) 718-0300, [email protected]
When: July 1, exact hours to be announced
Admission: Free
If you’re searching for a full day of celebrations on July 1st, head over to St. Patrick’s Island for exciting activities. It’s the place where many Calgarians gather to celebrate the day with each other because it sure becomes a vibrant place!
At this 31-acre East Village backyard, you’ll enjoy events for the whole family, with stages for live music and an Indigenous showcase to celebrate history. It’s also a perfect summer activity because there’s a playground and picnic areas.
And there’s no need to bring a picnic basket because food trucks will keep your tummy from gurgling. After that, go to the arts and crafts activities with the kids.
Pro Tip:
Check the website before heading out to see the full list of activities, especially if you plan to watch the stages. Various performances will happen at the same time, so take note of the artists you want to see.
Take a stroll in Downtown Calgary
Media credit: downtowncalgary
Website: https://www.calgary.ca/content/www/en/home/events/canada-day.html
Location: Downtown Calgary
Admission: Free
If you’re unsure where to go, a surefire way to catch celebrations is in Downtown Calgary. After all, it’s a shopping, dining, and arts hub, so there’s a lot going on here.
Right in the heart of the city is where most celebrations happen. You’ll catch many people sporting Canada’s colours, watching the cultural performances, strolling through artisan markets, and checking the kid’s events.
You can even catch food specials from the many restaurants in the area. Stay until nighttime and watch the fireworks at 11 pm because downtown is one of the places you can see them.
Pro Tips:
Many places will have free admission to events. Check the City of Calgary’s website to see the offers for a budget-friendly Canada Day celebration.
Check the City’s updates regarding road closures, especially if you’re driving. Some areas in the downtown core may be closed due to the festivities.
Support Indigenous artisan markets
Media credit: authenticallyindigenous
Website: https://www.authenticallyindig.com/
Location: Pop-ups to be announced
Contact: [email protected]
Admission: Depending on the event
On Canada Day, let’s take a different approach and support the Indigenous Peoples. Support the artisan markets and honour the Indigenous Peoples.
Purchase handmade goodies that showcase their culture and history, such as jewellery, clothing, and shoes. You can have a unique piece of art while supporting local businesses.
Most festivals and events in Calgary will have pop-ups from the Indigenous Peoples. Look out for them and support their craft!
Pro Tip:
If you’re looking for a specific artist or need a special order, check the Authentically Indigenous website. Remember to get the artist’s details (shop name and socials) during your visit so you can continue supporting them.
Party it up at the King Eddy
Media credit: kingeddyyyc
Website: https://kingeddy.ca/
Location: 438 9 Ave SE
Contact: [email protected]
When: July 1, 11 am – closing
Admission: Free (on Canada Day only)
Everyone is invited to the swanky King Eddy on Canada Day. There are kid-friendly activities and events the adults will love, from exhibits to tribute shows to rooftop dining with live music!
The moment the event starts (usually at 11 am), you can head to the main stage and listen to live music performances. You and the whole family can visit the exhibits and join the activities that will keep you busy all day.
Then, go to the rooftop for food and drinks while admiring the downtown views and listening to live music. This is also one of the best places to watch the Canada Day fireworks from Stampede Park.
Pro Tip:
Check the schedule for the live performances, especially if there’s an artist you really want to see. King Eddy updates their socials so you’re always in the know.
Ride the rollercoasters at Calaway Park
Media credit: calawaypark
Website: https://www.calawaypark.com/
Location: 245033 Range Rd 33
Contact: (403) 240-3822, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10 am – 7 pm
Admission:
- Regular (3 – 49 years): $51.95 + GST
- 50 Years & Up: $41.95 + GST
- Children 2 and Under: Free
- After 2 pm: $35.95 + GST
Take the whole family and make the drive to Calaway Park. On July 1, head over to the Canada Day Station to get your pins and flags to commemorate the day.
It’s going to be a super fun weekend with the whole family! You can celebrate by riding the roller coasters, playing interactive games, watching live entertainment, and making memories with your kids.
So, pack your bags and bring bottled water, sunscreen, hats, and comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking and running around a lot, so make sure you’re ready!
Pro Tips:
Wear quick-drying clothing if you want to try the water rides. Also, don’t forget to bring a change of clothes in your vehicle in case you get wet and sweaty,
Stick to cashless payments, which Calaway Park encourages. The park doesn’t accept $100 bills.
Meet the animals at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo
Media credit: thecalgaryzoo
Website: https://www.calgaryzoo.com/
Location: 210 St. George’s Drive NE
Contact: (403) 232-9300, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9 am – 5 pm
Admission:
- General (16 – 59): $44.95
- Senior (60+): $42.45
- Child (3 – 15): $31.95
Ticket prices are subject to change day by day
If you’re tired from all the noise and huge crowds, visit Calgary Zoo for a quieter but educational Canada Day celebration. Since this is a family-friendly place, you will find things to do that the kids will enjoy.
It’s a more laid-back celebration since there really aren’t a lot of special activities at the zoo. But you do get to see amazing animals up close, such as gorillas, penguins, mountain goats, cougars, lemurs, and lions.
Pro Tip:
Check the Special Experiences page of the Calgary Zoo website to see what’s happening on Canada Day.
